Ontario Small Claims Court Limit Increases to $50,000;

What you need to know!

Written By:  Daniela Romeo

Posted: October 29, 2025   3 minute read

There’s big news for anyone considering legal action in Ontario.

As of October 1, 2025, the Small Claims Court monetary limit has increased from $35,000 to $50,000. This change means that more individuals, landlords, tenants, and small business owners can now bring or defend claims in Small Claims Court, without having to go through the more expensive and time-consuming Superior Court of Justice.

It’s a positive step toward making justice more accessible and affordable for everyone in Ontario!

Why the $50,000 Limit Matters

The Small Claims Court is designed to help people resolve legal disputes quickly and cost-effectively.
With the new $50,000 limit, even more matters can be heard in this simplified court setting — one that’s easier to navigate and less intimidating than higher courts.

Common types of Small Claims matters include:

• Contract or service disputes
• Property damage or repair claims
• Construction or renovation disagreements
• Unpaid invoices or loans
• Business-to-business or consumer disputes
• 
  

Additionally, the appeal threshold increased from $3,500 to $5,000, helping reduce unnecessary appeals and keeping more cases within the Small Claims system.

KEEP IN MIND: While the new limit expands what can be claimed, it’s always a good idea to get legal advice before starting a claim to ensure your matter fits within the Small Claims Court’s jurisdiction.

A Step Forward for Access to Justice

Taking legal action can be overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure where to start or worried about legal costs. By increasing the Small Claims Court limit to $50,000, the province has made it easier for people to resolve disputes affordably and efficiently.

Licensed paralegals can now represent clients in claims up to $50,000!

At FullForce Legal Services LLP, we help clients across Ontario navigate the Small Claims Court process from start to finish. Whether you’re filing a claim or defending one, we’re here to make the process clear, approachable, and manageable every step of the way.

Impact on Landlords and Tenants

While the main focus is on Small Claims Court, this change also benefits the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). This is because Small Claims Court handles the enforcement of LTB monetary orders, therefore, landlords and tenants can now enforce larger awards — up to $50,000.

This improvement streamlines enforcement and ensures greater access to justice for both parties.

June 2025 Update: Trial Management Conferences Introduced

Although not the only change that happened in June 2025, the Rules of the Small Claims Court (O. Reg. 258/98) now includes Rule 16.1 – Trial Management Conferences (TMCs).

What Is a Trial Management Conference?

Once a trial date is requested, the court may now direct both parties to attend a Trial Management Conference with a judge. The goal is to make sure both sides are ready for trial and to encourage early resolution.

During this Trial Management Conference, the parties and their representatives will:

• Exchange disclosure and evidence
• Identify or narrow issues in dispute
• Discuss settlement possibilities
• Review scheduling and timelines

If someone doesn’t attend or isn’t prepared, the court can impose cost consequences or other penalties. And like Settlement Conferences, the judge who presides over the TMC won’t be the same judge at trial, ensuring fairness for everyone involved.

Why This Update Matters

Trial Management Conferences are designed to make the process more organized, transparent, and efficient. They are designed to encourage early resolution, reduce unnecessary delays, and help both sides come to court prepared.

For self-represented litigants, this update provides clearer structure and direction from filing to trial, helping cases move forward smoothly and fairly.

What These Changes Mean for You

Whether you’re a homeowner, tenant, contractor, or small business owner, these updates can make a real difference in how your case moves through the system.

Here’s what to expect:

• Higher claim limit: You can now bring or defend claims up to $50,000 in Small Claims Court.
• Simplified process: The Court remains a faster, more accessible option than higher courts.
• Trial preparation: Be ready to attend a Trial Management Conference and organize your documents early.
• Affordable representation: Licensed paralegals can now represent you in claims up to $50,000.

The Bottom Line

The increase to $50,000 and the introduction of Trial Management Conferences are noticeable changes to Ontario’s Small Claims Court system. These changes have been implemented to help more people resolve disputes faster, with less cost and stress.

At FullForce Legal Services LLP, we’re ready to help you navigate these updates with confidence.
Whether you’re looking to start a claim, defend one, or enforce a Landlord and Tenant Board order, our experienced paralegals are here to provide clear, professional guidance.

Just Solutions ~ No Surprises.

We proudly represent clients across Ontario in Small Claims Court and Landlord-Tenant matters, helping you resolve disputes efficiently, affordably, and with confidence.

📞For more information about the Small Claims Court and to learn how our team can help you move forward - with clarity, confidence and FullForce - Reach out to us today!

Disclaimer: The content of this article/blog are provided as a general introduction and overview of a legal topic only. This article/blog does not provide legal or other professional advice, nor does it express any opinion. It is recommended to consult a legal professional before making decisions based on your specific circumstances. Additionally, this does not establish a paralegal-client relationship, only upon contacting us and signing a Retainer Agreement with FullForce Legal Services LLP.

Just Solutions - No Surprises