Massachusetts § 52 - Information not to be contained in consumer report; exceptions
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 52 — Information not to be contained in consumer report; exceptions, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 52. Information not to be contained in consumer report; exceptions
Section 52. (a) Except as authorized under subsection (b) no consumer reporting agency shall make any consumer report containing any of the following items of information:
(1) Bankruptcies which, from date of adjudication of the most recent bankruptcy, antedate the report by more than fourteen years.
(2) Suits and judgments which, from date of entry, antedate the report by more than seven years or until the governing statute of limitations has expired, whichever is the longer period.
(3) Paid tax liens which, from date of payment, antedate the report by more than seven years.
(4) Accounts placed for collection or charged to profit and loss which antedate the report by more than seven years.
(5) Records of arrest, indictment, or conviction of crime which, from date of disposition, release, or parole, antedate the report by more than seven years.
(6) Any other adverse item of information which antedates the report by more than seven years.
(7) Eviction records sealed pursuant to section 16 of chapter 239.
(b) The provisions of subsection (a) are not applicable in the case of any consumer credit report to be used in connection with—
(1) a credit transaction involving, or which may reasonably be expected to involve, a principal amount of fifty thousand dollars or more; or
(2) the underwriting of life insurance involving, or which may reasonably be expected to involve, a face amount of fifty thousand dollars or more.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 52
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 52 cover?
Section 52 ("Information not to be contained in consumer report; exceptions") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 52?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 52" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 52 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.