What is the statute of limitations for medical bill collection?
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What is the statute of limitations for medical bill collection?
I was sent a bill from a collections agency regarding old medical bills from between 6-11 years ago. I called the creditor and stated that I was unaware of these bills and asked why I was being asked to pay since all but one are older than 7 years. The creditor stated that the hospital has no statute of limitations. I checked all 3 of my credit reports and the only bill listed is from 6 years ago; it was only listed on 1 of the 3 reports. Since the bills are so old and are not listed on my credit report, am I obligated to pay them? Can they put these bills back on my credit report?
Asked on June 21, 2012 under Bankruptcy Law, California
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Under the laws of most states in this country the statute of limitations for a creditor to file a lawsuit for breach of contract or a common count cause of action (services rendered but not paid for) is four (4) years. From what you have written, the medical bill that you have written about is time barred.
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