DON’T LET TIME RUN YOU OVER — Run Out the Clock on Old Debt!

Written By Myrah Del Rosario

If you’ve been contacted by a debt collector about an old debt, your first question should be:
Is this debt even legally enforceable anymore?

In California, there are clear statutes of limitations that protect consumers from being sued over time-barred debts. But the rules can be confusing—and creditors may still try to collect even when they no longer have the legal right to do so.

At R23 Law, our California Consumer Protection Attorneys help clients fight back against unlawful collection attempts, especially when the debt is beyond the statute of limitations.

What Is a Statute of Limitations on Debt?

The statute of limitations is the legal time limit for creditors to sue you over an unpaid debt. In California:

🕒 The statute of limitations for most consumer debt is four (4) years.

This countdown typically begins from the date of your last payment or the last time you acknowledged the debt in writing. Once this period expires, the debt is considered “time-barred,” and the collector cannot sue you to force repayment.

However, you still owe the debt—they just can't take you to court over it.

What Happens If You Make a Payment on Old Debt?

Be cautious. Making even a small payment or agreeing that you owe the debt may restart the statute of limitations clock—giving the creditor a new four-year window to file a lawsuit.

Before making any payments, speak with a qualified attorney at R23 Law. We’ll review whether your debt is time-barred and advise you on your rights.

Can a Collector Still Call You About Old Debt?

Yes—and this is where things get tricky.

Collectors are legally allowed to contact you about old debt, but:

  • They cannot sue you once the statute of limitations has expired

  • They must disclose that the debt is time-barred under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)

If a collector threatens legal action, misrepresents the status of your debt, or pressures you into payment on expired debt, they may be violating federal or California law.

R23 Law’s debt collection harassment attorneys can help you:

  • Stop illegal calls

  • File complaints under the FDCPA or Rosenthal Act

  • Seek financial damages for harassment or misrepresentation

What Are Your Rights If You're Harassed Over Time-Barred Debt?

If a collector keeps calling, threatening, or misleading you after the statute has expired, you may have grounds for legal action. Our legal team can help you:

  • File cease and desist letters

  • Collect evidence of harassment

  • Sue under consumer protection laws to recover damages and stop further abuse

When to Contact R23 Law

If you’re receiving calls or letters about a debt that’s years old, don’t guess—get the facts.

R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys are ready to:

  • Review whether the debt is time-barred

  • Protect you from harassment or false threats

  • Help you dispute and resolve old debts legally and strategically

📞 Call us today for a free consultation
 🖊️ Or submit your case online to speak with a dedicated legal advocate

R23 Law California Debt Collection Defense & Consumer Protection Lawyers
 Know your rights. Stop the harassment. Protect your peace of mind.

Myrah Del Rosario
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