Statute of Limitations on Debt in Illinois
How long a creditor or collector has to sue you over a debt in Illinois, and whether a payment restarts the clock.
Short answer: 10 years for an action on a written contract, such as a signed loan agreement or promissory note. 735 ILCS 5/13-206
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 10 years for an action on a written contract, such as a signed loan agreement or promissory note. Current text shows Source P.A. 104-842, eff. 8-21-26; the 10-year period remains. Source: 735 ILCS 5/13-206 |
|---|---|
| Time limit for credit cards and open accounts | 5 years for unwritten contracts, express or implied, and for civil actions not otherwise provided for. Which period applies to a credit card or other account debt depends on whether the creditor can prove a written contract containing the terms. Source: 735 ILCS 5/13-205 |
| Can a payment restart the clock? | For written contracts and other written evidence of debt, if a payment or a new promise to pay is made in writing, a new 10-year period starts from the date of that payment or promise. Restart rules for unwritten contracts (735 ILCS 5/13-206 and case law) were not separately reviewed. Source: 735 ILCS 5/13-206 |
Where to get help in Illinois
- Illinois Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division (collection agency licensing: Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation)
- File a complaint or claim
More Illinois debt & collections
- Wage Garnishment in Illinois
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Illinois
- What Creditors Can't Take in Illinois
- Medical Debt Protections in Illinois
- All Illinois debt & collections rules
FAQ
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Illinois?
10 years for an action on a written contract, such as a signed loan agreement or promissory note.
How long can a creditor sue on a credit card debt in Illinois?
5 years for unwritten contracts, express or implied, and for civil actions not otherwise provided for. Which period applies to a credit card or other account debt depends on whether the creditor can prove a written contract containing the terms.
Does making a payment restart the statute of limitations in Illinois?
For written contracts and other written evidence of debt, if a payment or a new promise to pay is made in writing, a new 10-year period starts from the date of that payment or promise.
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.