Ontario Small Claims Court Limit Increasing to $50,000 – What It Means for You
Big news for individuals and small businesses seeking justice without the high costs of Superior Court: as of October 1, 2025, the monetary limit for Ontario’s Small Claims Court will increase from $35,000 to $50,000.
This change is part of broader efforts to improve access to justice and reduce the burden on higher courts. It means more legal disputes — including those involving unpaid invoices, contract breaches, property damage, and wrongful dismissals — can now be handled through a faster and more affordable court process.
Key Highlights:
New Limit: $50,000 per plaintiff (up from $35,000)
Appeal Threshold: Only judgments over $5,000 (previously $3,500) can be appealed to the Divisional Court
Effective Date: October 1, 2025
For those with claims between $35,000 and $50,000, this change offers a strategic advantage — less procedural complexity, reduced legal fees, and quicker resolution timelines. If you already have a case in progress, in many situations you may be able to amend your claim once the new limit takes effect.
If you have a dispute and are unsure whether to file now or wait until the new rules kick in, contact us at Hosseini & Hosseini LLP for tailored legal advice. We’ll help you assess your options and protect your rights within the appropriate forum.
