Debt Collectors
Old debts, statute-barred claims, doorstep visits, threatening letters. UK law limits what a debt collector can do, and it's tighter than they want you to know. Force the collector to prove the debt, or drop it.
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What's a statute-barred debt?
Under the Limitation Act 1980, most consumer debts in England and Wales become unenforceable after six years of no payment or written acknowledgement. Scotland uses a five-year rule. Statute-barred means no court will enforce it - they can ask, but they can't take you to court.
Can I just ignore a debt collector letter?
Not always safest. If the debt is genuine and not statute-barred, ignoring escalates. If it's disputed or barred, put your position in writing so their next step becomes evidence of harassment or unfairness. FightingBack drafts either letter.
Do debt collectors have to prove the debt?
Yes if you ask. Under FCA CONC 7.5 the collector must be able to evidence the debt. If they can't produce the original credit agreement, statement or assignment paperwork, they must stop collection activity.
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