Statute of Limitations on Debt in Colorado
How long a creditor or collector has to sue you over a debt in Colorado, and whether a payment restarts the clock.
Short answer: 6 years for actions to recover a liquidated debt or a determinable amount of money due, and for enforcing any instrument that secures or evidences a debt. Most consumer debts with a set balance fall in this category. C.R.S. § 13-80-103.5(1)(a); § 13-80-101(1)(a)
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 6 years for actions to recover a liquidated debt or a determinable amount of money due, and for enforcing any instrument that secures or evidences a debt. Most consumer debts with a set balance fall in this category. Other contract claims generally have 3 years. Read in the official Colorado Revised Statutes 2024 Title 13 printout (Office of Legislative Legal Services). 2025-2026 amendments, if any, are not reflected. |
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| Time limit for credit cards and open accounts | The 6-year period for liquidated or determinable debts generally applies to credit card and other account balances, whether or not there is a signed writing. Contract claims that are not for a liquidated or determinable amount have 3 years. |
| Can a payment restart the clock? | An acknowledgment or promise to pay extends the limitations period 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. Source: C.R.S. § 13-80-113 |
Where to get help in Colorado
- Colorado Attorney General, Consumer Credit Unit (licenses collection agencies under the Colorado Fair Debt Collection Practices Act)
- File a complaint or claim
More Colorado debt & collections
- Wage Garnishment in Colorado
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Colorado
- What Creditors Can't Take in Colorado
- Medical Debt Protections in Colorado
- All Colorado debt & collections rules
FAQ
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Colorado?
6 years for actions to recover a liquidated debt or a determinable amount of money due, and for enforcing any instrument that secures or evidences a debt. Most consumer debts with a set balance fall in this category. Other contract claims generally have 3 years.
How long can a creditor sue on a credit card debt in Colorado?
The 6-year period for liquidated or determinable debts generally applies to credit card and other account balances, whether or not there is a signed writing. Contract claims that are not for a liquidated or determinable amount have 3 years.
Does making a payment restart the statute of limitations in Colorado?
An acknowledgment or promise to pay extends the limitations period 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.