When Is Debt Too Old for Debt Collector to Collect Ask the Experts AARP B
When Is Debt Too Old for Debt Collector to Collect - Ask the Experts - AARP B...
If a collector has contacted you about an expired debt, you may write a letter to the collection agency stating that the statute of limitations has passed and ask that it not contact you again. Mail your letter with proof of delivery and save a copy. If the collector continues to contact you, file a complaint with the . As far as your credit report is concerned, a collection effort can remain on it for up to seven years. After that, it must be removed, even if the debt has not been paid. Also of interest: Carole Fleck is a senior editor at the AARP Bulletin. Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures
Do I Have to Pay an 8-Year-Old Debt
In many states you' re off the hook after a few years
Q. A debt collector called me about a debt that's from at least eight years ago. Am I obligated to pay it? A. State laws dictate how long a collector can pursue you to , so the first thing you'll want to do is research your state's statute of limitations or call your . Photo by Masterfile Old debts can expire, but time varies by state. In many states, a debt expires between three and six years from the date you last made a payment. If you were to make a payment now toward your balance, the clock would start running all over again. In some states, collectors are prohibited from going after a debt that's expired. In others, they can sue you but you have a valid defense in court that the debt is too old to collect.Related
If a collector has contacted you about an expired debt, you may write a letter to the collection agency stating that the statute of limitations has passed and ask that it not contact you again. Mail your letter with proof of delivery and save a copy. If the collector continues to contact you, file a complaint with the . As far as your credit report is concerned, a collection effort can remain on it for up to seven years. After that, it must be removed, even if the debt has not been paid. Also of interest: Carole Fleck is a senior editor at the AARP Bulletin. Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures