Form N294 UK: Claimant's Variation Order Application

What this document is

Form N294 is the county court application used by a claimant (the party who obtained the judgment) to ask for a variation to the terms of payment already ordered against the defendant. A variation order doesn't change the amount owed.

What it changes is how that money is paid back. In most cases this means moving from a 'pay in full by X date' order to a structured instalment plan, or adjusting existing instalments that aren't working. Claimants might use this form when the defendant has defaulted on a lump sum order but has shown some willingness or ability to pay smaller amounts over time.

It can also be used where circumstances have shifted since the original order was made. The court will weigh up what's fair and what's realistic, looking at the defendant's means and the claimant's interest in recovering what's owed. A fee usually applies to the application, so check gov.uk for the current amount before filing.

How to use this document

1. Gather your judgment details. Before you touch the form, pull together the original claim number, the date judgment was entered, and the exact wording of the payment order. You'll also need up-to-date figures showing how much of the debt is still outstanding, including any interest that has accrued since the judgment was made. 2. Complete the top section with case identifiers. Fill in the court name, the claim number, your name as claimant, and the defendant's full name and address. Accuracy here matters because the court uses these details to pull the existing file. If you have an internal reference number you want to appear on correspondence, add it in the optional reference field. 3. Set out the reason for your application. In the reason box, explain clearly why you're asking the court to vary the existing order. This might be because the defendant hasn't paid as directed, has asked for a different arrangement, or because enforcement would be pointless without a realistic payment schedule. Keep it factual and focused on what has changed. 4. Record the payment history and outstanding balance. Enter the date of the original judgment, describe how payment was ordered (for example, in full within 14 days, or by instalments of a set amount), and state the outstanding debt and the amount remaining due including interest. These figures should match your records and be ready to evidence if challenged. 5. Sign, pay the fee and file with the court. Sign and date the form, then submit it to the county court handling the original judgment, either by post, in person, or through the relevant online channel where available. Pay the applicable court fee, and be ready to provide copies so the defendant can be notified of the application.

Common questions