Walk It Through: The Old Bill
Five years on a contract and ten on a writing to pay, a quarter of a week's pay at most, and small claims.
A collection letter arrives for a credit card balance from years ago that was never paid.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
One old bill and one collector. Which period fits a particular card agreement, support orders, and tax debts are not worked through here.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- GarnishmentTaking part of a week's earnings, at most a quarter after required withholding, or a tenth for a Missouri resident who is the head of a family, whichever is least.
- Statute of limitationsThe time to sue: five years on most contracts and injuries, and ten years on any writing for the payment of money or property.