How long can a cunsumer reporting agency reporting unfavorable information?

When I worked in debt management they told us it is 7 years from the last time the lender had any type of person to person communication with you about the debt. the second you talk to the lender about the debt again that 7 year clock starts all over again. Bottom line don't call the lender you owe the money too, and screen all your calls so you know who is calling before you speak to them.