Letter Before Small Claims: Free Template and What to Include

If you need to send a formal letter before starting small claims court proceedings, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong letter before small claims should include.

What this letter needs to cover

• Identify the dispute with full background
• Sums claimed and how they are calculated
• In England and Wales, reference the Practice Direction on Pre-Action Conduct
• Give 14 days to settle in full or propose a reasonable resolution
• Say that if it is not resolved, you will make a small claim: in the County Court in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, or using simple procedure in the sheriff court in Scotland

Why a letter before action matters

A letter before action (sometimes called a "letter before claim") is a formal, final notice before starting small claims proceedings — and in many cases, courts expect to see that you sent one before they'll look favourably on your claim. It sets out exactly what you're claiming and why, and gives the other party a genuine last chance to resolve things without going to court.

What to include before you send it

• A clear, factual summary of what happened and why you believe you're owed money
• The exact amount you're claiming, with a breakdown if it covers more than one item
• Copies or references to any supporting evidence — contracts, invoices, correspondence
• A clear deadline, typically 14 days, after which you'll proceed with a court claim

What happens after you send it

If there's no response, or the response is unsatisfactory, you can make a small claim. In England and Wales, you can file it through the online Money Claim service. In Scotland, simple procedure in the sheriff court is for claims of £5,000 or less. In Northern Ireland, the small claims process in the County Court is for claims of not more than £5,000. Courts generally expect claims under this process to reflect genuine attempts at resolution beforehand, so keep a copy of this letter and proof of sending — it may be requested as part of your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum amount for small claims court?
There's no strict minimum, though the process is designed for claims up to £10,000 in England and Wales. In Scotland and Northern Ireland the limit is £5,000.

Do I need a solicitor to bring a small claim?
No — the small claims process is specifically designed to be accessible without legal representation, though you can seek advice if your case is complex.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Postcode]
[Your Phone Number / Email]
[Trader / Company Name]
[Trader Address]
[Date]

Dear [Name of Business Owner or Director],

Subject: LETTER BEFORE ACTION – Claim for £[Amount] – [Reason]

[In England and Wales:] I am writing to you in accordance with the Practice Direction on Pre-Action Conduct and Protocols. This is a formal letter warning you that I intend to start a small claim against you without further notice if the matter detailed below is not resolved.

The claim arises from the following circumstances:
* [State the facts clearly. E.g., On [date], I entered a contract for X. I paid £X. The trader failed to deliver X, breaching our agreement.]

Despite previous correspondence dated [Dates of previous letters/emails], you have failed to resolve this matter. The total amount I am claiming from you is £[Total amount], made up of [breakdown, e.g., £X for the goods and £X for the repair quote].

Please find attached copies of the key evidence supporting my claim: [List documents, e.g., contract, invoices, emails].

I require your payment, or a reasonable proposal to resolve this, within 14 days of the date of this letter. If this is not resolved by [Date 14 days from today], I will make a small claim [in the County Court (England, Wales or Northern Ireland) / using simple procedure in the sheriff court (Scotland)]. I will also ask the court to order you to pay my court fees and interest.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]