Free Statute of Limitations Lookup
Every state sets a time limit on how long a creditor can sue you to collect a debt. Select your state and debt type below to see the typical statute of limitations.
Educational estimate only, not legal advice. Statutes of limitations can vary by the specific type of contract, when the clock started (often the date of last payment or last activity), and can sometimes be restarted by a partial payment or written acknowledgment of the debt. Confirm your specific situation with a consumer law attorney or legal aid organization before making any decision based on this estimate.
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your consumer rights and what to do about time-barred debt.
Making a Payment Can Restart the Clock
In many states, making even a partial payment, or acknowledging a debt in writing, can restart the statute of limitations clock, potentially exposing you to a lawsuit again on a debt that was previously time-barred. Verify a debt's status before paying anything on an old account. See Time-Barred Debt for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a statute of limitations on debt?
It's the time period during which a creditor or collector can legally sue you to collect a debt. Once it expires, the debt is often called 'time-barred', the creditor can still ask you to pay, but generally can't win a lawsuit to force payment.
What starts the clock on the statute of limitations?
In most states, it's the date of your last payment or last activity on the account, not the date the account was opened or charged off. Making a new payment or acknowledging the debt in writing can sometimes restart the clock.
Can a debt still show on my credit report after the statute of limitations expires?
Yes, the statute of limitations and credit reporting time limits are different things. Most negative items remain on your credit report for up to 7 years from the date of first delinquency, regardless of your state's statute of limitations.
What should I do if I'm sued on a time-barred debt?
Respond to the lawsuit by the deadline and raise the expired statute of limitations as a defense, don't just ignore it because you believe the debt is too old to collect. Consult a consumer law attorney if you're unsure.
Related Resources
This information is for general education only and is not legal advice. Debt collection laws vary by state and change over time. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.