Small Claims Court Forms: What Each One Is For
Small Claims Court uses numbered forms for almost every step. Using the right one at the right time saves delay. Always download the current version from the Ontario Court Forms website, because forms are updated.
- Form 7A starts a claim and Form 9A is the defence. Form 10A is a defendant's claim against someone else.
- Proof that documents were served, by Form 8A or 8B, is needed before many next steps.
- Forms 13A, 14A, 15A and 15B cover settlement conferences, offers to settle and motions.
- Enforcement uses forms such as 20A (writ of seizure and sale) and 20H (notice of examination).
Starting and answering a claim
- Form 7A, Plaintiff's Claim: the document that starts the case. It names the parties, says what happened and states the amount claimed.
- Form 9A, Defence: the defendant's answer, due within the time on the claim. It sets out what is disputed and why.
- Form 10A, Defendant's Claim: lets a defendant make a claim against the plaintiff, or against someone else who may be responsible.
Proving service
- Form 8A, Affidavit of Service: sworn proof of how and when a document was served.
- Form 8B, Certificate of Service: a shorter form that a lawyer or licensed paralegal can sign in place of an affidavit.
Moving the case along
- Form 13A, Notice of Settlement Conference: sets a meeting with a judge to try to resolve the case and prepare for trial.
- Form 14A, Offer to Settle: a formal offer that can affect costs if the case does not settle.
- Form 15A, Notice of Motion and Supporting Affidavit: asks the court for an order about a step in the case. Form 15B is the responding affidavit.
- Form 18A, Summons to Witness: requires a person to attend and testify.
After judgment
- Form 20A, Writ of Seizure and Sale: lets a bailiff seize and sell a debtor's property to pay the judgment.
- Form 20H, Notice of Examination: requires the debtor to attend and answer questions about income and assets.
- Garnishment forms are used to direct an employer, bank or other payor to send money to the court.
Tips for using the forms
- Download the current forms from the Ontario Court Forms website, not from an old copy.
- Fill each one in completely and keep a copy of everything you file or serve.
- Note the deadline for each step as soon as you receive a form.
- If a form's instructions say a fee applies, pay it with the filing to avoid delay.
Common questions
Where do I file the forms?
At the Small Claims Court location handling your case, in person, by mail or online where that is available.
What if I use the wrong form?
The court office may refuse it or send it back, which can cost days. If you are not sure, ask the clerk or a licensed paralegal.
This guide is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.
Not sure where you stand? A licensed paralegal can look at your documents and tell you your options.
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