Use this debt collection guide to build a clear demand letter for Cincinnati.
Cincinnati Debt Collection Rights: Your Complete Guide to Recovering Money Owed
When someone owes you money and refuses to pay, whether it is a friend who borrowed funds, a customer who has not paid an invoice, or a former tenant who owes back rent, the frustration can be immense. As a Cincinnati resident or business owner, understanding how to effectively collect debts is essential for protecting your financial interests. Ohio law and Hamilton County courts provide the tools you need to recover what you are owed.
Debt collection situations arise in many contexts. Perhaps you provided services and were never paid. Maybe you loaned money to a friend or family member who now avoids your calls. You might be a small business owner with outstanding invoices, a landlord with a former tenant who owes rent, or a contractor whose customer has not made final payment. Whatever your situation, the principles of debt collection are similar: document what is owed, demand payment formally, and pursue legal remedies if necessary.
This comprehensive guide is designed specifically for Cincinnati-area residents and businesses who are owed money and seeking to collect. We will examine Ohio's legal framework for debt collection, including the statutes governing personal loans, business debts, and judgment enforcement. We will walk you through the process of documenting your claim, sending effective demand letters, and pursuing cases in Hamilton County courts. From understanding interest calculation to knowing how to execute on judgments, this resource provides everything you need.
It is important to distinguish between collecting debts that are owed to you personally and the activities of professional debt collection agencies. This guide focuses on the former, when you as an individual or business are seeking to recover money someone owes you. If you are being pursued by a debt collector, different laws such as the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act apply to protect you as a consumer.
At its core, collecting a debt is about enforcing an agreement. When someone promises to pay you, whether through a written contract, invoice, promissory note, or verbal agreement, and then fails to follow through, the law provides mechanisms to compel payment. Understanding these mechanisms and using them effectively can mean the difference between writing off a loss and recovering what you are rightfully owed.
Ohio Debt Collection Law: Understanding Your Rights in Cincinnati
Ohio provides a robust legal framework for creditors seeking to collect legitimate debts. Understanding these laws helps Cincinnati residents and businesses effectively pursue what they are owed.
Contract law forms the foundation of most debt collection efforts. A debt typically arises from an agreement, express or implied, where one party provides money, goods, or services with the expectation of payment. Ohio contract law enforces these agreements. Written contracts are preferable because they clearly document the debt terms, but oral agreements are also enforceable, albeit harder to prove. The key elements are an agreement to pay, the amount owed, and the debtor's failure to pay.
Promissory notes are formal debt instruments commonly used for loans. Under Ohio law, a promissory note is a written promise to pay a specified sum on demand or at a fixed future time. Notes may include interest provisions, payment schedules, and default terms. A properly drafted promissory note simplifies collection because it clearly documents the debt, the terms, and the parties' obligations.
Interest on debts in Ohio is governed by several statutes. The general legal rate of interest is 6% per year when no rate is specified (ORC 1343.01). Parties may agree to higher rates in writing, though usury laws impose some limits. For judgments, Ohio law provides for post-judgment interest at a statutory rate. Including interest calculations in your demand increases the total you may recover.
The statute of limitations for debt collection in Ohio varies by debt type. Written contracts have a six-year limitation period (ORC 2305.06). Oral contracts also have a six-year period under the same statute. Promissory notes are subject to a six-year period under ORC 1303.16. After the limitations period expires, the debt is not erased, but you lose the ability to sue to collect it. Understanding which limitations period applies and when it started running is crucial.
Ohio's small claims court, formally the Small Claims Division of Municipal Court, provides an accessible venue for debt collection up to $6,000. No attorney is required, procedures are simplified, and cases are resolved relatively quickly. For larger debts, Hamilton County Municipal Court handles claims up to $15,000, and the Court of Common Pleas handles claims exceeding that amount.
Once you obtain a judgment, Ohio provides various enforcement mechanisms. Wage garnishment (ORC Chapter 2329) allows you to collect a portion of the debtor's wages directly from their employer. Bank account garnishment allows you to seize funds in the debtor's bank accounts. Judgment liens can be placed on the debtor's real property. Understanding these post-judgment remedies is important because getting a judgment is only the first step; you must then collect on it.
