Tennessee: debt time limits
How long a creditor or debt collector has to sue you over credit card debt, written and oral contracts, and promissory notes.
| Credit cards and open accounts | 6 years |
|---|---|
| Written contracts | 6 years |
| Oral contracts | 6 years |
| Promissory notes | 6 years |
| Law | Tenn. Code 28-3-109 |
The clock usually starts at your last payment. In many states a new payment or a written promise to pay can restart it. Once the deadline passes a collector cannot win a lawsuit, but the debt can still appear on your credit report for up to 7 years. Federal student loans have no deadline.
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in Tennessee.
Also for Tennessee: Small claims limits in Tennessee · Claim deadlines in Tennessee · Car insurance by state in Tennessee · Final paycheck rules in Tennessee · Shared fault rules in Tennessee · Lemon law rules in Tennessee
How we checked this
Periods come from a statute-cited 2026 law-firm chart and match two other 2026 consumer finance tables. Where courts have not settled how credit cards are classified, both periods are shown. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site Single detailed source one detailed table built from statutes or official data Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.