FAQ•ON & BC
What is the maximum I can claim?
Monetary limits for small claims in Ontario and British Columbia.
Ontario: The Small Claims Court can award up to $35,000, plus interest and costs. If you are owed more, you can abandon the excess to stay in Small Claims Court, or sue in the Superior Court of Justice.
British Columbia: The Civil Resolution Tribunal handles claims up to $5,000. The Provincial Court (Small Claims) handles claims from $5,001 to $35,000. Claims above $35,000 belong in the BC Supreme Court, or you may abandon the excess.
Abandoning the excess is often the economically rational choice once you account for the higher costs, longer timelines, and cost-award exposure of the superior courts.