How long before a debt is wiped off.

[kloofnek]

I heard that after seven years a debt is written off.
Anyone know if this is correct?

[pink-kittens]

depends on a lot of things and what exactly the debe was
I dont think it is 'wrriten off' per se either - I'm sure someone will come along and explain further

[ChuckFickens]

It 6 years, but only if no contact has been made from the people you owe money to.

and moving house so they can't find you does not count as no contact, if they have written you a letter that is contact even if you didn't receive it.

[bednobs]

debts are never "written off" You still owe the money. After six years, if there has been no correspondance regarding the debt (taking into account Chuck's point) then it becomes unenforceable by a court, but the person owed can still chase you for it and ask you to pay it. If it's a mortgage debt, the time becomes 12 years

[hc4361]

Am I the only one that thinks a debt written off is the same as 'gaining pecuniary advantage' or theft?

[bednobs]

well probably, because as i said, debt aren't ever "written off" unless the creditor decides to do it

[factor-fiction]

It also depends on who the debt is with. Whilst many debts can become statute barred in certain circumstances as posters have said, some debts never become statute barred.
What type of debt was it?

[kloofnek]

Thanks all...it is as I thought...had a disagreement with a friend who was saying about it being "written off"" after so many years...I was right all along!!

[factor-fiction]

If you are referring to this matter :
http://www.theanswerb.../Question1028640.html
then this debt certainly doesn't have a chance of becoming 'statute barred' for a long time yet

[kloofnek]

A credit card debt.

[sandyRoe]

I've a feeling the credit card people would chase you into the next life for debt if they could.

[factor-fiction]

They do, sandyroe- or at least they pursue your estate

[ummmm]

Do you/they own their own home?

My ex had a charge put on our house over an unpaid CC debt. I didn't find out about it until the house was sold.

[kloofnek]

,no assets to speak of...