Small Claims Court in Manitoba (2026)
This page is the free Manitoba guide. No sign-in. Read on, or take the checklist as a PDF.
Facts checked October 2026 · See what changed · How we check
File a claim for up to $20,000 in Manitoba without a lawyer. Here's exactly what to do, step by step.
Manitoba small claims guide
Keep it with the rest. This one files behind tab 12 of the Home File.
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Manitoba Small Claims: Key Facts
Open this section ↓↑ Close this sectionCourt
Manitoba Small Claims Court (Court of King's Bench)
Claim limit
$20,000: Manitoba Small Claims Court limit is $20,000 (excluding interest and costs), effective January 1, 2025.
Filing fee
$75 for claims up to and including $5,000; $100 for claims over $5,000
Starting form
Form 76A (Small Claim)
How to file
File a Claim in the Small Claims Court at the courthouse. The clerk will assign a hearing date. Claimant serves the defendant.
Serving the defendant
Personal service is required. If personal service is not possible, apply to the court for an order for substituted service.
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Step-by-Step: Filing in Manitoba
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Send a demand letter first.
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Complete the Small Claims Court Claim form.
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File at the courthouse and pay the fee.
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Serve the defendant and file proof of service.
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Attend the hearing with your evidence.
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Enforce the judgment if necessary.
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What Happens at the Hearing
Hearing before a judge or court officer.Open this section ↓Hearing before a judge or court officer. Both parties present their case informally. Decision is usually given at the end of the hearing or in writing shortly after.
After You Win: Collecting Your Judgment
After judgment: file a Writ of Execution to have property seized and sold, or apply for a garnishment order for wages or bank accounts.
If the Defendant Counterclaims
Defendant can file a counterclaim for related matters. A counterclaim above the court's limit goes to the higher court; check the rules.
↑ Close this sectionManitoba-specific things to know
- •Manitoba's $20,000 limit is lower than most provinces.
- •2-year limitation period under the Limitations Act, C.C.S.M. c. L150 (Limitation of Actions Act 2010). The former 6-year period for contracts was replaced. Most civil claims must be filed within 2 years of discovering the claim.
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Common Questions
Do I need a lawyer for small claims in Manitoba?Open this section ↓Do I need a lawyer for small claims in Manitoba?
No. Small Claims Court is designed for self-represented litigants. You may bring a lawyer if you choose, but it's usually not cost-effective for smaller claims. Most people represent themselves.
What if my claim is more than $20,000?
You can either waive the amount above $20,000 and file in Small Claims Court, or file in a higher court (Superior/Queen's Bench/Court of King's Bench) where lawyers are typically needed and the process is more formal and expensive.
How long do I have to file? (Limitation period)
Manitoba has a single basic limitation period of 2 years from the day a claim is discovered, under The Limitations Act in force since 30 September 2022.
What if the defendant doesn't show up?
If the defendant was properly served and doesn't appear, the court will typically proceed and you may receive a default judgment in your favour. You still need to present your evidence.
Official sources
Facts checked October 2026
↑ Close this sectionSmall claims in other provinces
Done for you
Small Claims Package$14
- Demand letter
- Claim summary worksheet
- Evidence checklist
- Post-judgment collection guide
Demand letter + claim worksheet + filing guide
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Informational guide only. Guidepost is not a law firm. This guide explains the typical process and is not legal advice. Requirements can change. Verify current rules with the relevant government authority or a qualified professional before you act.