Step 1 of 5: Check if you're eligible and choose the right court
You can make a debt claim if someone owes you money and has failed to pay it back. You don’t need a solicitor to apply, but legal advice may help you understand your options.
Which court should I use?
- District Court: for claims up to €15,000
- Circuit Court: for claims between €15,000 and €75,000
If your debt is over €75,000, you must apply to the High Court. This guide does not cover High Court applications.
Step 2 of 5: Complete the claim form
You must complete the correct Claim Notice form, depending on the court you're applying to.
What form do I use?
- District Court: complete Form 53A – Claim Notice under the District Court Rules
- Circuit Court: complete Civil Bill – Claim under the Circuit Court Rules
Include the following in your application:
- Your full contact details
- The name and address of the person or business who owes you money (the respondent)
- The amount owed and the reason for the claim
- Details of any attempts you made to get the money back
Step 3 of 5: Submit and serve your claim
Where to submit
Send your completed forms to the District or Circuit Court office where:
- You live or work
- Or where the respondent lives or works
Serving your claim
You must also serve the documents on the respondent. You can do this by:
- Registered post
- Personal delivery
- Through their solicitor (if agreed)
Keep proof of service (such as a certificate of postage or affidavit).
Step 4 of 5: After you submit your claim
After the respondent is served, they can choose to:
- Pay the amount in full – ending the case
- Dispute the claim – by filing a defence within a set period
- Do nothing – in which case you can apply for judgment in default
If a defence is filed
If the respondent disputes the claim, the court may set a date for a hearing where both sides can present evidence.