Ohio Revised Code Chapter 2329 governs execution on judgments. After obtaining a judgment, you may obtain a certificate of judgment to create a lien on real property. You may also seek writs of execution to direct the sheriff to levy on the debtor's property. These mechanisms give teeth to court judgments.
For business debts, the Ohio Uniform Commercial Code (ORC Title 13) may apply, particularly for the sale of goods. The UCC provides remedies for buyers who do not pay for goods delivered and establishes standards for commercial transactions.
If the debtor is a business that has gone bankrupt, federal bankruptcy law preempts state collection efforts. You may need to file a proof of claim in the bankruptcy proceeding. Similarly, if the debtor files for personal bankruptcy, an automatic stay prevents collection efforts until the bankruptcy is resolved.
Understanding this legal framework helps Cincinnati creditors pursue collections effectively. Whether you have a simple personal loan or complex business debt, Ohio law provides the tools to recover what you are owed.
Step-by-Step Guide to Collecting Debts in Cincinnati
Successfully collecting a debt in Cincinnati requires a systematic approach that documents your claim, communicates clearly with the debtor, and pursues legal remedies when necessary. This guide walks you through the process.
Before taking any collection action, compile all evidence that establishes the debt. This includes: written contracts, loan agreements, or promissory notes; invoices, bills, or statements of account; emails, texts, or letters acknowledging the debt; records of goods or services provided; payment history showing what was paid and what remains outstanding; any communications where the debtor acknowledged owing money; and bank records showing funds transferred. The stronger your documentation, the better your position in negotiations and court.
Determine the precise amount the debtor owes. Start with the principal (original amount). Add any contractual interest that has accrued. Include late fees if your agreement provides for them. Note any partial payments that have been made. Your demand should state a specific dollar amount, so accuracy is important. If you are unsure about interest calculations, the statutory rate in Ohio is 6% annually when no rate is specified.
Before escalating to formal demands, make a reasonable effort to collect informally. Call or email the debtor asking for payment. Sometimes debts go unpaid due to oversight rather than intentional refusal. Keep records of these contacts. If the debtor responds with excuses or promises to pay later, document those communications. Set a reasonable deadline and if it passes without payment, proceed to formal collection.
A well-crafted demand letter often produces payment. Your letter should: identify you and the debtor; state the basis for the debt (contract, loan, services, etc.); specify the principal amount owed; include interest and fees if applicable with calculations shown; state the total amount demanded; set a deadline for payment (typically 10-14 days); explain that you will pursue legal action if payment is not received; and provide payment instructions. Send by certified mail with return receipt to create proof of delivery.
Before filing suit, realistically assess whether you can collect. Does the debtor have assets or income? Obtaining a judgment against someone who has nothing is often fruitless. Research whether the debtor owns real property (check Hamilton County Auditor records), is employed, or has bank accounts. If the debtor appears to be judgment-proof, you may need to decide whether the cost of litigation is worthwhile.
If the demand letter does not produce payment, file a lawsuit. For debts up to $6,000, use Hamilton County Small Claims Court. For $6,001 to $15,000, use Hamilton County Municipal Court. For larger amounts, file in the Court of Common Pleas. Bring your documentation, pay the filing fee, and complete the complaint form describing your claim. The debtor will be served with the complaint and given time to respond.
Whether the debtor responds or not, prepare for your court date. Organize your evidence logically. Prepare a clear, concise explanation of the debt: what was the agreement, what did you provide, what was the debtor supposed to pay, and what remains unpaid. If you have written documents, bring originals and copies. If witnesses can support your claim, arrange for their appearance.
Appear at your scheduled hearing. Dress appropriately and arrive early. Present your case clearly: explain the debt, show your documentation, state the amount owed including calculations. If the debtor does not appear, you may receive a default judgment. If the debtor appears and disputes the debt, the judge will hear both sides and make a decision.
If you win, the court will enter a judgment in your favor. The judgment does not automatically result in payment. If the debtor does not pay voluntarily within the specified time (usually 30 days), you must pursue collection remedies. Options include: wage garnishment (filing with the debtor's employer to withhold a portion of wages); bank garnishment (seizing funds from the debtor's bank accounts); property liens (placing a lien on real property the debtor owns); and execution (having the sheriff seize and sell the debtor's personal property). The court clerk can provide information about these procedures.
Ohio judgments are enforceable for five years and can be renewed. If you cannot collect immediately, you can wait and attempt collection when the debtor's circumstances change. Monitor for changes like new employment, property purchases, or other indicators of ability to pay.
