July 20, 2025

Greetings!

If you've ever missed a payment, had a debt go to collections, or filed for bankruptcy, you know how tough it can be to climb back financially. Even when you're doing everything right now, the past can hang over your head like a raincloud.

So today, let's clear up one of the most common questions: How long do negative marks stay on your credit report?


Be Well,
Anisa

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1. Most negative items stick around for 7 years.

Late payments, delinquent accounts, and charge-offs typically stay on your report for 7 years from the date they were first reported late. It doesn't reset if it's sold or changes hands. The clock starts from that first missed payment.

2. Collection accounts hang on for even longer.

When an unpaid debt goes to collections, it stays on your report for 7 years plus 180 days from the date the account became delinquent. That extra half-year gives the original lender time to try to collect before selling it off.

3. Chapter 7, 11, or 12 bankruptcy? That’s 10 years.

Filing for bankruptcy is a big step, and the credit reporting agencies reflect that by keeping it on your record for a full 10 years after the filing date.

4. Chapter 13 is a bit more lenient.

This type of bankruptcy usually drops off after 7 years, though it can legally stay for up to 10. Most credit bureaus choose the shorter timeline, especially if you've completed your repayment plan.

5. Paid tax liens? 7 years. Unpaid ones? Forever.

If you’ve had a tax lien and you paid it off, it should disappear after 7 years from the date it was filed. But if it’s unpaid, it can stay on your report indefinitely. That’s why it’s so important to resolve any tax issues as quickly as possible.

In Closing...

Your credit report is like a diary of your financial life, but thankfully, it's not written in permanent ink. Most negative marks will fall off with time, and every on-time payment you make now helps rebuild your score. If you're on the right path today, the past doesn't get the final say.

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