Key points
- Usually six years for unsecured debts in England, Wales and NI
- Clock runs from your last payment or written acknowledgement
- Debts with a CCJ are treated differently
- In Scotland, most debts are written off after five years (prescription)
- Don't make a payment until you've checked
What does statute barred mean?
Under the Limitation Act, a creditor usually has six years to take court action for most unsecured debts. If you haven't paid anything or acknowledged the debt in writing during that time, the debt may be statute barred. You still technically owe it, but the creditor can't enforce it through the courts.
What resets the clock?
Making a payment, or acknowledging the debt in writing, usually restarts the six-year period. That's why it's important to check before paying anything towards an old debt.
Scotland is different
In Scotland, most debts "prescribe" after five years if there has been no payment or written acknowledgement and no court action. A prescribed debt is wiped out completely.
What should I do if a collector chases an old debt?
- Check when you last paid or wrote about the debt.
- If it's over six years, you can write to the collector to say you believe it's statute barred.
- Keep copies of everything you send and receive.
Frequently asked questions
How long until a debt is statute barred?
Usually six years from your last payment or written acknowledgement for unsecured debts in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Does a statute barred debt affect my credit file?
Defaults are removed from your credit file six years after the default date, whether or not the debt is statute barred.
Can a collector still contact me?
Yes, but they can't take court action and shouldn't mislead you about what they can do.
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Sources and further reading
This guide is general information, not advice, and was correct when last updated. Rules and limits can change. Speak to a regulated adviser about your own situation.