Statute of Limitations on Debt Collection by State

If you’ve ever had a debt linger for years, you might have wondered: can a creditor still legally collect it?

The answer often depends on something called the statute of limitations—a legal time limit for creditors or debt collectors to file a lawsuit to collect a debt. But here’s where it gets tricky: this time limit varies by state, and it depends on the type of debt, too.

In this article, we’ll break down what the statute of limitations means, why it matters, and how it differs across the United States.

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Debt?

The statute of limitations on debt is a law that sets the maximum time after a debt becomes overdue that a creditor or debt collector can take legal action against you to recover it. If this time period passes, the debt becomes “time-barred,” meaning the creditor can no longer sue you for it.

However, the debt doesn’t magically disappear. You still owe the money, and creditors can still try to collect it—but only through voluntary payment, not through court action.

Why It Matters

Knowing the statute of limitations is crucial because:

  • It can protect you from being sued for old debts.
  • Making a payment or even acknowledging the debt can reset the clock.
  • It empowers you to respond properly if you’re contacted about an old account.

Types of Debt Covered

Statutes of limitations typically apply to these categories of debt:

  • Oral contracts: Agreements made verbally.
  • Written contracts: Most loan agreements and credit cards fall here.
  • Promissory notes: These include student loans and personal loans with signed repayment terms.
  • Open-ended accounts: Credit cards and lines of credit.

Each type may carry a different statute of limitations, even within the same state.

Statute of Limitations by State

Below is a general overview of the statute of limitations on written contracts and open-ended accounts (e.g., credit card debt) by state. Keep in mind, this is a simplified summary; consult your state laws or an attorney for details.

StateWritten ContractOpen Account
Alabama6 years3 years
Alaska3 years3 years
Arizona6 years6 years
Arkansas5 years3 years
California4 years4 years
Colorado6 years6 years
Connecticut6 years6 years
Delaware3 years3 years
Florida5 years4 years
Georgia6 years4 years
Hawaii6 years6 years
Idaho5 years4 years
Illinois10 years5 years
Indiana10 years6 years
Iowa10 years5 years
Kansas5 years3 years
Kentucky10 years5 years
Louisiana10 years3 years
Maine6 years6 years
Maryland3 years3 years
Massachusetts6 years6 years
Michigan6 years6 years
Minnesota6 years6 years
Mississippi3 years3 years
Missouri10 years5 years
Montana8 years5 years
Nebraska5 years4 years
Nevada6 years4 years
New Hampshire3 years3 years
New Jersey6 years6 years
New Mexico6 years4 years
New York6 years6 years
North Carolina3 years3 years
North Dakota6 years6 years
Ohio8 years6 years
Oklahoma5 years3 years
Oregon6 years6 years
Pennsylvania4 years4 years
Rhode Island10 years10 years
South Carolina3 years3 years
South Dakota6 years6 years
Tennessee6 years6 years
Texas4 years4 years
Utah6 years4 years
Vermont6 years6 years
Virginia5 years3 years
Washington6 years6 years
West Virginia10 years5 years
Wisconsin6 years6 years
Wyoming10 years8 years

Source: The Balance

Note: Time limits can also depend on whether the debt is based on an oral or written agreement, so the clock may vary.

Can the Clock be Restarted On the Statute of Limitations on Debt Collection?

One of the lesser-known details about debt collection is that acknowledging or paying the debt can reset the statute of limitations clock in many states. This means that:

  • Making a partial payment,
  • Agreeing in writing that you owe the debt,
  • Or even confirming the debt over the phone

…can all restart the time period, making it legally collectible in court once again. That’s why it’s so important to avoid saying anything until you know your rights.

What Should You Do If You’Contacted About Old Debt?

If a collector contacts you about a debt that may be time-barred:

  1. Don’t admit to the debt.
  2. Ask for debt validation in writing. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), you’re entitled to request this.
  3. Check your state’s statute of limitations to determine if it has expired.
  4. Seek legal advice if you’re unsure how to proceed.

Important Laws to Know

  • Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA): Prohibits abusive and deceptive collection tactics.
  • Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): Negative items, including unpaid debts, usually fall off your credit report after seven years—regardless of whether the statute of limitations has passed.

The statute of limitations on debt collection is a powerful legal protection, but it’s not always straightforward. The time limits vary based on state, type of debt, and specific contract details. Knowing the rules can protect your rights and help you navigate interactions with debt collectors more confidently.

If you suspect a debt is time-barred, proceed cautiously. Request verification, know your local laws, and never make a payment or promise without understanding the potential consequences.

When in doubt, consult with a consumer rights attorney or financial advisor to make sure you’re covered—and not getting pulled back into an old financial trap.

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