The length of time that various types of accounts and records can stay on your credit reports can vary. Understanding these timelines is essential for managing your credit history effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the typical durations for different types of entries on your credit reports:

1. Bankruptcies:
   • Chapter 7 bankruptcies can remain on your credit reports for up to 10 years.
   • Chapter 13 bankruptcies can be reported for up to 7 years.
2. Criminal Records (Indictments and Arrests):
   • Most criminal records, such as indictments and arrests, can be reported for up to 7 years or until the statute of limitations expires.
3. Delinquent Accounts:
   • Delinquent accounts can stay on your credit reports for 7 years from the date of your last scheduled payment before the account became delinquent.
4. Accounts Charged Off or Sent to Collections:
   • Accounts that have been charged off or sent to collections typically have the same 7-year reporting period.
5. Reporting of Last Activity:
   • Creditors are required to report the last date of activity to the credit bureaus. This should occur within 90 days of reporting an account as charged off.
6. Starting Point for the 7-Year Period:
   • The 7-year period begins 180 days after the first missed payment that leads to an account becoming delinquent.
7. Accounts Sold to Collection Companies:
   • The 7-year reporting period does not reset when an account is sold to a collection company. The original delinquency date remains significant.
8. Overdue Child Support:
   • Overdue child support payments can be reported on your credit reports for up to 7 years.
9. Inquiries:
   • Inquiries made by creditors in response to your credit applications typically remain on your credit reports for 2 years.
10. Student Loans:
    • Student loans guaranteed or insured by the government can be reported for longer than 7 years. Perkins loans, for example, can be reported until they are paid off.
11. Other Accounts:
    • Most other types of accounts and records are usually reported for 7 years.

Understanding these timelines can help you make informed decisions about managing your credit and finances. It’s essential to regularly review your credit reports to ensure that the information is accurate and up-to-date, especially if you are working to improve your credit history.