Small Claims Court in Manitoba (2026)
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
$0
Built for your province
- ✓Manitoba small claims process, step by step
- ✓What to bring as evidence
- ✓Blank demand letter template (fill in before filing)
- ✓Filing limits and court locations in Manitoba
Free. General information only, not legal or regulatory advice.
No account needed
Small Claims Package
$14
Demand letter + claim worksheet + filing guide
Answer plain-language questions: we fill everything in and check each detail as you go.
- ✓Everything in free
- ✓Demand letter
- ✓Claim summary worksheet
- ✓Evidence checklist
- ✓Post-judgment collection guide
Helps avoid a rejected claim or missed court deadline
Get it: $14
30-day money-back guarantee · No account needed
Instant download
Built by Nathan, nine years in the Canadian Army, paperwork done the hard way first.
Manitoba Small Claims: Key Facts
Court
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.
Step-by-Step: Filing in Manitoba
- 1
Send a demand letter first.
- 2
Complete the Small Claims Court Claim form.
- 3
File at the courthouse and pay the fee.
- 4
Serve the defendant and file proof of service.
- 5
Attend the hearing with your evidence.
- 6
Enforce the judgment if necessary.
What Happens at the Hearing
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. Claims over $20,000 must go to Court of King's Bench.
Manitoba-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.
Common Questions
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 generally has a 6-year limitation period for contract claims, 2 years for others.
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
Last updated: July 2026
Small claims in other provinces