Statute of Limitations on Debt in Maine
How long a creditor or collector has to sue you over a debt in Maine, and whether a payment restarts the clock.
Short answer: 6 years for most civil actions, including suits on written or oral contracts. 20 years only for contracts under seal or promissory notes signed in front of an attesting witness. 14 M.R.S. § 752; 14 M.R.S. § 751
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 6 years for most civil actions, including suits on written or oral contracts. 20 years only for contracts under seal or promissory notes signed in front of an attesting witness. § 751: https://legislature.maine.gov/statutes/14/title14sec751.html Source: 14 M.R.S. § 752; 14 M.R.S. § 751 |
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| Time limit for credit cards and open accounts | 6 years, the same general period that applies to written and oral contracts. Source: 14 M.R.S. § 752 |
| Can a payment restart the clock? | For contract debts, an acknowledgment or new promise extends the time to sue only if it is express, in writing, and signed by the person who owes the debt. An acknowledgment by one co-signer does not affect the others. Whether a partial payment alone restarts the period is not addressed by § 860 and depends on case law. Source: 14 M.R.S. § 860 |
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FAQ
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Maine?
6 years for most civil actions, including suits on written or oral contracts. 20 years only for contracts under seal or promissory notes signed in front of an attesting witness.
How long can a creditor sue on a credit card debt in Maine?
6 years, the same general period that applies to written and oral contracts.
Does making a payment restart the statute of limitations in Maine?
For contract debts, an acknowledgment or new promise extends the time to sue only if it is express, in writing, and signed by the person who owes the debt. An acknowledgment by one co-signer does not affect the others.
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.