Building Your Case: Essential Evidence for Cincinnati Debt Collection
The success of your debt collection effort depends significantly on the evidence you can present. Courts require proof that a debt exists, its amount, and the debtor's failure to pay. Here is a comprehensive guide to the evidence you should gather.
The best evidence of a debt is a written document establishing the obligation:
If you have a written agreement, this is your primary evidence. Keep the original in a safe place and bring copies to court.
For business debts and service-related obligations:
Documentation showing you fulfilled your part of the agreement:
Records showing what has been paid and what remains:
Correspondence that may acknowledge the debt or show collection attempts:
Any indication that the debtor recognized the debt:
Documentation supporting amounts beyond the principal:
For loans to individuals:
Organize your evidence chronologically and create a summary showing the timeline of the debt, from creation through demand. For court, prepare organized copies you can present to the judge while retaining originals.
- Signed contracts or agreements
- Promissory notes
- Loan agreements
- Service contracts
- Purchase orders
- Written acknowledgment of debt
- Invoices sent to the debtor
- Statements of account
- Billing records
- Records of charges
- Past-due notices sent
- Credit application if one was completed
- Delivery receipts signed by the debtor
- Work orders or service records
- Photographs of completed work
- Time records for services provided
- Materials receipts
- Project documentation
- Payment receipts
- Bank records showing payments received
- Check copies (front and back)
- Credit card transaction records
- Payment ledger or account history
- Records of partial payments made
- Emails discussing the debt
- Text messages about payment
- Letters sent and received
- Written promises to pay
- Response to your demand letter
- Notes of phone conversations (with dates and summaries)
- Written acknowledgment of amounts owed
- Requests for payment plans
- Promises to pay by certain dates
- Partial payments (which can imply acknowledgment)
- Communications admitting the debt exists
- Interest calculation showing rate, time period, and amount
- Late fee provisions in your agreement
- Itemized statement showing how total was calculated
- Any prior statements showing accrued amounts
- Any written acknowledgment of the loan
- Bank records showing transfer of funds to the debtor
- Check copies
- ATM withdrawal records if cash was given
- Witness statements if money was given in the presence of others
- Copy of your demand letter
- Certified mail receipt
- Return receipt (green card) showing delivery
- Any response received from the debtor
- Property records from Hamilton County Auditor
- Information about debtor's employment
- Knowledge of bank accounts
- Vehicle registrations
- Business ownership records
Critical Deadlines for Cincinnati Debt Collection
Understanding the statutes of limitations and other deadlines that apply to debt collection in Ohio is essential. Missing these deadlines can result in losing your ability to collect through legal means.
Ohio's statutes of limitations vary by the type of debt:
The limitations period typically begins when the debt becomes due, the debtor defaults, or the last payment is made (in some cases). After the period expires, the debt still exists, but you generally cannot sue to collect it.
In some circumstances, the limitations period may be paused (tolled) or restarted:
Understand these rules before relying on them, as they have specific requirements.
When sending a demand letter:
After filing suit:
If the debtor files bankruptcy:
Do not let significant debts age toward the limitations deadline without taking action. The longer you wait, the harder collection typically becomes.
- Written contracts: 6 years (ORC 2305.06)
- Oral contracts: 6 years (ORC 2305.06)
- Promissory notes: 6 years (ORC 1303.16)
- Open accounts: 6 years
- Judgments: 5 years, renewable (ORC 2329.07)
- Partial payment: Making a payment may restart the limitations period on some debts
- Written acknowledgment: A written acknowledgment of the debt may restart the clock
- Debtor's absence from Ohio: The period may toll while the debtor is out of state
- Debtor's concealment: If the debtor conceals themselves to avoid collection
- Allow 10-14 days for response as a standard practice
- This is not a legal requirement but establishes reasonable expectations
- After the deadline passes, you may proceed with legal action
- The debtor must be served with the complaint
- Service must typically occur within a specified period (usually 6 months)
- The debtor has time to file an answer (typically 28 days after service)
- If the debtor does not respond, you may seek default judgment
- Judgments in Ohio are enforceable for 5 years (ORC 2329.07)
- Judgments can be renewed for additional 5-year periods
- Wage garnishment continues until the judgment is satisfied or expires
- Judgment liens on real property last 5 years and can be renewed
- An automatic stay immediately halts all collection efforts
- You must stop any pending collection activities
- You may file a proof of claim in the bankruptcy case
- The stay remains until the bankruptcy court lifts it or the case concludes
- Debt becomes due: Limitations period begins
- 30-60 days past due: Informal collection efforts
- 60-90 days: Formal demand letter
- 90+ days: Consider legal action
- Before 6 years: Must file suit to preserve claim
Common Mistakes Cincinnati Creditors Make in Debt Collection
Many Cincinnati residents and businesses make avoidable errors when trying to collect debts, reducing their chances of recovery or creating legal problems. Understanding these mistakes can help you collect more effectively.
