Small claims court fees: exactly what you’ll pay
How much does it cost to sue someone in the small claims court? Full 2026 fee table (£35–£455), hearing fees, and enforcement costs — the same whether you file online or by post.
Scales with claim value. Not due if settlement is before the payment deadline; non-refundable once paid.
Free if you apply online via MCOL.
An extra 50p per page after the first 10.
To enforce a judgment under £5,000.
For eligible judgments of £600 or more; Consumer Credit Act judgments are excluded.
Fees are set by the Ministry of Justice on the EX50 schedule. The fee is exactly the same whether you file online (MCOL / Online Civil Money Claims) or on paper — there is no paper surcharge.
| Claim value | Fee |
|---|---|
| Up to £300 | |
| £300.01 – £500 | |
| £500.01 – £1,000 | |
| £1,000.01 – £1,500 | |
| £1,500.01 – £3,000 | |
| £3,000.01 – £5,000 | |
| £5,000.01 – £10,000 |
The normal small-claims limit is £10,000, excluding interest and costs. Special limits apply to personal injury and housing-repair claims; personal injury is not governed by a single £1,000 limit. Track allocation also depends on the type and complexity of the claim. See CPR 26.9–26.13.
Other fees to know about
| Item | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hearing fee (if claim defended) | Scales with claim value. Not due if settlement is before the payment deadline; non-refundable once paid. | |
| Default judgment application | £0 | Free if you apply online via MCOL. |
| Court document copy (up to 10 pages) | £14 | An extra 50p per page after the first 10. |
| Warrant of control (bailiff) | £96 | To enforce a judgment under £5,000. |
| High Court Writ of Control | £82 + HCEO fees | For eligible judgments of £600 or more; Consumer Credit Act judgments are excluded. |
Worked example: £2,500 disputed invoice
Issue fee (online or paper, claim £2,500)
Hearing fee (if defended, £2,500 band)
If the court awards your paid fees, these may be added to the judgment. A settlement does not automatically reimburse them: agree who pays the issue fee and any hearing fee already paid. The hearing fee is non-refundable.
Help with Fees (fee remission)
If you receive means-tested benefits or have a low income, you may be entitled to a full or partial fee waiver. Apply using Form EX160 before paying. You'll need to provide evidence of your income and benefits.
Savings limits apply, and Universal Credit has an earnings condition. You may also qualify on low income without receiving a listed benefit. Check the current EX160 guidance before applying.
Small claims court process
Fees and timescales 2026 (official figures)
Letter Before Action
Unpaid invoice claims