Short answer: Ontario's Small Claims Court hears claims for money or property worth up to $50,000, a limit that took effect on October 1, 2025. Larger claims go to the Superior Court of Justice, where claims up to $200,000 can use the simplified procedure. In Toronto, Small Claims Court is at 47 Sheppard Avenue East.
Small Claims Court jurisdiction
The Small Claims Court is a branch of the Superior Court of Justice. It hears claims for payment of money or return of personal property worth up to $50,000, not including interest and costs. The limit rose from $35,000 to $50,000 on October 1, 2025. It cannot hear claims about title to land, family law matters or most claims against the Crown.
If your claim is worth slightly more than $50,000, you can choose to give up the excess and sue in Small Claims Court for $50,000 to benefit from the faster, cheaper process.
The Toronto Small Claims Court
In Toronto, Small Claims Court is located at 47 Sheppard Avenue East, Toronto, ON M2N 5N1, near Yonge Street and Sheppard Avenue. Claims can also be filed online through Ontario's court filing services. Many steps, including settlement conferences, may proceed by video.
How a Small Claims case runs
- Plaintiff's claim: filed with the court and served on the defendant.
- Defence: the defendant has 20 days after service to file a defence.
- Settlement conference: a mandatory meeting with a judge to narrow issues and try to settle.
- Trial: if it does not settle, a trial before a deputy judge.
- Enforcement: garnishment, writs of seizure and sale, or examinations of the debtor if a judgment is not paid.
Costs in Small Claims Court
Costs orders are limited. Apart from disbursements, costs generally cannot exceed 15 percent of the amount claimed or the value of the property, unless the court finds a party acted unreasonably. Licensed paralegals can represent parties in Small Claims Court, which can reduce cost.
When the Superior Court of Justice is the right place
- claims over $50,000 that you do not want to reduce
- claims involving land, injunctions or declarations
- complex cases that need full documentary discovery, examinations and professional opinion evidence
- claims up to $200,000 that can use the simplified procedure under Rule 76, with limited discovery and a shorter trial
Before you sue
A clear demand letter resolves many disputes without a claim. Keep the two year limitation period in mind: in most cases you must start a claim within two years of when you discovered the loss.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Small Claims Court limit in Ontario?
$50,000, not including interest and costs, since October 1, 2025.
Where is Small Claims Court in Toronto?
At 47 Sheppard Avenue East, Toronto, ON M2N 5N1.
Do I need a lawyer for Small Claims Court in Ontario?
No. Many people represent themselves, and licensed paralegals can also represent parties. Advice is useful for larger or more complex claims.
How long does Small Claims Court take in Toronto?
It depends on the case and court scheduling. Many claims settle at or after the settlement conference; those that go to trial take longer.
Can I claim more than $50,000 in Small Claims Court?
No, but you can give up the amount over $50,000 and sue for $50,000 to use the simpler process.
How much can I recover in costs in Small Claims Court?
Generally up to 15 percent of the amount claimed, plus disbursements, unless a party behaved unreasonably.
Talk to our team
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For advice on your situation, see our civil litigation lawyer in Toronto page. To book a paid consultation (30 minutes, $150 plus HST, paid when you book), book online or call (647) 271-1646. The phone is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and office meetings are by appointment. Civitas Law is a team of legal professionals under the leadership of lawyer Nasibeh Mehrpouyan, serving clients in English, French, Farsi, Russian and Serbian.