# Colorado statute of limitations on debt

> In Colorado, the statute of limitations on a written contract is 6 years under §§ 13-80-101(1)(a), 13-80-103.5(1)(a), C.R.S.. Periods for oral contracts, open accounts and promissory notes.

- Source: https://ottoforfirms.com/statute-of-limitations/colorado/
- Publisher: Otto — https://ottoforfirms.com
- Updated: 2026-07-26

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In Colorado, the statute of limitations on a written contract is 6 years under §§ 13-80-101(1)(a), 13-80-103.5(1)(a), C.R.S..

**Rule.** A written contract claim in Colorado must be brought within 6 years.

**Authority.** [§§ 13-80-101(1)(a), 13-80-103.5(1)(a), C.R.S.](https://content.leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs2024-title-13.pdf)

| Contract type | Limitations period |
| --- | --- |
| Written contract | 6 yr |
| Oral contract | 6 yr |
| Open account | — |
| Promissory note | 6 yr |

## When does the clock start?

Six years after the cause of action accrues, which for a liquidated consumer debt is the date of default on the obligation.

## What pauses it?

§ 13-80-118 stops the clock while the defendant is out of state and not subject to service, or is concealed; §§ 13-81-101 and 13-81-103 govern claimants under disability.

Last reviewed 2026-07-26

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This is an informational reference, not legal advice, and using it creates no attorney-client relationship. Limitations periods turn on facts this page cannot know — which state's law governs, the contract type, when the claim accrued, and whether anything tolled or revived it. Confirm against the primary source and your own counsel before acting.