Can I file a claim in the Small Claims Tribunal?

What the Law Says

The Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) in Singapore handles minor civil disputes quickly and affordably. While the SCT itself is established under the Small Claims Tribunals Act, consumer-related claims fall under the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA), which empowers consumers to seek redress for unfair practices.

The Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA) supports consumer rights by prohibiting unfair practices by suppliers. Section 6 of the CPFTA states: "A supplier must not engage in any unfair practice in relation to a consumer transaction." This includes misleading representations, unconscionable conduct, or failing to deliver as promised — all of which may form the basis of a claim at the SCT.

Although the CPFTA does not set monetary limits, the SCT’s jurisdiction is governed separately: claims must be for $20,000 or less (or up to $30,000 if referred via a Community Mediation Centre). The claim must also arise from a consumer transaction — meaning it involves a person buying goods or services for personal, domestic, or household use (not business purposes).

You cannot be represented by a lawyer at the SCT, and hearings are informal. The Tribunal aims to resolve claims within weeks, with decisions usually issued within 7–14 days after the hearing.

Statutory Text

A supplier must not engage in any unfair practice in relation to a consumer transaction.

— Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act, s. 6 — Unfair practices

What to Do

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