How much are you claiming?
Filing Fee
£80
Pay this when you submit your claim
Hearing Fee (if defended)
£115
Only payable if the defendant files a defence
Maximum Total
£195
Filing + hearing fee worst case
Your Net Cost If You Win
£0
Defendant reimburses all fees on judgment
Your claim (£1,500) falls in the £1,000–1,500 band. 94% of small claims result in default judgment — the defendant doesn't respond and you win without a hearing, paying only the filing fee.
Do You Qualify for Help with Fees?
The Help with Fees scheme (form EX160) can reduce or waive your court fees entirely. Answer three quick questions to check your eligibility.
1. Do you receive any of these benefits? (Universal Credit, Income Support, JSA, ESA, Pension Credit, Legal Aid)
2. Is your gross monthly income below £1,500?
3. Do you have savings or investments below £3,000?
Understanding Your Fees
Filing fee (always)
Paid upfront when you issue the claim. Goes to HMCTS. Ranges from £35 to £455 depending on claim size.
Hearing fee (if defended)
Only payable if the defendant files a defence and a hearing is listed. 94% of claims never reach this stage.
You win: defendant pays
The court orders the defendant to reimburse both your filing fee and hearing fee on top of the judgment amount.
Not recoverable even if you win
Solicitor fees, expert reports (without court permission), travel, time off work, printing costs.
Full 2025 Fee Table
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee | Hearing Fee | Max Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to £300 | £35 | £27 | £62 |
| £300.01 – £500 | £50 | £55 | £105 |
| £500.01 – £1,000 | £70 | £80 | £150 |
| £1,000.01 – £1,500 | £80 | £115 | £195 |
| £1,500.01 – £3,000 | £115 | £115 | £230 |
| £3,000.01 – £5,000 | £205 | £115 | £320 |
| £5,000.01 – £10,000 | £455 | £115 | £570 |
Ready to file your claim?
JustClaim generates your letter before action and N1 court documents in minutes. Court fee of £80 — recovered from the defendant if you win.
Start My Claim — £80 court fee