Debt Collection in Ohio
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.
Ohio: the numbers that matter
Statute of limitations — written contract
6 years
Ohio's statute of limitations on a written contract is 6 years (§ 2305.06, 2021 amendment; the limit was 15 years, then 8, now 6). Sources still publishing '8 years' are stale. Oral contracts are also 6 years (§ 2305.07).
Sources
This guide references Ohio's statutes and rules of court, plus public legal-aid resources. Specific statute figures for Ohio 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.
Go deeper with the attorney-ready Debt Collection Rights Guide pack.
See inside · Coming soon