Statute-barred
debt checker
Being chased for an old debt? Check if it's too old to be enforced through the courts.
Instant Check
Enter dates and see immediately if the limitation period has expired.
UK Law Based
Covers England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland limitation periods.
Free Letter Template
Get a 'prove it' letter to send to debt collectors.
Statute-Barred Debt Checker
Check if a debt is too old to be enforced through the courts.
The last time you (or anyone) made a payment towards this debt.
If you wrote to the creditor acknowledging you owe the debt after the last payment.
Limitation periods
Common questions
What does statute-barred mean?
A debt becomes statute-barred when the limitation period expires (usually 6 years in England/Wales, 5 in Scotland). The creditor can no longer take you to court to recover it.
Can I still be contacted about a statute-barred debt?
Technically yes, but they cannot threaten court action or mislead you into thinking the debt is enforceable. If they do, report them to the Financial Ombudsman.
What restarts the clock?
Making ANY payment (even £1) or acknowledging the debt in writing restarts the entire limitation period. Never do this if you think a debt might be statute-barred.
Free debt help
StepChange: 0800 138 1111 (free). Citizens Advice: citizensadvice.org.uk. National Debtline: 0808 808 4000.
Debt collector won't stop?
Generate a professional cease-and-desist letter citing the Limitation Act. Free to start.
Start Your Free ComplaintRelated
Other places this tool comes in handy - plus the companies most likely to be on the receiving end.