Small Claims Court limit rises to R30,000 - what it means for consumers and small businesses

From 1 August 2026, individuals in South Africa can bring claims of up to R30,000 in the Small Claims Court, up from the previous limit of R20,000, according to the Department of Justice. The free lawyer directory CallMyLawyer looks at what the change means for consumers, landlords and small businesses owed money.

What the Small Claims Court does

The Small Claims Court lets individuals settle smaller civil claims quickly and cheaply, without lawyers. Typical cases include unpaid loans between people, deposits that were not returned, faulty goods and work that was paid for but not done properly. Lawyers may not represent parties in the Small Claims Court, and the commissioners who hear cases are often practising attorneys who give their time for free.

Who can use it

Only individuals, not companies or close corporations, can bring a claim, although a company can be sued in the Small Claims Court. Before going to court, a claimant usually sends a letter of demand giving the other party at least 14 days to pay.

When you still need an attorney

Claims above R30,000 go to the magistrates' courts: up to R200,000 in the district courts and up to R400,000 in the Regional Courts. Larger claims go to the High Court. Companies collecting debts, claims involving complex contracts, and matters where the other party is likely to defend strongly usually need an attorney. Debts also prescribe, generally after three years for ordinary debts, so waiting too long can cost a claim entirely.

Other routes for consumers

Consumers with complaints about goods and services can also use the Consumer Protection Act, industry ombuds and the National Consumer Commission before going to court.

Guides and local firms

CallMyLawyer's consumer law guide and debt collection guide explain the options in plain language. Town pages show which magistrate's court serves each town, and list local firms with contact details.

This article is general information and not legal advice.

About CallMyLawyer

CallMyLawyer (callmylawyer.co.za) is a free South African lawyer directory. It lists 1,073 law firms in 171 towns across all nine provinces, grouped into 20 practice areas, and 840 of those firms have a researched profile written from their own websites and official sources. The directory does not give legal advice and does not take a share of legal fees. CallMyLawyer is built and run by Mansa Digital (Pty) Ltd, a digital agency based in Roodepoort, Gauteng.