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The Daily Insight Hub

How long are judgments valid in Texas?

Author

Sophia Koch

Updated on January 25, 2026

ten years
Judgments issued in Texas with a non-government creditor are generally valid for ten years but they can be renewed for longer. If a judgment is not renewed, it will become dormant. You can attempt to revive a dormant judgment in order to continue to try and collect the debt.

What is the maximum time a creditor has to enforce a judgment in Texas?

The statute of limitations on debt in Texas is four years.

How many times can a Judgement be renewed in Texas?

A judgment creditor can renew the court’s judgment against you every 10 years.

What happens if I can’t pay a Judgement in Texas?

If you are sued and can’t pay, the creditor can get a judgment in court against you for the money you owe, plus interest. Being “judgment proof” means that your property and income can’t be seized by creditors, because it is “exempt” by law from the creditor’s claims.

What is exempt from a Judgement in Texas?

Much of a judgment debtor’s property in Texas is exempt (in other words, safe) from seizure by creditors, even those with a judgment. For a single person, $30,000, and for a married person, $60,000 of personal property is exempt from seizure. Cash in bank accounts or under your mattress is not exempt.

How long does a lien judgment Stay recorded on your property in Texas?

How long does a judgment lien last in Texas? A judgment lien in Texas will remain attached to the debtor’s property (even if the property changes hands) for ten years.

What happens to a Judgement after 10 years?

Money judgments automatically expire (run out) after 10 years. To prevent this from happening, you as the judgment creditor must file a request for renewal of the judgment with the court BEFORE the 10 years run out. When the judgment is renewed, the interest that has accrued will be added to the principal amount owing.

What is the Statute of limitations in Texas?

Sec. 16.004. FOUR-YEAR LIMITATIONS PERIOD. (a) A person must bring suit on the following actions not later than four years after the day the cause of action accrues: (1) specific performance of a contract for the conveyance of real property;

Is there Statute of limitations on debt collection in Texas?

In Texas, legal actions to collect a judgment are not limited by the same four-year statute of limitations that govern collection efforts. If this concerns you, consult a Dallas debt relief attorney who can review your situation to determine your best legal options for fighting a debt collection lawsuit.

Is there a statute of limitations on a judgment?

After a creditor wins a lawsuit against a debtor and is awarded a judgment by the court, there is a time limit for collecting that judgment.

When does a judgment lien end in Texas?

(a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), a judgment lien continues for 10 years following the date of recording and indexing the abstract, except that if the judgment becomes dormant during that period the lien ceases to exist.