How Long Can A Debt Be Collected?

by Jo
(New Orleans,La)

It is true that after (7) seven years a collection agency can no longer force you to pay off a debt?

Reply from DebtCollectionAnswers.com:
You are likely mixing up two different things. Collection accounts may be reported on your credit reports for seven years and 180 days from the date you first fell behind with the original creditor. After that they cannot be reported, even if you did not pay them. (Unless the creditor or collector gets a judgment against you, which has it's own reporting period.)

Each state also has a statute of limitations which governs how long a collector can successfully sue you. According to our resources, in Louisiana that period is three years for credit card debts. We are not attorneys and cannot confirm that information is correct, however, so if you are concerned about the statute of limitations, please consult a consumer law attorney.