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Sell a court judgment in California
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Short answer: In California, as in most states, a money judgment can usually be sold by assigning it to a buyer. Before you sell, check how much enforceable life the judgment has left, how interest accrues, and how the assignment is recorded. Facts below are marked verified only where we checked an official source.
Verification status: 4 of 4 topics checked against an official source. Not legal advice; verify with counsel.
How long does a judgment last, and can it be renewed?
A money judgment can't be enforced once 10 years have passed since entry (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 683.020). The creditor can renew it by filing an application before then, but not within 5 years of a previous renewal (§ 683.110).
Source: https://california.public.law/codes/ca_civ_proc_code_section_683.020. Checked October 2026.
What is the post-judgment interest rate?
Interest accrues at 10% a year on the unpaid principal (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 685.010(a)(1)). A lower rate applies to some judgments entered or renewed from January 1, 2023 under § 685.010(a)(2); read the section for which debts qualify.
Source: https://california.public.law/codes/ca_civ_proc_code_section_685.010. Checked October 2026.
How do you file an assignment of judgment?
An assignee becomes assignee of record by filing an acknowledgment of assignment of judgment with the clerk of the court that entered the judgment. It must be acknowledged like a real-property deed and executed by the judgment creditor or prior assignee of record (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 673). Judicial Council form EJ-100 is the court form.
Source: https://california.public.law/codes/ca_civ_proc_code_section_673. Checked October 2026.
Do judgment buyers and collectors need a license?
Debt collection in California requires a license under the Debt Collection Licensing Act, administered by the DFPI (Cal. Fin. Code § 100001).
Source: https://california.public.law/codes/ca_fin_code_section_100001. Checked October 2026.
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Can you sell a judgment in California?
Generally yes: money judgments are usually assignable, and the buyer files an assignment with the court that entered the judgment. Confirm California procedure and any licensing rules with counsel.
How long is a judgment valid in California?
A money judgment can't be enforced once 10 years have passed since entry (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 683.020). The creditor can renew it by filing an application before then, but not within 5 years of a previous renewal (§ 683.110).
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Information only, not legal, tax or accounting advice. Verify with counsel before acting. Price figures are third-party estimates, not offers. Last reviewed: October 2026.