Legal Insights — EN

Assumption of Debt

Someone saying that they will pay another person's debt does not mean the original debtor is discharged in every case.
Transfer of a pouch-bearing metal disc representing debt between two stone plinths

Obligations and Debt Claims

Prepared by: Constantinople

Debt Claims

Someone saying that they will pay another person's debt does not mean the original debtor is discharged in every case. The internal agreement between debtor and third party, external assumption binding the creditor, and mere payment undertaking must be distinguished.

Distinguishing Internal and External Relationships

Articles 195 et seq. of the Turkish Code of Obligations regulate assumption of debt. The relationship with the creditor matters to substitution of a new debtor. The debtor's and third party's own contract does not automatically remove creditor rights. The creditor's consent, earlier correspondence, and payment conduct are assessed in the circumstances.

Distinguishing Suretyship and Guarantees

A promise concerning another's debt may constitute suretyship, accession to debt, or an independent guarantee. Their form and liability conditions differ. Mandatory provisions protecting third parties cannot be bypassed merely with another heading. Continuation of security and the original debtor's liability must be examined expressly.

The Payment Plan and Proper Defendant

The amount, interest, and expenses assumed by the new debtor must be identified. If enforcement against the original debtor has begun, the change's effect requires separate assessment. We compare the contractual chain and creditor's statements, showing in writing from whom each amount may be sought and on what ground. For a foreign-currency debt, the currency and payment election must also be specified.

Documents That May Be Prepared for the Initial Review

  • The assumption agreement or payment undertaking
  • Records of the creditor's consent
  • The original debt agreement
  • Security and payment documents

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Legal Grounds

Turkish Code of Obligations, Articles 195–204

Last content review: 11 November 2026.