Statute of Limitations on Debt in Alaska
How long a creditor or collector has to sue you over a debt in Alaska, and whether a payment restarts the clock.
Short answer: 3 years for an action on a contract or liability, express or implied, unless another law sets a different period. Alaska uses the same period for written and oral contracts. Actions on a sealed instrument have 10 years. AS 09.10.053; AS 09.10.040
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 3 years for an action on a contract or liability, express or implied, unless another law sets a different period. Alaska uses the same period for written and oral contracts. Actions on a sealed instrument have 10 years. Re-verified and corrected 2026-10-27. Source: AS 09.10.053; AS 09.10.040 |
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| Time limit for credit cards and open accounts | 3 years, the same as other contracts. AS 09.10.053 covers contracts and liabilities whether express or implied, which includes credit card accounts and oral agreements. Re-verified and corrected 2026-10-27. Source: AS 09.10.053 |
| Can a payment restart the clock? | An acknowledgment or promise to pay keeps a debt alive only if it is in writing and signed by the debtor. The statute states that this rule does not change the effect of a payment of principal or interest. The statute does not itself say how long a payment extends the period. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: AS 09.10.200 |
Where to get help in Alaska
- Alaska Department of Law, Consumer Protection Unit (collection agency licensing is handled by the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development)
- File a complaint or claim
More Alaska debt & collections
- Wage Garnishment in Alaska
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Alaska
- What Creditors Can't Take in Alaska
- All Alaska debt & collections rules
FAQ
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Alaska?
3 years for an action on a contract or liability, express or implied, unless another law sets a different period. Alaska uses the same period for written and oral contracts. Actions on a sealed instrument have 10 years.
How long can a creditor sue on a credit card debt in Alaska?
3 years, the same as other contracts. AS 09.10.053 covers contracts and liabilities whether express or implied, which includes credit card accounts and oral agreements.
Does making a payment restart the statute of limitations in Alaska?
An acknowledgment or promise to pay keeps a debt alive only if it is in writing and signed by the debtor. The statute states that this rule does not change the effect of a payment of principal or interest.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.