Immani Blog

From Immani — Kenya's dispute resolution infrastructure.

Someone has owed me money for years and refuses to pay — what can I do about old debts?

September 20, 2026
Key Takeaway

Don't let old debts weigh you down. Immani offers a faster, simpler alternative to traditional court processes.

Someone has owed me money for years and refuses to pay — what can I do about old debts? — Immani lets you file a dispute against their phone number for KSh 100. When someone owes you money and won't respond, it can be frustrating and stressful. You've tried calling, texting, and even visiting them, but they just ignore you. The usual advice is to go to court, but that can take months or even years, and it's expensive. For many everyday disputes, there's a faster option. Here's how Immani works in this specific context:

  1. You file a dispute against the debtor's phone number, describing what happened and how much they owe you. This costs KSh 100.
  2. Both you and the debtor are notified immediately, and you have a short private window to respond and engage directly.
  3. If there's no response, the dispute becomes visible to anyone who looks up that phone number within Immani, which tends to prompt a reply.
  4. The dispute only closes when both sides confirm they have engaged and reached an understanding. Closing the dispute costs KSh 3,000. What happens next? If the debtor responds, you can negotiate a payment plan or settlement. If they don't respond, you can take further action, like sending a formal demand letter or seeking help from a qualified advocate. Immani and Immani Legal AI are not law firms and do not provide legal advice. This post is general information, not legal advice for your specific situation. For complex cases, consult a qualified advocate.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immani and Immani Legal AI are not law firms and do not provide legal representation. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For legal advice specific to your situation, consult a qualified advocate licensed to practice in Kenya.

Ready to file a dispute?

File directly against the other person's phone number. No login required. KSh 100 to file.

Immani is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. For complex cases or cases involving significant amounts, consider consulting a qualified advocate.

See how it works   File a dispute now

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the statute of limitations for debt collection in Kenya?

In Kenya, the statute of limitations for debt collection is 6 years from the date the debt became due.

Can I use Immani to collect debts from someone who lives in a different country?

No, Immani is only for disputes involving parties in Kenya.

How long does it take to resolve a dispute on Immani?

The length of time it takes to resolve a dispute on Immani varies, but it's generally faster than traditional court processes.

Can I use Immani to collect debts from a company or business?

Yes, Immani can be used to collect debts from companies or businesses in Kenya.

What if the debtor doesn't respond to the dispute on Immani?

If the debtor doesn't respond, the dispute becomes visible to anyone who looks up that phone number within Immani, which tends to prompt a reply.

Can I get free legal information about my situation?

Yes. Immani Legal AI gives you answers based on Kenyan law — the Constitution, statutes, and case law. You can also draft legal documents, compare your case with precedents, and look up legal terms in plain language. It is free to use. Try Immani Legal AI →

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