About Allocation Questionnaires
The N149/N150/N151 forms are sent to both parties if the claim is going to be disputed. The court uses the filled in forms to determine how the case should be allocated (i.e. which track and where the case should be heard).
- Determines case management track
- Sent to all parties in disputed cases
- Helps court decide hearing location
- Must be completed within deadline
Need Help Completing? Details on how to fill in allocation questionnaires are provided in our defended claims guide. View Defended Claims Guide
Understanding Court Tracks
The court system uses three different tracks to manage cases based on their value and complexity. Your allocation questionnaire response helps the court decide which track is most appropriate:
- Small Claims Track — Up to £10,000. Simple claims, informal hearings, limited costs. Form: N149A
- Fast Track — £10,000 - £25,000. Standard procedure, fixed trial timetable. Form: N149B
- Multi-Track — Over £25,000. Complex cases, flexible case management. Form: N149C
When You'll Receive an Allocation Questionnaire
- After a defence is filed: When the defendant disputes the claim
- Both parties receive forms: Claimant and defendant both complete questionnaires
- Deadline for return: You must return the form by the date specified by the court
- Fee may be required: For claims over £1,500, the claimant may need to pay an allocation fee
Need to start a claim first?
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Start My ClaimDownload Allocation Forms
The links below will take you to the official forms on GOV.UK. The specific form you receive depends on which track the court proposes for your case:
- Form N149A — Notice of proposed allocation to the small claims track. For claims up to £10,000. Download N149A
- Form N149B — Notice of proposed allocation to the fast track. For claims between £10,000 and £25,000. Download N149B
- Form N149C — Notice of proposed allocation to the multi-track. For complex claims over £25,000. Download N149C
What to Include in Your Response
Essential Information:
- Case details and your role (claimant/defendant)
- Witnesses you intend to call (if any)
- Expert evidence you want to use
- Whether you want a hearing or paper-only decision
- Preferred location for hearings
- Any disabilities or special requirements
Important Considerations:
- Be honest about case complexity
- Consider costs implications of different tracks
- Think about time and travel for hearings
- Submit within the court's deadline
- Keep copies of all documents
What Happens After Submission
After both parties return their allocation questionnaires, the court will:
Review all responses and case details
The court considers both parties' views on allocation.
Decide on the appropriate track for your case
The judge makes the final allocation decision.
Issue directions for how the case will proceed
Both parties receive instructions on next steps.
Set dates for any hearings or deadlines
The court timetable is established.
Form N149A: Small Claims Track Allocation
The N149A is the most common allocation questionnaire for JustClaim users. If your claim is under £10,000, you will almost certainly receive an N149A form. This notice tells you the court proposes to allocate your case to the small claims track.
What the N149A Includes:
Proposed track allocation — confirmation your case is proposed for small claims
Mediation referral — automatic offer of free telephone mediation through HMCTS
Response deadline — date by which you must return the form
Hearing preferences — your preferred court location and available dates
Free Mediation Through N149A: The N149A includes an automatic referral to the Small Claims Mediation Service. This is a free, one-hour telephone mediation session provided by HMCTS. You should seriously consider accepting mediation — over 60% of mediated small claims reach a settlement without needing a hearing. If mediation is unsuccessful, your case simply continues to a hearing. There is no disadvantage to trying mediation first.