Statute of Limitations on Debt in Louisiana
How long a creditor or collector has to sue you over a debt in Louisiana, and whether a payment restarts the clock.
Short answer: 10 years for most contract claims ('personal actions'), whether the contract is written or oral, unless a shorter period applies. Debts on money lent and on open accounts have a shorter 3-year period. La. C.C. art. 3499; art. 3494
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 10 years for most contract claims ('personal actions'), whether the contract is written or oral, unless a shorter period applies. Debts on money lent and on open accounts have a shorter 3-year period. Louisiana calls limitation periods 'liberative prescription.' Art. 3494: https://legis.la.gov/Legis/Law.aspx?d=110518 Source: La. C.C. art. 3499; art. 3494 |
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| Time limit for credit cards and open accounts | 3 years for an action on an open account, on money lent, or for unpaid rent. Whether a particular credit card debt is treated as an open account or money lent (3 years) or another personal action (10 years) depends on the facts and court decisions. Source: La. C.C. art. 3494(2)-(4) |
| Can a payment restart the clock? | Yes. Prescription (the limitations period) is interrupted when the debtor acknowledges the creditor's right, and a new period begins. What counts as an acknowledgment (for example, a partial payment or a written promise) is decided by the courts. Source: La. C.C. art. 3464 |
Where to get help in Louisiana
More Louisiana debt & collections
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FAQ
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Louisiana?
10 years for most contract claims ('personal actions'), whether the contract is written or oral, unless a shorter period applies. Debts on money lent and on open accounts have a shorter 3-year period.
How long can a creditor sue on a credit card debt in Louisiana?
3 years for an action on an open account, on money lent, or for unpaid rent.
Does making a payment restart the statute of limitations in Louisiana?
Yes. Prescription (the limitations period) is interrupted when the debtor acknowledges the creditor's right, and a new period begins.
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.