Small Claims in Manitoba
Clear, province-specific guidance on small claims procedures, filing limits, fees, and court processes in Manitoba.
Always confirm current rules with the appropriate court in your jurisdiction.
Important Note
This information is for general guidance and is not legal advice. Small claims rules, fees, and claim limits may change. Always confirm curent details with your local court.
Civil claims in Manitoba are handled at Court of King’s Bench locations across the province. Use the official directory below to find your nearest registry and confirm filing details.
Manitoba Court Directory
Response Timelines
Serve Claim: within 30 days
Defendant Reply: 20 days
Hearing: usually scheduled within a few months
Payment: normally 30 days after judgment
No Reply: you can request default judgment
Summary:
Serve → 30 days
Reply → 20 days
Hearing → a few months
Payment → 30 days
Legal Aid & Options
Legal Aid Manitoba (LAM) - Free or low-cost legal support depending on income.
Community Legal Education Association (CLEA) - Free guides, workshops, and a legal info line.
Law Society of Manitoba – Lawyer Referral - 30-minute consultation for a reduced fee.
Pro Bono Canada - Nationwide listing of free or low-cost legal clinics.
Mediation / Settlement
Try to settle early — a written agreement can end the case.
If needed, contact Mediation Services Manitoba for help.
Court Hearing
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Bring all evidence, documents, and any witnesses.
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Explain events in order.
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Be respectful and address the judge as “Your Honour.”
Hearing is intentionally simple and informal.
Judgment
You may get the decision immediately or later by mail.
If you win:-
You receive a Certificate of Decision
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Judge may order costs or reimbursements
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If unpaid, you may enforce
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Where to File
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File at the Court of King’s Bench (Small Claims Division).
Choose the registry closest to:
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Where the defendant lives, or
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Where the problem happened
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No online filing. File in person or by mail.
What to Bring
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Completed Form 76A
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Copies of your evidence
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Filing fee or approved fee waiver
Clerk will:
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Stamp your forms
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Set a hearing date
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Return stamped copies for service
Serving the Defendant
You must serve the defendant within 30 days of filing.
Serve by:
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In-person delivery
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Registered mail
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Process server
Proof of Service
File an Affidavit or Certificate of Service after serving.
Tip: For businesses, use the registered business address (search Corporations Canada or Manitoba Companies Office).-
Send a Demand Letter
Include:
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What happened
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What you want
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A deadline (14–30 days)
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A note that you’ll file a claim if ignored
Send by registered or trackable mail and keep proof.
Gather Evidence
Collect:
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Screenshots
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Receipts or payment records
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Email or message logs
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Timeline of events
Complete the Right Form
Use Form 76A – Small Claim from the Court of King’s Bench.
Include:-
Legal name of business or platform
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Short description of the issue
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Total amount claimed
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In Manitoba, Small Claims cases are processed through the Court of King’s Bench (Small Claims Division).
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You can file against individuals, businesses, or platforms.
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It’s designed for self-represented people — no lawyer required.
Claim Limits
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You can claim up to $20,000 (not including costs or interest).
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If your loss is higher, you may file but must abandon anything over $20,000.
You cannot claim the difference later.
For details
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Courts & Claims
Manitoba Courts – Small Claims Information
Form 76A – Small Claim (PDF)
Court of King’s Bench Rules (Part 10 – Small Claims)
Court Locations
Manitoba Court Locations
Costs & Fees
Court Fees – Manitoba Justice
Court Fees - Manitoba Courts
Legal Help & Education
Legal Aid Manitoba
Community Legal Education Association (CLEA)
Law Society of Manitoba – Lawyer Referral
Pro Bono Canada
Tip:
Bookmark these official government and nonprofit links for the Small Claims process.