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Current small claims court fees in England & Wales for 2026. Full fee table for MCOL and paper claims from £35 to £510, hearing fees, enforcement costs, and fee remission (Help with Fees).
Scales with claim value. Waived if claim settles before hearing.
Free if you apply online via MCOL.
Needed for some enforcement methods.
To enforce a judgment under £5,000.
For judgments over £600 — often more effective.
Fees are set by the Ministry of Justice and last updated in April 2024. MCOL (online) is cheaper than filing by post or at the court counter.
| Claim value | MCOL (online) | Paper / at court |
|---|---|---|
| Up to £300 | £35 | £50 |
| £300.01 – £500 | £50 | £70 |
| £500.01 – £1,000 | £70 | £80 |
| £1,000.01 – £1,500 | £80 | £115 |
| £1,500.01 – £3,000 | £115 | £205 |
| £3,000.01 – £5,000 | £205 | £333 |
| £5,000.01 – £10,000 | £455 | £510 |
Maximum claim value on the small claims track is £10,000 (or £1,000 for personal injury/housing disrepair). Claims above £10,000 go to the fast track with higher court fees.
Other fees to know about
| Item | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hearing fee (if claim defended) | £27–£335 | Scales with claim value. Waived if claim settles before hearing. |
| Default judgment application | £0 | Free if you apply online via MCOL. |
| Certified copy of judgment | £15 | Needed for some enforcement methods. |
| Warrant of control (bailiff) | £83 | To enforce a judgment under £5,000. |
| High Court Writ of Control | £71 + HCEO fees | For judgments over £600 — often more effective. |
Worked example: £2,500 disputed invoice
Issue fee (MCOL, claim £2,500)
Hearing fee (if defended, £2,500 band)
If you win, you recover £285 in court fees on top of your £2,500 claim. If you settle before the hearing, you recover £115.
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.
Income thresholds also apply even without benefits. Check Form EX160 for the current limits — they are updated annually.
Small claims court process
Letter Before Action
Unpaid invoice claims