Problems and disputes in Alberta: consumer complaints, small claims, workplace injury and legal aid

Who to contact in Alberta for a problem with a business, an unpaid debt, a workplace injury or when you cannot afford a lawyer.

What to do and who to contact when something goes wrong in Alberta. Each section gives the usual order of steps, then the official body and page. Rent disputes are on the renting page.

A problem with a business (consumer complaint)

Write to the business first, say what happened and what you want, and keep copies. If you paid by credit card you can ask the issuer about a chargeback. Then complain to the regulator.

Consumer Investigations Unit (Service Alberta). Complaints must be about a specific incident involving you personally, in writing, through the online portal or by mail, fax, email or in person.

Official page: consumer complaints ↗

Money owed to you or damage caused (small claims)

Small claims court is a last resort. Send a written demand with a deadline, keep proof of delivery, and check the time limit to sue and the maximum amount in your province: both differ and have changed recently.

Alberta Court of Justice, Civil Division. Send a written demand letter first, then file a Civil Claim at any Court of Justice courthouse and serve the defendant.

Official page: small claims ↗

Hurt at work (workers' compensation)

Get medical attention, tell your employer straight away and report to the compensation board: deadlines differ by province and being late can cost you benefits. In several provinces it is illegal for an employer to ask you not to report.

WCB Alberta. Report even if you are unsure about the injury; the myWCB app is the fastest option. It is illegal for an employer to ask you not to report.

Official page: report an injury ↗

You cannot afford a lawyer (legal aid)

Legal aid covers some problems only, often criminal, family and some civil matters, and uses a financial test. Duty counsel at the courthouse is often available without applying. Ask early: waiting lists exist.

Legal Aid Alberta. The main way to apply is by phone. You must be an Alberta resident (or have a case in Alberta), and a financial check applies. Duty counsel at court is free to everyone.

Official page: apply for legal aid ↗

Scams and fraud

If you were scammed or your identity was stolen, see the step-by-step help under where to start.

Procedures only: fees, limits, forms and time limits change and differ, so each official page is the authority. General information, not legal advice; a community legal clinic can help. Quebec has its own rules: see AtlasQuébec.