Statute-barred debt
A statute-barred debt is one that is too old for the creditor to enforce through the courts, because the limitation period has expired.
Also known as: statute barred, time-barred debt, limitation period
In England and Wales, the usual limitation period for most consumer debts is six years from the last payment or written acknowledgement. In Scotland, the rules differ. The debt does not disappear, but a creditor cannot successfully sue you for it if you raise the limitation defence.
Be careful: making a payment or acknowledging the debt in writing can restart the clock. If you receive a letter about an old debt, get advice before replying.
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