Debt Collection in New York
Plain-language legal information · Citations checked against primary sources · Sources linked below
Legal information, not legal advice. This is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Laws vary by state and change over time. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.
Federal and state protections
The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) describes practices that third-party debt collectors are prohibited from using, such as certain harassing or misleading conduct.
Many states add their own debt-collection protections. Requesting written validation of a debt is a right commonly described under federal law.
New York: the numbers that matter
Statute of limitations — consumer credit debt
3 years
New York's statute of limitations to sue on a consumer credit debt is 3 years (Consumer Credit Fairness Act, eff. April 7, 2022). Non-consumer written contracts remain 6 years. A collector who sues after the limitations period has run can be challenged — but beware the 'zombie debt' trap: a partial payment can restart the clock.
Sources
This guide references New York's statutes and rules of court, plus public legal-aid resources. Specific statute figures for New York are verified against primary sources, with the statute cite and check date shown on each figure. Always confirm current law with your state's official website or a licensed attorney.
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