If a debt was never paid on the divorce settlement from 35 years ago, can I still collect?

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If a debt was never paid on the divorce settlement from 35 years ago, can I still collect?

It was for $10,000 divorce. My ex-spouse refused to pay and I just plain let it slip. I was making good money and I just failed to pursue it.

Asked on November 10, 2015 under Bankruptcy Law, Illinois

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 8 years ago | Contributor

If it is a 35 year old debt, it is too old to take legal action to enforce: even the longest potentially applicable "statute of limitations" (or time period within which you must sue) in your state, that for enforcing a jugment, is only 20 years. You can ask for payment, and maybe it will be voluntarily made; but if not, you do not appear to have recourse.


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