1. Not Having Written Documentation:
The most common problem is lending money or extending credit without written documentation. Oral agreements are legally enforceable but difficult to prove. Without a written contract, promissory note, or at least a text or email confirming the terms, you face an uphill battle in court. Always document loans and credit arrangements in writing before providing funds or goods.
2. Waiting Too Long to Pursue Collection:
Many creditors extend multiple courtesies and give debtors chance after chance to pay. While patience is reasonable initially, excessive delay hurts your position. Memories fade, evidence disappears, debtors may lose assets or move away, and you risk running up against the statute of limitations. Start formal collection efforts within 60-90 days of non-payment.
3. Not Sending a Formal Demand Letter:
Some creditors go directly from informal requests to lawsuits without sending a formal demand letter. A demand letter often produces payment because it signals seriousness. It also creates documentation that you made efforts to resolve the matter before litigation. Courts may look more favorably on creditors who attempted to resolve disputes before filing suit.
4. Not Keeping Records of Communications:
When you call or communicate with a debtor about payment, keep records. If you only have oral conversations with no documentation, you have no proof of what was discussed. Keep copies of emails, screenshot texts, note the dates and content of phone calls, and save any written responses.
5. Violating Collection Laws:
While the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act applies primarily to third-party debt collectors, original creditors can still face consequences for harassment or improper collection tactics. Do not threaten actions you cannot legally take, do not contact debtors at unreasonable times or places, and do not make false statements about the debt. Even when you are rightfully owed money, improper collection tactics can backfire.
6. Suing in the Wrong Court or Wrong Jurisdiction:
Filing in the wrong court can cause delays or dismissal. For debts up to $6,000, Hamilton County Small Claims Court is appropriate. Know the jurisdictional limits and ensure you file in a court with authority over the debtor (typically where they live or where the transaction occurred).
7. Not Verifying Debtor's Ability to Pay:
Before spending time and money on litigation, assess whether the debtor has assets or income to pay a judgment. Winning a judgment against someone who has nothing is a hollow victory. Research property records, consider what you know about the debtor's employment, and make a realistic assessment.
8. Accepting Partial Payment Without Agreement:
If a debtor offers partial payment without a written agreement about the remaining balance, you may create confusion about what is still owed. When accepting partial payments, get written acknowledgment of the remaining balance and continued obligation to pay.
9. Not Calculating Interest Properly:
Ohio allows interest on debts, but calculation can be complex. If your agreement specifies an interest rate, use that. If not, the statutory rate is 6% per year. Incorrect interest calculations can undermine your claim or result in reduced awards.
10. Giving Up After Getting a Judgment:
Obtaining a judgment is not the end of the process. Many creditors do not follow through with collection remedies like garnishment. If the debtor does not pay voluntarily, pursue wage garnishment, bank levies, or property liens. Judgments can be renewed, so even if collection is not possible now, you can try again later when circumstances change.
11. Not Considering Collection Costs:
Filing fees, service costs, garnishment fees, and time spent on collection add up. For very small debts, the cost of collection may exceed recovery. Consider whether the debt is worth pursuing and whether you can recover costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Debt Collection in Cincinnati
In Ohio, the statute of limitations for debt collection is generally six years for both written and oral contracts (ORC 2305.06). For promissory notes, it is six years from the due date or demand (ORC 1303.16). Once the limitations period expires, you generally cannot sue to collect, though the debt itself does not disappear. It is important to identify when the limitations period began (usually when the debt became due or when the last payment was made) and take action before it expires.
