Specific Debt Collection Practices by State
Note: This is a simplified educational summary and may not include every exception or recent change. If you’re dealing with a lawsuit threat, wage garnishment, or an old debt where the time limit might matter, consider speaking with a qualified attorney in your state.
Alabama
Alabama doesn’t have a separate “debt collection practices act” listed here. That usually means most rules come from federal law (the FDCPA)—which bans things like harassment, lying about a debt, or making illegal threats—plus general state consumer-protection laws (for example, Covered under UDAP (Ala. Code § 8-19-5)). For Open accounts (credit cards), the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Alabama, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – possible if documented). What this means for you: The state has fewer extra consumer protections beyond the federal FDCPA..
Alaska
In Alaska, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Alaska Statutes § 08.24.320 + Alaska UDAP (45.50.471) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Alaska, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by documentation). What this means for you: Collection agency form requirements.
Arizona
In Arizona, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Arizona Revised Statutes § 32-1051; Licensed collection agencies (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts (written contracts), the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Good to know: in Arizona, the clock typically doesn’t restart just because you make a small payment. It may only restart if you sign something in writing acknowledging the debt (Abolished – Requires signed written acknowledgment). What this means for you: Strong licensing and conduct requirements.
Arkansas
In Arkansas, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Arkansas Debt Collection Practices Act (Ark. Code § 17-24-203 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Written contracts, the time limit to sue is listed as 5 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Arkansas, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – payment can restart). What this means for you: Covers harassment, abuse, misrepresentations.
California
In California, debt collectors are mainly regulated under California Debt Collection Act (Cal. Civ. Code § 1788 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Written contracts/Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 4 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in California, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes before expiration; Signed writing after). What this means for you: The state provides stronger consumer protections than many others.; statute governs 3rd party collectors.
Colorado
In Colorado, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Colorado Debt Collection Practices Act (CRS § 5-16-101 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts (written contracts), the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Colorado, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – acknowledged in statute). What this means for you: Prohibits harassment, false representations, unfair practices.
Connecticut
In Connecticut, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Connecticut Fair Debt Collection Law (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 36a-646) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Written contracts/Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Connecticut, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by court ruling). What this means for you: Covers both creditors and collection agencies.
Delaware
Delaware doesn’t have a separate “debt collection practices act” listed here. That usually means most rules come from federal law (the FDCPA)—which bans things like harassment, lying about a debt, or making illegal threats—plus general state consumer-protection laws (for example, Relies on federal FDCPA and licensing). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years (Delaware); varies by card issuer state. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Delaware, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – Payment + acknowledgment may revive). What this means for you: Many credit cards use Delaware law (3-year SOL).
District of Columbia
In District of Columbia, debt collectors are mainly regulated under D.C. Code § 12-301 (limited collection regulations) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in District of Columbia, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Varies). What this means for you: Minimal state-level debt collection protections.
Florida
In Florida, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act (Fla. Stat. § 559.72 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 5 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Florida, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – possible via acknowledgment). What this means for you: Covers original creditors and 3rd party collectors; extensive prohibited practices.
Georgia
In Georgia, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Georgia Installment Loan Act (GILA § 7-3-33) + UDAP (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years (courts apply written contract rule to CC). After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Georgia, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – Requires written acknowledgment/record). What this means for you: Limited to loans under $3,000 under GILA; broader UDAP applies.
Hawaii
In Hawaii, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Hawaii Revised Statutes § 443B-15 et seq. (Collection Agency Law) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts (written contracts), the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Hawaii, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – written acknowledgment required). What this means for you: Detailed prohibitions on threats, harassment, deceptive practices.
Idaho
In Idaho, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Idaho Debt Collection Requirements (Idaho Code § 26-2229A) + UDAP (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Written contracts, the time limit to sue is listed as 4 years (open accounts); 5 years (written contracts). After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Idaho, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – depends on documentation). What this means for you: Collection agencies must deal openly, fairly, honestly.
Illinois
In Illinois, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Illinois Debt Collection Act (820 ILCS 740/9 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts/Written contracts, the time limit to sue is listed as 5 years (open accounts); 10 years (written contracts if documented). After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Illinois, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – restart possible; varies by agreement type). What this means for you: Strict limitations on communication and harassment.
