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Free small claims court tools for Canada and the US

Find out whether you can sue, how much you can claim, when your deadline expires, and exactly how to file and collect. Eleven practical tools, written in plain English and updated for 2026.

11free tools
71+cities & courts
$50,000Ontario claim limit

More than 60% of small claims plaintiffs represent themselves, yet most people walk in unprepared. The tools below remove the guesswork: each one answers a single question and links to the next logical step.

Start here

Can I Sue?Check if your dispute qualifies for small claims court.Claim LimitsDollar limits for every province and US state.Deadline CalculatorFind your limitation deadline before it expires.Is It Worth Suing?Estimate your net recovery after fees and time.Demand LetterGenerate a free demand letter in two minutes.How to FileStep-by-step filing guide by jurisdiction.Evidence ChecklistBuild a court-ready evidence package.Court ScriptKnow exactly what to say on hearing day.Being Sued?What to do if a claim is filed against you.After You WinCollect your judgment when they will not pay.Legal AidFree and low-cost help near you.

How small claims court works

Small claims court handles money disputes, such as unpaid invoices, security-deposit returns, defective work, minor car accidents and consumer complaints, up to a fixed dollar ceiling. You file a claim, the court serves the other party, the parties exchange evidence, and a judge or adjudicator decides at a short hearing. The process is built so you do not need a lawyer.

The single most common reason people lose is not a weak case but a missed step: filing in the wrong court, blowing the limitation deadline, or showing up without organised evidence. Work through the tools in order and you will avoid all three.

Recommended order

  1. Can I Sue? Confirm your dispute belongs in small claims court.
  2. Claim Limits. Check the dollar ceiling where you live.
  3. Deadline Calculator. Make sure you are still in time.
  4. Is It Worth Suing? Weigh the realistic net recovery.
  5. Demand Letter. Try to settle before you file.
  6. How to File & Evidence Checklist. Prepare your case.
  7. Court Script & After You Win. Present and collect.

Frequently asked questions

What is small claims court?

Small claims court is a simplified branch of the civil court system for resolving money disputes below a set dollar limit, usually without a lawyer. Procedures are streamlined, filing fees are low, and hearings are designed so ordinary people can represent themselves.

How much does it cost to file a small claims case?

Filing fees typically range from about $25 to $250 depending on the jurisdiction and the amount claimed. In Ontario the plaintiff's claim fee is roughly $108 to $215; most US states charge $30 to $100. The losing side can often be ordered to repay your filing fee.

Do I need a lawyer for small claims court?

No. Small claims court is specifically designed for self-represented litigants. Many jurisdictions restrict or discourage lawyers in the courtroom. Our free tools walk you through each step, but they are general information, not legal advice.

How long does a small claims case take?

Most cases resolve in three to nine months. Many settle before the hearing once a defendant receives a formal claim. Contested cases that go to a full hearing take longer, especially in busy urban courts.

Is LegalClaimsCourt free?

Yes. Every calculator, generator and guide on this site is free to use. We are supported by advertising and by optional affiliate links to legal services you are free to ignore.