How to Answer a Summons for Credit Card Debt

Your answer is a short legal document responding to each allegation in the complaint. Filing it on time keeps the case alive and forces the plaintiff to prove its claims. Here's the anatomy of a solid answer.

Respond to each paragraph

For every numbered allegation, choose: admit, deny, or deny for lack of knowledge. When in doubt, deny — the plaintiff bears the burden of proof, not you.

Add affirmative defenses

• Statute of limitations expired
• Plaintiff lacks standing (can't prove ownership)
• Failure to state a claim / account stated not established
• Improper service of process

File and serve

File the original with the court clerk, keep a stamped copy, and mail a copy to the plaintiff's attorney. Do it before the deadline on your summons.