Money Claim Online is an online portal dedicated to starting simple court claims when someone owes you money. It’s a simpler and more convenient way of starting a court claim, but there are a few key things to know before you get started.
Pre-Action Protocols for Making a Money Claim Online
Before you claim money online via Money Claim Online, you need to take a handful of steps to try and settle the dispute. These are known as ‘pre-action protocols’ and they show the court that you have already tried to settle the issue outside of court. Money Claim Online shouldn’t be your first port of call. For example, you should send the debtor a letter before you make a claim, informing them of your plans and giving them a chance to respond. You will also need to ensure that your claim complies with the Ministry of Justice’s rules for ‘pre-action conduct’ before getting started.
When Can You Make a Money Claim Online?
Not everyone can use Money Claim Online, and it largely depends on how much money you are claiming for. You can make a Money Claim Online for fixed amounts of money that are less than £100,000, and if the debtor has an address in England or Wales. If you are claiming for a lesser amount, there is a slightly different way of doing things.
What Do You Need to Claim Money Online?
To claim money online, you need a valid credit or debit card to pay the court fees. You will also need an address in the UK, an email address, access to a computer and access to the internet.
Can Everyone Claim Money Online?
No, not everyone can claim money online. Though a lot of claims can be handled via this process, there are exceptions and not all claims are eligible. You can only use Money Claim Online if you are over the age of 18, and you can’t use it if you are eligible for legal aid. You also can’t use Money Claim Online if you are making a claim for compensation from an accident or injury, or if you are considered a ‘vexatious litigant’ by the court.
You can’t use Money Claim Online to make a claim against everyone, such as those under 18 or anyone who lacks mental capacity. You also can’t use the portal to make a claim against a government department or agency, an individual or company as part of a tribunal award, or for any claims relating to the Tenancy Deposit Scheme.
At Cobra Financial, we understand the stress that comes with being owed money, but Money Claim Online isn’t the only way to pursue a debt. We provide a wide range of debt collection services, such as face-to-face debt collection and debtor tracing. To find out more, get in touch with our helpful team of experts.
