New Jersey Statute of Limitations on Debt Collection

The statute of limitations is an established rule that sets a time limit within which a creditor is able to sue you for payment of a debt. The amount of time that a creditor has to sue you is different for each state and if the time that is allowed by your state has passed, a creditor is unable to sue you for the debt. In New Jersey:

• Conversion of an instrument for money: 3 years, (N.J.S.A.12A: 3-118(g))
• Demand Notes when no demand is made: 10 years
  • Foreign judgments: 20 years (unless period in originating jurisdiction is less), (2A: 14- 5)
  • If demand made: 6 years (12A: 3-118(b))
• Judgments: 20 years, renewable, (2A: 14-5)
• Obligations under seal for the payment of money only, except bank, merchant, finance company or other financial institution: 16 years, (N.J.S.A. 2A: 14-4) actions for unpaid rent if lease agreement is under seal, (N.J.S.A. 2A: 14-4)
• Real estate: 20 years, (N.J.S.A. 2A: 14-7)
• Real or personal property damage, recovery and contracts not under seal: 6 years (N.J.S.A. 2A: 14-1)
• Unaccepted drafts: 3 years from date of dishonor or 10 years from date of draft, whichever expires first, (12A: 3- 118(c))

If you want to get any more information or if you have questions about the Statute of Limitations in New Jersey, contact The Consumer Advocacy Center at 312-782-5808.