What Is the Statute of Limitations on Debt?

The statute of limitations (SOL) on debt is the legally defined window during which a creditor or debt collector can sue you in court to collect what you owe. Once this period expires, the debt is considered time-barred — the collector loses their right to obtain a judgment against you through the courts.

How Long Is the Statute of Limitations?

Each state sets its own SOL for different types of debt. Typical ranges run from 3 to 10 years, depending on:

• Debt type — credit card (open account), written contract, oral agreement, or promissory note
• State law — your state of residence or where the contract was signed
• Choice-of-law clauses — some credit agreements designate a specific state's law

Use SOLCheck to look up the exact limit for your state and debt type instantly.

When Does the Clock Start?

The SOL clock generally starts on the date of your last payment, last charge, or last written acknowledgment of the debt. This varies by state — some states use the date of default, others use the date of last activity.

Warning: Making even a small payment or signing a written acknowledgment can restart the clock in many states. Never pay or respond in writing to an old debt without first checking whether it is time-barred.

What Happens After the SOL Expires?

• Collectors may still contact you about the debt — they are not required to stop.
• Collectors cannot sue you (or threaten to) on a time-barred debt without violating the FDCPA.
• The debt may still appear on your credit report for up to 7 years from first delinquency (a separate FCRA clock).

Know Your Rights

If a collector threatens to sue on a debt you believe is time-barred, document the communication. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), you may be entitled to statutory damages, actual damages, and attorney fees.