Manitoba debt limitation period: when a creditor can sue
Quick summary
In Manitoba, a creditor generally has 2 years from when it discovers the claim to start a court case, and never more than 15 years. A signed acknowledgement of the debt or a part payment can restart the 2 years. Next step: see how collectors must behave.
Checked November 2, 2026. Main source: Manitoba, The Limitations Act (C.C.S.M. c. L150). Checked November 2, 2026.. See all 2 sources.
The rule in Manitoba
| Part | What the law says | Section |
|---|---|---|
| Basic period | 2 years to start a court case | 6 |
| When it starts | When the claimant knew, or should have known, that a loss happened, that the person caused it, and that going to court is the right step | 7 |
| Longest period | 15 years from the act or omission, even if the basic period has not run out | 10 |
| Restarting the clock | A signed written acknowledgement, or a part payment on a debt | 20 |
| Changing it by agreement | It can be made longer in writing, not shorter. The 15 years cannot be extended | 24 |
Source: Manitoba, The Limitations Act (C.C.S.M. c. L150). The section numbers are from that Act. Checked November 2, 2026.
What can restart the clock
- A written acknowledgement of the debt that you or your agent signs and gives to the creditor, its agent or a bankruptcy trustee. It must be made before the period runs out.
- A part payment on a debt has the same effect as an acknowledgement.
- The acknowledgement counts even if you do not promise to pay.
Source: Manitoba, The Limitations Act, section 20. Checked November 2, 2026.
What this means in practice
Before you pay a small amount or sign anything on an old debt in Manitoba, ask a lawyer or legal aid office whether it could restart the clock. Collectors may ask for a small payment, and the law says a part payment can count.
We cannot tell you when the clock started on your debt. It depends on your facts.
This is not your credit report clock
The Act limits when a creditor can start a court case. It does not set how long a collection shows on your credit report. Equifax says 6 years from the first missed payment, even if you pay.
Other provinces
This page covers Manitoba only. Other provinces and territories have their own laws and may use different time limits and rules. Check your province's law or ask a legal aid office. We will add provinces once we have read each law ourselves.
Questions people ask
What is the limitation period for debt in Manitoba?
Generally 2 years from the day the claim is discovered, and never more than 15 years from the act or omission.
Does a part payment restart the limitation period in Manitoba?
Yes, under section 20 of the Limitations Act, a part payment on a debt has the same effect as an acknowledgement, which restarts the period.
Does the debt disappear after the limitation period?
The Act limits starting a court case. It says nothing about your credit report, which has its own rules. Ask a lawyer about your own debt.
Can a creditor extend the limitation period?
A written agreement can make it longer but not shorter. The 15 year limit cannot be extended by agreement.
Does this apply outside Manitoba?
No. Other provinces have their own laws. Check yours or ask a legal aid office.