File Small Claims in Nunavut Online: Email Filing Process Explained

If you are searching for an online portal to file a small claim in Nunavut, it does not exist — the territory has not launched an automated e-filing system. But you can file remotely by email, which is the next best thing and is how most claimants outside Iqaluit submit their paperwork.

The Email Filing Process

The Civil Registry of the Nunavut Court of Justice accepts document submissions by email at [email protected]. Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Prepare your documents. Complete the Notice of Claim form, write out the factual basis of your dispute and the amount you are claiming, and gather your supporting documents (contract, invoices, receipts, photographs, demand letter).

2. Convert everything to PDF. The Registry requires PDF format. Scan handwritten forms or save digital documents as PDFs. Name your files clearly — "Notice-of-Claim.pdf," "Invoice-Evidence.pdf" — so the Registry can process them efficiently.

3. Email to [email protected]. Attach all your PDFs in a single email. In the subject line, write something like "Small Claims Filing — [Your Name] v. [Defendant Name]." In the body, include your full name, phone number, mailing address, and a note that you need to pay the filing fee by phone.

4. Pay the $75 fee by phone. Call the Civil Registry at (867) 975-6102 or toll-free 1-866-286-0546 during business hours (Monday–Friday, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Eastern Time) to process the payment by credit card.

5. Receive your stamped copy. The Registry reviews your documents, assigns a civil file number, applies the court seal, and emails the stamped copy back to you. This stamped copy is your proof that the claim has been officially issued.

Important Timing Detail

Your claim is not officially filed until the Registry accepts it, stamps it, and assigns a file number. The date on the court seal — not the date you sent the email — is what counts for limitation period purposes.

Processing times can vary. If your limitation period is close, contact the Registry promptly about filing and confirm the date your claim is issued; an email send date is not the issue date.

What You Cannot Do Online

• You cannot serve the defendant by email (unless the court grants a substituted service order specifically allowing it). Service of the initial Notice of Claim must go through the Sheriff's Office.
• You cannot attend hearings online without prior court approval. Teleconference or videoconference hearings are available but must be requested through the Registry.
• You cannot check your case status online. Call the Registry for updates on your file.

The Alternative: Mail Filing

If email is not practical (large document packages, poor internet in your community), you can mail your signed documents to the address below. Call the Civil Registry to arrange payment of the $75 filing fee and confirm the accepted method for mail filings:

Civil Registry, Nunavut Court of Justice
P.O. Box 297
Iqaluit, NU X0A 0H0

The Registry mails back your stamped copy. Allow extra time for Canada Post delivery to and from remote communities.

Keep Your Filing Organized

Whether you file by email or mail, keep a copy of everything you send — the Notice of Claim, every attachment, and proof of the fee payment (credit card statement or money order receipt). The Making a Small Claim in Nunavut guide includes a filing checklist to make sure nothing is missing before you hit send.

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