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Is it legal for a debt collector to not notify you of a debt from 7 years ago?

Is it legal for a debt collector to not notify you of a debt from 7 years ago?

Q: How can I stop a debt collector from contacting me?

You can stop a debt collector from contacting you by sending them a written request to cease communication. Once they receive your request, they are legally obligated to stop contacting you, except to inform you of any further actions they may take. Make sure to keep a copy of your request for your records.

Q: What should I do if I receive a notice for an old debt?

If you receive a notice for an old debt, first verify the age of the debt. If it is beyond the Statute of Limitations, you can inform the debt collector that you are not obligated to pay it. You may also choose to consult with a legal professional for guidance on how to respond and protect your rights.

Full question:

Is it legal for a debt collector to not notify you of a debt from 7 years ago?

Category: Debts and Credit
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Pennsylvania

Answer:

If the debt is barred by the Statute of Limitations that is a defense and you could advise them not to contact you again or you will file a claim under the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act if the debt is barred.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What happens if a debt collector contacts me about an old debt?

If a debt collector contacts you about a debt that is older than seven years, you can inform them that the debt is beyond the Statute of Limitations. This means they cannot legally sue you for this debt. You also have the right to request that they stop contacting you. If they continue to reach out after your request, you may have grounds to file a complaint under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.

Can I be sued for a debt that is seven years old?

Generally, if a debt is over seven years old, it is likely beyond the Statute of Limitations, which means a creditor cannot sue you to collect it. However, this can vary by state, so it's important to check your state's specific laws regarding debt collection. If you are unsure, consulting with a legal professional can provide clarity on your situation.

What is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that regulates how debt collectors can operate. It prohibits abusive, deceptive, and unfair practices in debt collection. Under this law, you have rights, including the ability to request that a debt collector stop contacting you. If they violate these rules, you may be able to take legal action against them.