Statute of Limitations on Debt in Oregon
How long a creditor or collector has to sue you over a debt in Oregon, and whether a payment restarts the clock.
Short answer: 6 years for an action on a contract or liability, express or implied. Oregon uses the same period for written and oral contracts. ORS 12.080(1)
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 6 years for an action on a contract or liability, express or implied. Oregon uses the same period for written and oral contracts. Source: ORS 12.080(1) |
|---|---|
| Time limit for credit cards and open accounts | 6 years, the same as written contracts, because ORS 12.080(1) covers contracts express or implied (including oral agreements and credit accounts). Source: ORS 12.080(1) |
| Can a payment restart the clock? | Yes for payments: when a payment of principal or interest is made after a debt is due, the limitations period starts again from the last payment. An acknowledgment or new promise extends the period only if it is in a writing signed by the debtor. Source: ORS 12.230, 12.240 |
Where to get help in Oregon
- Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services, Division of Financial Regulation (registers collection agencies)
- File a complaint or claim
More Oregon debt & collections
- Wage Garnishment in Oregon
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Oregon
- What Creditors Can't Take in Oregon
- Medical Debt Protections in Oregon
- All Oregon debt & collections rules
FAQ
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Oregon?
6 years for an action on a contract or liability, express or implied. Oregon uses the same period for written and oral contracts.
How long can a creditor sue on a credit card debt in Oregon?
6 years, the same as written contracts, because ORS 12.080(1) covers contracts express or implied (including oral agreements and credit accounts).
Does making a payment restart the statute of limitations in Oregon?
Yes for payments: when a payment of principal or interest is made after a debt is due, the limitations period starts again from the last payment. An acknowledgment or new promise extends the period only if it is in a writing signed by the debtor.
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.