Indiana
In Indiana, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Indiana Code § 24-5-0.5-3 (UDAP) + licensing (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Indiana, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Varies). What this means for you: No specific DCP act; FDCPA violations covered under UDAP.
Iowa
In Iowa, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Iowa Debt Collection Practices Act (Iowa Code § 537.7103 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 5 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Iowa, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – partial payment can restart). What this means for you: Prohibits illegal threats, coercion, harassment, deceptive means.
Kansas
In Kansas, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Kansas Consumer Protection Act (KCPA § 50-626 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Kansas, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Varies – KCPA requires specific conditions). What this means for you: Limited specific DCP protections; relies on general UDAP.
Kentucky
Kentucky doesn’t have a separate “debt collection practices act” listed here. That usually means most rules come from federal law (the FDCPA)—which bans things like harassment, lying about a debt, or making illegal threats—plus general state consumer-protection laws (for example, Kentucky Consumer Protection Act applies to some). For Open accounts/Contracts, the time limit to sue is listed as 5 years (oral); 15 years (written) – unclear which applies to credit cards. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Kentucky, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by contract type). What this means for you: Ambiguous law; courts interpret case-by-case.
Louisiana
In Louisiana, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Louisiana Unauthorized Collection Practices (La. Rev. Stat. § 9:3562) + UDAP (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Louisiana, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – payment can restart). What this means for you: Limits creditor contact; one notice/month after default notice.
Maine
In Maine, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Maine Debt Collection Practices Act (32 Me. Rev. Stat. § 11012 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Maine, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – written acknowledgment required). What this means for you: Detailed communication limits and prohibited practices.
Maryland
In Maryland, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act (Com. Law § 14-202 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Maryland, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Varies by court interpretation). What this means for you: Prohibits force, threats, false statements, abusive conduct.
Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Massachusetts Fair Debt Collection Act (940 CMR 7.00) + statute (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Massachusetts, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – payment/acknowledgment may revive after expiration). What this means for you: Among the strictest in nation; extensive consumer protections.
Michigan
In Michigan, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Michigan Collection Practices Act + licensing requirements (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Michigan, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by acknowledgment). What this means for you: Detailed regulations on agency conduct and licensing.
Minnesota
In Minnesota, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Minnesota Consumer Act including debt collection provisions (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Minnesota, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies; payment can restart in some cases). What this means for you: The state provides stronger consumer protections than many others. embedded in broader Consumer Act.
Mississippi
In Mississippi, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited (Mississippi Code § 15-1-29); Relies mostly on federal law (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Good to know: in Mississippi, the clock typically doesn’t restart just because you make a small payment (No – Extinguished after SOL expires (Mississippi Rule)). What this means for you: One of only 2 states where debt is extinguished (not revivable).
Missouri
In Missouri, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Missouri Code § 516.120 (Statute of Limitations) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 5 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Missouri, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – payment can restart). What this means for you: Limited specific DCP protections; licensing requirements exist.
Montana
In Montana, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited state-specific DCP law; UDAP applies (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 5-8 years (depends on contract type). After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Montana, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by documentation). What this means for you: Open account SOL is 5 years; written contracts 8 years.
Nebraska
In Nebraska, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; UDAP + licensing (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 4 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Nebraska, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – documented payment/acknowledgment). What this means for you: Licensing required for collection agencies.
Nevada
In Nevada, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; Licensing requirements exist (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 4 years (card agreement often specifies). After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Nevada, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies; payment can restart). What this means for you: Many cards subject to Nevada 4-year SOL.
New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; UDAP applies (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in New Hampshire, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies). What this means for you: Minimal state debt collection protections beyond FDCPA.
New Jersey
In New Jersey, debt collectors are mainly regulated under New Jersey Fair Debt Collection Practices Act + regulations (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in New Jersey, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by court interpretation). What this means for you: Detailed licensing and conduct requirements.
New Mexico
In New Mexico, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; UDAP + licensing (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 4 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in New Mexico, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – depends on state law interpretation). What this means for you: Basic licensing requirements for collection agencies.
New York
In New York, debt collectors are mainly regulated under New York Fair Debt Collection Practices (GBLS § 600-604) + DFS rules (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Written contracts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years (civil practice law). After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in New York, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – payment/acknowledgment may revive expired debt). What this means for you: DFS regulations provide additional protections.
