What happens if a debt becomes Statute Barred?
The clock is ticking on your side.
Under the Limitation Act 1980, most unsecured debts (cards, loans, overdrafts) become 'Statute Barred' after 6 years if you haven't paid or acknowledged them. Once barred, the creditor legally cannot take you to court for a CCJ. The debt still exists, but they can't force you to pay it.
1 The Typical Timeline
If you take no action, this is the standard statutory process. Timescales are approximate but typical for 2026.
The Danger Zone
Creditor can pursue legal action (CCJ) at any time.
Last Ditch Attempt
Creditors often try one last aggressive push before the 6-year deadline.
Statute Barred
The debt becomes legally invalid for enforcement. You can write to them stating 'The debt is Statute Barred'.
2 Free Calculators & Checks
Calculate exactly how close you are to the 6-year safety line.
Statute Barred Checker
Is your debt too old to be collected?
Check which actions accidentally restart the 6-year clock.
Statute Barred: Don't Reset The Clock!
Any of these actions resets the 6-year limitation period to zero.
Does it disappear from my credit file?
Yes, but separately. Defaults fall off your credit file 6 years after the DEFAULT date. Statute Barred status depends on the last PAYMENT/ACKNOWLEDGEMENT date. Usually they align, but not always.
Exceptions
Council Tax (6 years from date of Liability Order), Mortgage Shortfalls (12 years), and Income Tax (No limit) have different rules.
Summary of Options
Do NOT Acknowledge
Writing 'I owe this money' or making a £1 payment RESTARTS the 6-year clock from zero. Silence is golden.
Check limitation period
Use the calculator to see if you have crossed the line.
Common Questions
Can they still ask for the money?
Technically yes, they can send letters asking you to pay. But if you reply 'This is Statute Barred', they must stop enforcement. They cannot get a CCJ.
What if they get a CCJ before the 6 years?
Then it never becomes Statute Barred. A CCJ effectively confirms the debt forever (though enforcement requires permission after 6 years).