What is the maximum claim allowed in small claims court?

As of AM No. 08-8-7-SC (as amended in 2022), the small claims limit is ₱400,000 in the Metropolitan Trial Courts (MeTC) and Municipal Trial Courts in Cities (MTCC). This covers principal amount plus interest and fees as a combined total. Claims above ₱400,000 require the Regional Trial Court and can involve lawyers.

Do I need a lawyer for small claims?

No. One of the core features of small claims is that lawyers are not allowed to appear for either party at the hearing. You represent yourself. You may consult a lawyer beforehand, but they cannot appear in court with you. This equalizes power between individuals and companies.

What types of cases can I file in small claims court?

Small claims covers purely civil money claims: unpaid loans or credits, overpaid fees or interest you want refunded, wrongful charges by a company, damages from contract breach, security deposits not returned, and similar money disputes. It does not cover criminal cases, property disputes over title, or injunctions.

How much does it cost to file?

Filing fees are based on the claim amount, set by the Supreme Court. Approximate fees as of 2024: ₱1,000–₱1,500 for claims up to ₱100,000; ₱2,000–₱3,000 for claims up to ₱400,000. Indigent litigants may apply for fee waiver. The small claims form (SC Form No. 1-SCC) is available free at the courthouse.

Where do I file? Which court has jurisdiction?

File at the Metropolitan Trial Court (MeTC) or Municipal Trial Court in Cities (MTCC) where: (1) the defendant (company) has its principal place of business, OR (2) where you reside. For Manila companies (like GMS PH in Makati or MLhuillier headquarters), you can file at the Makati MeTC or your nearest court.

How long does a small claims case take?

Small claims is designed for speed. After filing, the court schedules a hearing typically within 30 days. The entire case is resolved in one hearing (same-day decision) — the judge issues the ruling immediately. No appeals on questions of fact are allowed, making this truly final. Average total time: 30–60 days from filing to judgment.

What documents do I need to prepare?

Required: SC Form No. 1-SCC (Statement of Claim, available at court), two valid government IDs, and all evidence: original contract/agreement, payment receipts, demand letters you sent, written evidence of the dispute (emails, text messages printed), and any other supporting documents. Organize chronologically.

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Know Your Rights

Small Claims Court Philippines: How to File a ₱400k Claim

The Philippine Small Claims Court (AM No. 08-8-7-SC) lets ordinary citizens sue for money — up to ₱400,000 — without a lawyer, typically resolved in one hearing. It's the fastest, cheapest way to recover money from a company.

This is informational only, not legal advice. Consult a lawyer for your specific situation. · Last revised: 2026-05-03

Ano ang gagawin MO NGAYON / What to Do TODAY

1
Calculate your claim and gather evidence
Use the Damages Calculator to total: principal overcharge + interest computed from payment date + moral damages if applicable. Gather: the original contract, all receipts, demand letters you sent, their responses (or lack thereof), and any other documentary evidence. Organize by date.
2
Send a demand letter first
Courts expect you to have tried to resolve the dispute first. Send a formal demand letter (use our Letter Builder) by registered mail. Give the company 10–15 days to respond. Their failure to act is evidence of bad faith and strengthens your case. Keep the postal tracking receipt.
3
File SC Form No. 1-SCC at your nearest trial court
Go to the clerk of court of the MeTC or MTCC. Get SC Form No. 1-SCC (free). Fill it out clearly: your name and address (plaintiff), company name and registered address (defendant), factual narrative, amount claimed, and list of attachments. File with payment of docket fees. Receive a hearing date — prepare to appear in person.

Mga Tanong at Sagot / Frequently Asked Questions

Legal Basis / Mga Batas at Regulasyon

Mga Tool / Related Tools

Damages Calculator →Build a Demand Letter →Kill-Switch GPS Rights →Remittance Overcharge Rights →

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Consult a lawyer for your specific situation. Content is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Citations link to official Philippine government sources.