§ 903 Debt Incurrence Timing Rules

Family Code·California

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Key Takeaways

•A debt starts when you agree to pay for something (like signing a contract).
•If someone hurts you or breaks your stuff, the debt starts right when it happens.
•For anything else, the debt starts when you have to pay or do something.

Example

You sign a contract to buy a phone and agree to pay in 3 months.

The debt starts right when you sign the contract, not when you pay later.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 903 Debt Incurrence Timing Rules

A debt is “incurred” at the following time: (a) In the case of a contract, at the time the contract is made. (b) In the case of a tort, at the time the tort occurs. (c) In other cases, at the time the obligation arises. (Enacted by Stats. 1992, Ch. 162, Sec. 10. Operative January 1, 1994.)

Last verified: January 21, 2026

Key Terms

incurred contract tort obligation

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Family Code. Section 903.

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Key Terms

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Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References