Statute of Limitations on Debt
Every debt has a time limit on when collectors can sue you. After that limit expires, the debt is "time-barred" - still real, but uncollectible through courts.
Check Your SoL Now
Enter your state, debt type, and last payment date to find out if the clock has expired.
Use the SoL Checker →By-State SoL Table
All 50 states, all major debt types, with statute citations. Updated for recent changes (New York reduced to 3 years in 2022).
View Full SoL Table →Key SoL Concepts
When the Clock Starts
The SoL clock typically starts from the date of your first default or last payment - whichever is later. If you made a partial payment, the clock likely reset to that date.
What Resets the Clock
In most states: making any payment (even a small one) and sometimes even acknowledging the debt in writing. Never make a payment on old debt without understanding your state's rules.
SoL vs. Credit Reporting
The statute of limitations (when they can sue) and the credit reporting period (7 years from original delinquency) are separate. A debt can be past the SoL but still on your credit report.
State-Specific SoL Pages
Check your state's specific SoL laws, exemptions, and protections: