Is Your Debt Too Old to Sue? Check the Statute of Limitations
Debt collectors have a limited window to sue you — after the statute of limitations expires, the debt is legally time-barred. Use SOLCheck to find your state's deadline instantly.
Your information never leaves your browser. All calculations are done locally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "time-barred" mean for a debt?
A time-barred debt is one where the statute of limitations has expired, meaning a debt collector can no longer successfully sue you in court to collect it. The debt itself still legally exists — collectors may still contact you — but they lose the legal tool of a lawsuit once the SOL window closes.
When does the statute of limitations clock start?
The clock typically starts on the date of your last payment, last charge, or last written acknowledgment of the debt. This varies slightly by state and debt type. In most states, making a new payment or signing a written promise to pay can restart the clock — known as "re-aging" — so get legal advice before responding to collectors about old debts.
Does the statute of limitations remove the debt from my credit report?
No — these are two separate clocks. The credit reporting window under the FCRA is typically 7 years from first delinquency, regardless of the SOL for lawsuits. A debt can be legally time-barred for court but still appear on your credit report, and vice versa.
Which state's statute of limitations applies to my debt?
Generally the state where you lived when the debt was incurred or where the contract was signed governs the SOL, but some creditors include choice-of-law clauses pointing to their home state. Courts may apply the SOL of the state where the lawsuit is filed. If you're unsure, consult an attorney — this is a common complexity in collection lawsuits.
Can a debt collector still contact me after the SOL expires?
Yes. Under the FDCPA, debt collectors may continue to contact you about a time-barred debt, but they cannot sue or threaten to sue you if they know the debt is beyond the statute of limitations. Threatening a lawsuit on a time-barred debt is a violation of the FDCPA and you may be entitled to damages. You can send a written cease-contact letter to stop all communication.