How long can creditors pursue a debt in Massachusetts?
William Jenkins
Updated on February 08, 2026
six years
The Massachusetts statute of limitations is six years for any debt, regardless of whether it is a credit card debt, written contract or oral agreement.
Can unsecured credit card debt be collected?
California has a statute of limitations of four years for all debts except those made with oral contracts. This means that for unsecured common debts like credit card debt, lenders cannot attempt to collect debts that are more than four years past due.
Can you go to court for unsecured debt?
Unsecured Debts. Unsecured creditors such as credit card companies and most trade creditors must first sue you and win a money judgment against you before they grab your income and property. That’s called being “judgment proof.”
What is the statute of limitations on unsecured debt?
Statute of Limitations on Debt by State
| State | Written Contract | Collection of Debt on Account |
|---|---|---|
| California | 4 | 4 |
| Colorado | 3 | 6 |
| Connecticut | 6 | 6 |
| Delaware | 3 | 3 |
How often can a debt collector leave a message?
The new rule specifies that third-party debt collectors can call you once daily, but if they actually speak to you, they cannot call again for at least seven days. In addition, you can ask them to stop calling you and they must comply.
What are the regulations for debt collection in Massachusetts?
The Attorney General has issued debt collection regulations that establish standards by defining unfair and deceptive acts and practices for the collection of debt from Massachusetts consumers.
Is it illegal to sue a debt collector in Massachusetts?
If you live in Massachusetts and you’re dealing with a debt collector, or you’re facing a collection lawsuit, it’s important to know what debt collectors can and can’t do. Under Massachusetts law, certain collection tactics are illegal.
What are the laws for the collection of debt?
Debt Collection Laws. Requires collectors to verify all debts and end collection procedures if verification is not forthcoming. While the original creditors are not covered by the provisions of the act, all third-party bill collectors and lawyers who are regularly engaged in the collection of debts are covered.
Is it legal for a debt collector to collect?
Debt Collection Laws. Although collectors are legally entitled to attempt to collect all owed debts, they are restricted in the methods they can employ by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.
