Is small claims the right move for this unpaid invoice, or a waste of your time?
For sole traders and small firms deciding whether to take a non-paying client to the County Court. Covers thresholds, evidence, likely cost and recovery odds.
Sound familiar?
- “They've ignored three chasers. I don't know if it's worth the bother.”
- “The invoice is £8,000. I don't know if small claims can even handle that.”
- “I haven't got a contract, just emails. Can I still claim?”
- “I've heard it costs more than you get back.”
What this tool does
Runs through the core questions, amount, evidence, debtor status, jurisdiction, and flags whether small claims is a sensible route, a borderline call, or the wrong forum. It gives you the likely issue fee and hearing fee.
How much are you owed?
£
The small claims limit in England and Wales is £10,000.
What the law actually says
- •The small claims track handles most claims up to £10,000 in England and Wales (£5,000 in Scotland). Above that, it's the fast track or multi-track.
- •You must have tried to resolve the dispute before filing. Pre-action conduct matters and the court can penalise you for skipping it.
- •A court judgment is only as good as the debtor's ability to pay. Suing a company with no assets is a hollow win.