Statute of Limitations on Debt: When Collectors Can No Longer Sue You
The statute of limitations determines how long a collector has to sue you for a debt. After it expires, the debt is 'time-barred' and a lawsuit can be defeated. Here is every state's limit.
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What Is the Statute of Limitations on Debt?
The statute of limitations (SOL) is the maximum period of time after a debt becomes delinquent during which a creditor or collector can file a successful lawsuit to collect it. After the SOL expires, the debt is time-barred — the collector cannot win a lawsuit against you, though they can still attempt to collect through other means (calls, letters, credit reporting if within 7 years).
SOL Does Not Equal Credit Reporting Period
These are two completely separate clocks. The credit reporting period (7 years for most items) and the statute of limitations are independent — neither clock controls the other.
| Clock | Controls | Can Be Reset? |
|---|---|---|
| Statute of Limitations | Whether collector can win a lawsuit | Yes — payment or written acknowledgment |
| Credit Reporting Period | How long it appears on your credit report | No — cannot be reset |
Statute of Limitations by Debt Type — Selected States
| State | Credit Card (Open Account) | Written Contract | Oral Contract |
|---|---|---|---|
| {{ state }} | {{ cc }} years | {{ written }} years | {{ oral }} years |
State SOLs change frequently. Verify with your state attorney general's website.
What Resets the Statute of Limitations
In most states, the SOL can be reset ("revived") by:
- Making any payment on the debt — even $1
- Making a written promise to pay
- Acknowledging in writing that you owe the debt
Verbal acknowledgment generally does not reset the SOL, but written acknowledgment often does. This is why never pay zombie debt without legal advice — even a token payment can restart the clock.
Raising SOL as a Defense
If a collector sues you on a time-barred debt and you receive a court summons, do not ignore it. Respond in writing before the deadline and raise the statute of limitations as an affirmative defense. If you ignore the suit, the collector can get a default judgment even on time-barred debt — and that judgment can result in wage garnishment.
Educational content only. This page is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal, tax, or personal financial advice. Results vary. Laws and bureau processes change. Consult the CFPB, FTC, and AnnualCreditReport.com for authoritative guidance. Full disclaimer
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