Small Claims & Court Money Limits
Small Claims & Court Money Limits
Chasing an unpaid invoice in South Africa runs up a ladder of courts, each with a money ceiling. Which court hears which size of claim, and what the cheap DIY option can and cannot do.
The court ladder by claim size
| Small Claims Court | Up to R20,000 |
| District Magistrates' Court | R20,001 to R200,000 |
| Regional Magistrates' Court | Up to R400,000 |
| High Court | Above R400,000 |
Small Claims Court -- the DIY option
| Cost and lawyers | Roughly R100 to file; no lawyers allowed for either side; a commissioner hears it informally |
| Who may sue | Natural persons only -- a Pty Ltd or CC cannot bring a claim here (but can be sued here); a company's route is the Magistrates' Court |
| Over the limit? | If your claim is just over, you may abandon the excess and claim R20,000 here -- you permanently give up the difference but may get paid sooner |
| Heads-up | An increase to R50,000 is under active consultation -- check the current limit before you file |
Reference only -- not legal advice. Send a formal letter of demand first; it is a prerequisite for the Small Claims Court and it starts interest running. Confirm the current Small Claims limit at justice.gov.za before you file.
Sources: Small Claims Courts Act / Department of Justice · Magistrates' Courts Act · justice.gov.za
SiteKiln provides general guidance only. This is not legal, tax, financial or professional advice. Always verify information and seek professional advice if unsure. © SiteKiln 2026