Recover an unpaid invoice through small claims

If polite reminders have failed, the small claims process can be a practical way for a sole trader to recover an unpaid invoice. This guide covers the general steps in England and Wales; Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own procedures. Court fees and rules change, so check current information on GOV.UK and consider getting advice before you start.

Step by step

1. Check your evidence

   Gather the quote, agreed terms, invoice, proof the work was done and all correspondence. Make sure the amount is correct and the debt is genuinely due. Weak or incomplete evidence can undermine your claim.