When can I take a client to court for an unpaid invoice?

Before you claim

The court expects you to try to settle first. Write to the client with the facts: what is owed, why, and how you worked out the sum. In a simple case they should reply within 14 days. The court can take into account whether both sides tried to settle before deciding who pays the costs.

If your client is a sole trader rather than a company, check the court's protocol for debt claims first, as it sets its own steps.

Making the claim

You apply to the county court, online or by post. The court fee depends on how much you claim, plus any interest. If you win, you may get the fee back. Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own processes. GOV.UK also says mediation could be quicker and cheaper than going to court.

After you claim

The client must respond by the date the court gives. If they do not, or do not pay, you can ask the court for a judgment. If they say they do not owe the money, there may be a hearing, and you may be asked to try mediation first.

Keep good records

A claim is much easier with a clear paper trail: the agreed price, proof the work was done, the invoice and every reminder. Xevrion keeps each reminder, the balance it read and every reply with the invoice, so the history is in one place if you ever need it.