Whether you have fallen behind on your credit card payment or other bills, you may be wondering about your rights and how long debt collectors have to collect on that debt. What if the debt is old? Can a debt collector still attempt to collect on this unpaid bill? Watch this video to find out the answers to your questions.
Virginia Does Have a Statute of Limitations on Debt Collection
In Virginia, there is a statute of limitations, also known as the length of time debt collectors have to recover the unpaid debt. In a written contract, debt collectors generally have a five-year period to try and collect or take legal action. However, a three-year period applies for oral contracts.
If the debt collectors don’t file a lawsuit against you within that three-year or five-year period, then the statute of limitations on debt has run out and you are not obligated to pay. If debt collectors are still attempting to collect money from you after this time period, they may be in violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and you can sue a debt collector.
If You’re Being Harassed Illegally by a Debt Collector, We Can Help
To learn more about your rights or to file a lawsuit against a debt collector, call The Consumer Law Group at 804-282-7900 or complete the form on this page to request a consultation.