due

Due refers to a definite obligation such as a debt or a claim of right, that is owed or payable. The term often means that the obligation is presently enforceable, but it can also indicate that the obligation has not been paid when required or that it will become payable at a future date. “Overdue” refers specifically to an obligation that has not been paid when due, while “payable” refers to an obligation that is owed but not yet required to be paid.

Due also means just, proper, and/or reasonable; e.g. due care, due diligence.

See also: due and owing, and due, owing, and unpaid.

[Last reviewed in September of 2025 by the Wex Definitions Team] 

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