Ohio small claims court has a jurisdictional limit of $6,000. For debts up to this amount, you can file in Hamilton County Small Claims Court without an attorney. The filing fee is modest, procedures are simplified, and cases are heard relatively quickly. For debts between $6,000 and $15,000, you would file in Hamilton County Municipal Court. For larger amounts, the Court of Common Pleas is appropriate.
Yes. If your written agreement specifies an interest rate, that rate applies. If no rate was agreed upon, Ohio's statutory interest rate is 6% per year (ORC 1343.01). You can include accrued interest in your demand and lawsuit. After obtaining a judgment, post-judgment interest accrues at the statutory rate until the judgment is paid. Include your interest calculations as part of your documentation.
First, document the debt thoroughly. Send a formal demand letter by certified mail setting a deadline for payment. If payment is not received, file a lawsuit in the appropriate Hamilton County court (Small Claims for up to $6,000). If you obtain a judgment and the debtor still does not pay, pursue collection remedies such as wage garnishment, bank account garnishment, or property liens. Persistence is often required.
After obtaining a judgment, you can seek wage garnishment by filing the appropriate paperwork with the court. You will need to identify the debtor's employer. The court issues an order requiring the employer to withhold a portion of the debtor's wages and send them to you. Ohio limits garnishment to 25% of disposable earnings or the amount by which weekly income exceeds 30 times the minimum wage, whichever is less. The Hamilton County court clerk can provide garnishment forms and procedures.
Yes, but it is more difficult. Oral agreements are enforceable in Ohio, but you must prove the agreement existed, its terms, and the debtor's failure to perform. Look for any written evidence that supports the oral agreement: emails, texts, bank records showing money transferred, witness testimony, or any acknowledgment by the debtor. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim.
When a debtor files bankruptcy, an automatic stay immediately halts all collection efforts. You must stop any pending lawsuits or garnishments. You may file a proof of claim in the bankruptcy case to participate in any distribution to creditors. Many debts are discharged in bankruptcy, meaning you will not be able to collect them. However, some debts (like those obtained through fraud) may survive bankruptcy. Consult with an attorney if a debtor files bankruptcy.
Ohio judgments are enforceable for five years from the date of entry (ORC 2329.07). Before the five years expires, you can renew the judgment for additional five-year periods. This allows you to continue collection efforts if the debtor's circumstances change. If you do not renew, the judgment becomes dormant and eventually expires. Set a reminder to renew before the deadline if the debt remains unpaid.
What to Expect When Collecting Debts in Cincinnati
Understanding realistic expectations for debt collection helps Cincinnati creditors navigate the process effectively. The outcome of your collection effort depends on various factors, including the amount owed, the documentation you have, and the debtor's ability and willingness to pay.
Many debts are resolved through demand letters and negotiation without going to court. When debtors receive formal demand letters threatening legal action, many will pay or negotiate a settlement rather than face a lawsuit. The key is demonstrating that you are serious and have documentation to support your claim. Demand letters with specific amounts, deadlines, and references to legal consequences are most effective.
Negotiation often results in settlements for less than the full amount owed. Debtors who cannot pay in full may offer lump sum settlements or payment plans. Consider whether accepting less than the full amount is preferable to the cost and uncertainty of litigation. A smaller amount received promptly may be worth more than a larger amount you may never collect.
In Hamilton County courts, debt collection cases are generally straightforward if you have good documentation. Small claims court provides a fast, informal process for debts up to $6,000. If the debtor does not appear, you typically receive a default judgment. If the debtor appears and disputes the debt, you will need to present your evidence. Having organized documentation significantly increases your chances of success.
Obtaining a judgment is often easier than collecting on it. Many debtors who owe money do not have readily attachable assets. Wage garnishment only works if the debtor is employed. Bank garnishment only works if you can locate the debtor's accounts. Property liens only matter if the debtor owns real property and eventually sells or refinances. Be prepared for collection to be a process, not a single event.
Some debts are uncollectible as a practical matter. Debtors who are unemployed, have no assets, or live on exempt income (like Social Security) may be judgment-proof. While you can obtain a judgment and renew it, you may not be able to actually collect. In these cases, the debt may eventually be written off, though you could attempt collection later if circumstances change.
