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How long can you legally be chased for debt in the UK?

Tue 17th Feb 2026
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In the majority of cases, a creditor will have six years under the Limitation Act 1980 to commence proceedings against the debtor for an unpaid debt. The limitation period will run from the date of the cause of action (usually, the date the debt became due). If a claim is not brought within this period, it will become statute-barred and can no longer be pursued through the civil courts.

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