How long does bad credit history last?

The length of time negative information remains on a person's credit history ranges from seven to 10 years. A bankruptcy has the longest-running implications, as it stays for 10 years. Other items, lawsuits and judgments, and paid tax liens stay on a credit report for seven years.

Delinquent accounts also remain for seven years from the last payment scheduled, according to Nolo. Overdue child support payments stay for seven years as well. Items sent to collection stay for seven years plus an additional 180 days from delinquency. Government-backed student loan delinquency can actually stay on well past seven years based on the point of the originating report.