Statute of Limitations on Debt in Missouri
How long a creditor or collector has to sue you over a debt in Missouri, and whether a payment restarts the clock.
Short answer: 10 years for an action on a writing that promises to pay money. 5 years for other contract actions, including oral agreements. RSMo 516.110(1); RSMo 516.120(1)
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 10 years for an action on a writing that promises to pay money. 5 years for other contract actions, including oral agreements. 516.120: https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=516.120. Which period applies depends on whether the written document itself contains the promise to pay. Source: RSMo 516.110(1); RSMo 516.120(1) |
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| Time limit for credit cards and open accounts | 5 years for contracts, obligations or liabilities, express or implied, other than writings for the payment of money. Whether a credit card account is a 'writing for the payment of money' (10 years) depends on the documents and court decisions. Source: RSMo 516.120(1) |
| Can a payment restart the clock? | For contract debts, an acknowledgment or promise extends or revives the time to sue only if it is in a writing signed by the person who owes the debt. Source: RSMo 516.320 |
More Missouri debt & collections
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- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Missouri
- What Creditors Can't Take in Missouri
- All Missouri debt & collections rules
FAQ
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Missouri?
10 years for an action on a writing that promises to pay money. 5 years for other contract actions, including oral agreements.
How long can a creditor sue on a credit card debt in Missouri?
5 years for contracts, obligations or liabilities, express or implied, other than writings for the payment of money. Whether a credit card account is a 'writing for the payment of money' (10 years) depends on the documents and court decisions.
Does making a payment restart the statute of limitations in Missouri?
For contract debts, an acknowledgment or promise extends or revives the time to sue only if it is in a writing signed by the person who owes the debt.
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.