If you checked your province's small claims limit even a year or two ago, the number you remember is probably out of date. Five provinces have raised theirs recently.
What's Actually Happening
Provincial small claims limits have moved sharply upward in the past three years, mostly to keep pace with inflation and reduce pressure on higher courts. Ontario's jump is the most recent — from $35,000 to $50,000, effective October 1, 2025.
The Full 2026 Table
| Province | Limit |
|---|---|
| Alberta | $100,000 |
| Ontario | $50,000 |
| Saskatchewan | $50,000 |
| British Columbia | $5,000 / $35,000* |
| Manitoba | $20,000 |
| Quebec | $15,000 |
*BC splits by amount: claims up to $5,000 go through the online Civil Resolution Tribunal; $5,001–$35,000 go to Provincial Court.
What Changed Recently
- Alberta — raised to $100,000 in August 2023, from $50,000.
- Saskatchewan — raised to $50,000 effective April 1, 2024.
- Manitoba — raised to $20,000 effective January 1, 2025.
- Ontario — raised to $50,000 effective October 1, 2025, from $35,000.
If Your Claim Is Above the Limit
You can still file in small claims court for the maximum amount and formally abandon the excess, or proceed in a higher court instead. Either way, most courts expect a written demand letter to the other side first.
Not sure if small claims is your next step, or need the demand letter drafted first? Ask Asya.
Start With Asya Now →Sources & Verification
Limits in this article are drawn from each province's official court sources, including:
- Ontario — Small Claims Court
- Alberta Court of Justice — Civil Claims
- Saskatchewan — Small Claims
- Manitoba — Small Claims Court
Learn more about how ComplaintCA verifies information on our About page.