Florida debt defense

Sued for Debt in Florida? Here’s What to Do.

You have 20 days to respond.

Florida gives you 20 days from the date you were served.

Statute of limitations

5 years in Florida

Florida’s statute of limitations on debt is 5 years, codified at Fla. Stat. § 95.11(2)(b). The clock typically runs from: date of last payment.

If the time-bar has run, the debt may not be legally collectible in court — but you generally have to raise the defense yourself. It is not raised automatically.

Your rights

What Florida law gives you

Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act (Fla. Stat. §§ 559.55-559.785) gives you state-level protections beyond federal debt-collection law.
Florida debt buyers must provide proof of ownership and a complete assignment chain.
Florida courts enforce arbitration clauses in credit card agreements under the Federal Arbitration Act.
Cases in Florida are heard in Florida Circuit Court.

The one thing most people miss

Key fact

Florida's Consumer Collection Practices Act (FCCPA) gives you additional rights beyond federal law — including the right to sue a debt collector for harassment, false statements, or unfair practices.

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