North Carolina
In North Carolina, debt collectors are mainly regulated under North Carolina Debt Collection Act (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 75-50 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in North Carolina, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies; written acknowledgment preferred). What this means for you: Covers practices by creditors and collectors.
North Dakota
In North Dakota, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; UDAP applies (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in North Dakota, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Varies). What this means for you: Minimal specific state debt collection statute.
Ohio
In Ohio, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Ohio Consumer Protection Act § 1345.02 (debt collection component) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Ohio, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – payment/acknowledgment can restart). What this means for you: Debt collection within broader consumer protection law.
Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Oklahoma Consumer Protection Act (12 O.S. § 12-95A) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Oklahoma, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by documentation). What this means for you: Limited specific DCP protections.
Oregon
In Oregon, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Oregon Debt Collection Act + regulations (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Oregon, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – partial payment can restart). What this means for you: Detailed licensing and conduct requirements for agencies.
Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Pennsylvania Fair Credit Extension Uniformity Act (73 P.S. § 2270.1 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Written contracts/Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 4 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Pennsylvania, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – clear unequivocal payment can revive). What this means for you: FCEUA incorporates FDCPA standards into state law.
Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Rhode Island Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-13) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Written contracts, the time limit to sue is listed as 10 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Rhode Island, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – payment/acknowledgment can restart). What this means for you: Longest SOL in nation (10 years).
South Carolina
In South Carolina, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; Licensing + UDAP (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in South Carolina, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by acknowledgment). What this means for you: Minimal specific debt collection statute.
South Dakota
In South Dakota, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; Licensing requirements (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Written contracts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in South Dakota, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies; interest accrues (up to 14%)). What this means for you: Many card issuers use South Dakota law.
Tennessee
In Tennessee, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; UDAP applies (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Tennessee, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by documentation). What this means for you: Minimal state-specific DCP protections.
Texas
In Texas, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Texas Debt Collection Act (Tex. Fin. Code § 392 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts (written/oral contracts), the time limit to sue is listed as 4 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Good to know: in Texas, the clock typically doesn’t restart just because you make a small payment. It may only restart if you sign something in writing acknowledging the debt (No – For debt buyers; written acknowledgment required for revival). What this means for you: 2019 law: Payment does NOT restart SOL for debt buyers.
Utah
In Utah, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; licensing requirements (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 4 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Utah, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Varies – courts apply card issuer state law usually). What this means for you: Many card issuers use Utah law (American Express).
Vermont
In Vermont, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; Licensing + UDAP (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Vermont, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by court interpretation). What this means for you: Promissory notes: 14-year SOL (unusual).
Virginia
In Virginia, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Virginia Consumer Collection Act + regulations (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 3 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Good to know: in Virginia, the clock typically doesn’t restart just because you make a small payment. It may only restart if you sign something in writing acknowledging the debt (No – Signed written acknowledgment required (no payment alone)). What this means for you: Strict rules on revival; payment alone insufficient.
Washington
In Washington, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Washington Collection Agency Act (RCW 19.16.100 et seq.) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Written contracts/Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Washington, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – payment can restart). What this means for you: Detailed licensing and conduct requirements.
West Virginia
In West Virginia, debt collectors are mainly regulated under West Virginia Consumer Credit Protection Act (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 5 years (open); 10 years (written contracts). After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in West Virginia, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies by contract type). What this means for you: Complex SOL rules depending on debt classification.
Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Wisconsin Consumer Act (Chapter 427) (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Open accounts, the time limit to sue is listed as 6 years. After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Good to know: in Wisconsin, the clock typically doesn’t restart just because you make a small payment (No – Extinguished after SOL (like Mississippi)). What this means for you: One of only 2 states where debt is extinguished after SOL expires.
Wyoming
In Wyoming, debt collectors are mainly regulated under Limited specific DCP law; Licensing requirements (along with federal law (the FDCPA)). For Written contracts, the time limit to sue is listed as 8 years (longest for open accounts; written contracts). After that time passes, you may have a defense if you’re sued—even though collectors might still try to contact you to collect. Watch out: in Wyoming, the clock can sometimes start over if you make a partial payment or otherwise acknowledge the debt (Yes – varies). What this means for you: 8-year SOL among longest in nation for open accounts.