Is an old debt time-barred?
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Detailed explanation, checklist and sources
The limitation period depends on the type of claim. A timely written demand, legal proceedings, acknowledgement or part payment may cause the period to start again.
General information about Dutch law · Review date not recorded · How we work
On this page
Choose the correct period
Consumer purchases and energy often have a two-year period; many services, rent, loans, wages and damages have a five-year period. A court judgment may remain enforceable for twenty years.
Check interruption
Request all reminders and proof of sending. A valid interruption before the end may cause a new period to begin. Acknowledgement or part payment may also have consequences.
Invoke limitation in writing
Limitation does not always take effect automatically in your correspondence. Clearly state that you invoke it and request closure of the file, without unintentionally acknowledging the debt.
Your checklist
Prepare your next stepFill in and save · Word
Tick what you have checked or collected. Note what is missing and take your overview to a meeting.
Unless saved in My overview: Your entries stay only on this screen. Download before leaving; closing or reloading clears them. Do not enter identity numbers, passwords or unnecessary personal details.
What do you still need for your next step?
Item 1 / 6 · Where do you stand with this item?
Type of debt
This overview follows your own answers. It does not assess your rights or guarantee that your file is complete.
Your choices stay here. Use the buttons below if you want to save or download.
View all details, notes and timeline
Your timeline and evidence
List events and contacts. Note where you keep the evidence; no upload is needed.
What goes in my timeline?
Record what happened, when, the response and where to find the letter, message or photo. Mark uncertain dates.
Is my evidence sent?
No. You only note where it is kept. No files are uploaded or sent automatically.
How do I save my timeline?
Your entries are not saved automatically. Choose Save and continue later to store this preparation, including your timeline, in My overview. Wait for confirmation and save new changes again. You can also download a Word file without an account.
Up to 20 events. Choose a different position for an event to change the order.
0 / 6 · Checked or collected
For each event, note the date, what happened and where the evidence is kept. Example: 3 October — letter received — correspondence folder.
Describe the solution you would like, such as an explanation of a deduction and repayment of the outstanding amount.
For example: which document is missing, who can provide it and what should I do first?
Record the date and its source. If unknown, note this and check promptly. This tool does not calculate or monitor deadlines.
After your conversation
These are your own notes. Confirm agreements with the other person; these notes do not prove their agreement.
This is your preparation, not a submitted request, objection or legally reviewed document. A tick records only your own progress. Check the procedure and deadline in the original letter.
Save and continue later
Clear entries
Download anything you want to keep first. Clearing cannot be undone.
- Type of debt
- Original payment date
- All reminders
- Proof of sending interruption
- Part payments or acknowledgement
- Any judgment
Frequently asked questions
Does the period start again after every letter?
Only if the act legally qualifies as a valid interruption and took place in time.
Must the debt collection agency prove interruption?
If disputed, the creditor must substantiate that interruption occurred in time and validly.