How long can a debt collector attempt to collect a debt?

In Washington, a debt collector is legally allowed to attempt to collect a debt for a period of four years. This period begins on the date the debt was initially due or, if a payment was made, the date of the last payment. After these four years, the debt collector can no longer attempt to collect on the debt or take any other legal action against the debt. However, if the debtor voluntarily pays a portion of the debt or acknowledge the debt, then the four-year period is reset and the debt collector can once again attempt to collect the debt. As long as the debtor keeps paying and acknowledges the debt, the debt collector can keep attempting to collect and the debt is still considered valid under Washington law. Finally, Washington law states that any debt that is more than 10 years old cannot be enforced in court. This means that a debt collector cannot sue a debtor for a debt more than 10 years old. However, if the debt is legally enforceable and the debt collector can prove its validity in court, then the debt collector can continue to attempt to collect the debt after the 10-year period.

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How long can a debt collector attempt to collect a debt?

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