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Ireland Debt Collection Guide

Filing fees, claim limits, demand letter requirements, court process, service rules, and enforcement options for collecting money in Ireland. Verify local court rules before filing.

Verified
Source checked: 2026-04-29
Official source
Court
District Court - Small Claims Procedure
Filing Fee
EUR 25 (~$27 USD)
Claim Limit
EUR 2,000 (approx $2,200 USD)
Timeline
4-8 weeks

Filing Instructions

  1. 1Apply online at courts.ie or at your local District Court office
  2. 2Pay the EUR 25 fee
  3. 3The Small Claims Registrar contacts the respondent
  4. 4Registrar attempts to negotiate a settlement
  5. 5If no settlement, case goes to District Court hearing

Required Forms

  • - Small Claims Application Form (available online)

Service Rules

The Small Claims Registrar handles all communication with the respondent.

Legal Basis

District Court (Small Claims Procedure) Rules, S.I. No. 583/2009

Enforcement Options

  • - Instalment order
  • - Execution order (sheriff seizure)
  • - Judgment mortgage on property
  • - Examination of debtor

Online Filing Portal

https://www.courts.ie/small-claims-procedure

Important Notes

Very low filing fee and simple process. The Registrar actively tries to settle disputes before they go to hearing. The procedure is limited to eligible consumer/business small claims and does not cover ordinary debt claims such as unpaid rent, loans, or invoices.

Start with a demand letter

Document the claim before escalating to a court or tribunal.

Start Your Case