HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) runs the courts and tribunals of
England and Wales. For consumers, its most relevant service is the
small claims process — a relatively simple, low-cost way to
claim money you’re owed when a company won’t pay up.

What it helps with

Most straightforward money claims can be started online through
Money Claim Online. The small claims track is designed to be
used without a solicitor, and court fees depend on how much you’re claiming.
It’s usually a last resort, after you’ve complained and tried an ombudsman or
other free route.

When to turn to it

Consider a court claim when you’re owed money — for faulty goods, poor service
or an unpaid refund — and the trader won’t settle, and there’s no ombudsman
that covers your dispute.

How to reach them

Start a claim via GOV.UK (Money Claim Online). See our step-by-step guide,
how to take a company to the small claims court.

Source

HM Courts & Tribunals Service / GOV.UK (Money Claim Online). Reviewed: 3
September 2026.