Statute of Limitations on Debt in Washington
How long a creditor or collector has to sue you over a debt in Washington, and whether a payment restarts the clock.
Short answer: 6 years for an action on a written contract or a liability arising from a written agreement. RCW 4.16.040(1)
| Time limit to sue on a written contract | 6 years for an action on a written contract or a liability arising from a written agreement. Source: RCW 4.16.040(1) |
|---|---|
| Time limit for credit cards and open accounts | 3 years for a contract or liability not in writing (oral agreements and accounts not founded on a written agreement). Source: RCW 4.16.080(3) |
| Can a payment restart the clock? | A payment made before the limitations period expires restarts the period from the most recent payment. A written, signed acknowledgment or promise can also extend it. But a payment, acknowledgment or promise made after the period has expired does not restart, revive or extend it. Acknowledgment rule: https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=4.16.280 (both amended 2019). Source: RCW 4.16.270, 4.16.280 |
Where to get help in Washington
- Washington State Department of Licensing (licenses collection agencies); Washington Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division
- File a complaint or claim
More Washington debt & collections
- Wage Garnishment in Washington
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Washington
- What Creditors Can't Take in Washington
- Medical Debt Protections in Washington
- All Washington debt & collections rules
FAQ
What is the statute of limitations on debt in Washington?
6 years for an action on a written contract or a liability arising from a written agreement.
How long can a creditor sue on a credit card debt in Washington?
3 years for a contract or liability not in writing (oral agreements and accounts not founded on a written agreement).
Does making a payment restart the statute of limitations in Washington?
A payment made before the limitations period expires restarts the period from the most recent payment. A written, signed acknowledgment or promise can also extend it. But a payment, acknowledgment or promise made after the period has expired does not restart, revive or extend it.
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.