Statute of Limitations on Debt in Arizona
How long a creditor or collector has to sue you over a debt in Arizona, and whether a payment restarts the clock.
Short answer: 6 years for a debt based on a written contract signed in Arizona. If another state's limitations period conflicts, Arizona's 6-year rule applies to these debts. A.R.S. § 12-548(A)(1), (B)
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 6 years for a debt based on a written contract signed in Arizona. If another state's limitations period conflicts, Arizona's 6-year rule applies to these debts. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: A.R.S. § 12-548(A)(1), (B) |
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| Time limit for credit cards and open accounts | Credit card debt has 6 years under the same statute as written contracts. Debts not evidenced by a written contract (such as oral agreements) and stated or open accounts have 3 years. § 12-543 text: https://www.azleg.gov/ars/12/00543.htm Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: A.R.S. § 12-548(A)(2); § 12-543 |
| Can a payment restart the clock? | Once a claim is time-barred, an acknowledgment that the debt is owed revives it only if the acknowledgment is in writing and signed by the debtor. The statute does not address the effect of a partial payment. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: A.R.S. § 12-508 |
Where to get help in Arizona
- Arizona Attorney General, Consumer Protection (collection agency licensing: Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions)
- File a complaint or claim
More Arizona debt & collections
- Wage Garnishment in Arizona
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Arizona
- What Creditors Can't Take in Arizona
- Medical Debt Protections in Arizona
- All Arizona debt & collections rules
FAQ
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Arizona?
6 years for a debt based on a written contract signed in Arizona. If another state's limitations period conflicts, Arizona's 6-year rule applies to these debts.
How long can a creditor sue on a credit card debt in Arizona?
Credit card debt has 6 years under the same statute as written contracts. Debts not evidenced by a written contract (such as oral agreements) and stated or open accounts have 3 years.
Does making a payment restart the statute of limitations in Arizona?
Once a claim is time-barred, an acknowledgment that the debt is owed revives it only if the acknowledgment is in writing and signed by the debtor.
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.