Timelines for debt collection vary. A demand letter allows 10-14 days. Filing and service of a lawsuit takes 2-4 weeks. Court hearings are typically scheduled 4-8 weeks after filing in small claims court. Post-judgment collection can be quick (if the debtor has accessible assets) or prolonged (if you must wait for circumstances to change). Simple cases may be resolved in 2-3 months; complex situations may take much longer.
For Cincinnati creditors, success in debt collection comes from thorough documentation, timely action, persistence in pursuing remedies, and realistic expectations about outcomes. Not every debt will be fully collected, but many debtors will pay when faced with determined, legally compliant collection efforts.
Cincinnati Debt Collection Resources and Contacts
Cincinnati and Hamilton County residents seeking to collect debts have access to various resources. Here are the key agencies, courts, and organizations available.
1. Hamilton County Municipal Court - Small Claims Division:
For debt collection cases up to $6,000.
- Address: 1000 Main Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
- Phone: (513) 946-5200
- Website: www.courtclerk.org
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Filing fees: Approximately $40-75
- No attorney required
2. Hamilton County Municipal Court - Regular Division:
For debt cases from $6,001 to $15,000.
- Address: 1000 Main Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
- Phone: (513) 946-5200
- Website: www.courtclerk.org
3. Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas:
For debt cases exceeding $15,000.
- Address: 1000 Main Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
- Phone: (513) 946-5656
- Website: www.courtclerk.org
4. Hamilton County Auditor:
For property records to identify debtor assets.
- Address: 138 East Court Street, Room 402, Cincinnati, OH 45202
- Phone: (513) 946-4000
- Website: www.hamiltoncountyauditor.org
- Property search available online
5. Hamilton County Sheriff:
For service of process and execution on judgments.
- Civil Division: (513) 946-6420
- Address: 1000 Main Street, Room 110, Cincinnati, OH 45202
- Services: Service of complaints, execution on judgments, sheriff's sales
6. Cincinnati Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service:
For finding a collections attorney.
- Phone: (513) 381-8213
- Website: www.cincybar.org
- Services: Referrals to attorneys handling debt collection
7. Legal Aid Society of Greater Cincinnati:
For low-income residents with legal questions.
- Phone: (513) 241-9400
- Website: www.lascinti.org
- Note: Primarily assists debtors facing collection, but may provide general information
8. Ohio Secretary of State:
For business entity searches.
- Website: www.sos.state.oh.us
- Services: Business filings, registered agent information for business debtors
9. Ohio Attorney General:
For consumer protection information.
- Website: www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov
- Phone: 1-800-282-0515
These resources provide support for Cincinnati creditors pursuing debt collection. Using the appropriate court and following proper procedures increases your chances of recovering what you are owed.
The Debt Collection Playbook
Proof is Power
Contracts, invoices, texts, emails… gather all evidence of the debt.
Time is Your Ally (and Their Enemy)
Interest accrues. Late fees may apply. The longer they wait, the more they may owe.
Track Every Penny
Principal, interest, late fees… don't miss a dollar.
The Debtor's Options
Many states allow you to recover collection costs, including attorney fees in some cases. Know your rights.
Ohio Debt Collection Laws
Applicable Laws
- FDCPA
- Ohio Consumer Sales Practices Act - ORC § 1345
Small Claims Limit
$6,000
Consumer Protection Agency
Ohio AG / CFPB
Collection Combat FAQ
When should I send a demand letter?
After the second broken payment promise. Don't let them string you along indefinitely.
What if they ignore my demand?
Small claims court is your next step. The filing fee is often recoverable, and you don't need a lawyer.
How do I prove they owe me money?
Contracts, invoices, text messages, emails, bank transfers, promissory notes, or witness statements all help prove the debt.
Can I charge interest?
Yes, if your contract includes interest terms. Even without a contract, many states allow pre-judgment interest on debts.
What about collection costs?
Many contracts allow recovery of collection costs and attorney fees. Check your agreement and state law.
Is there a time limit to collect?
Yes. Statutes of limitation vary by state and debt type, typically 3-6 years. File suit before the deadline expires.
What if they claim they already paid?
Demand proof. Bank records, cancelled checks, or receipts should show payment. If they can't prove it, they still owe you.
About FreeDemandLetter
FreeDemandLetter provides free, AI-powered demand letter generation with location-specific legal citations. Our content is reviewed by subject matter specialists and regularly updated to reflect current laws. We help thousands of people resolve disputes effectively—but we're not lawyers, and this isn't legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.