Statute of Limitations Calculator (US States)
Find how long you have to sue in any US state for personal injury, medical malpractice, property damage, fraud and breach of a written or oral contract — and the approximate last day to file.
For general information only — not legal advice. Laws vary by location; consult a qualified lawyer.
How to use
- 1Pick the state whose law applies (usually where the injury happened or the contract was made or performed).
- 2Choose the type of claim and the date it happened.
- 3See the time limit and the approximate last day to file — then talk to a lawyer well before it.
How it's calculated
Deadline ≈ date of the incident (or breach) + the state's period. Discovery rules, a defendant leaving the state, or the claimant being a minor can extend it; government claims can shorten it drastically.
Frequently asked questions
When does the clock start?
Usually on the date of the injury or breach. Many states apply a discovery rule for fraud and malpractice, so the clock starts when you knew or should have known about the harm.
What about children?
In most states the clock is paused (tolled) until a minor turns 18, though malpractice claims often have their own shorter caps.
Is it different for claims against the government?
Yes. Suing a city, county, state or federal agency usually needs a formal notice of claim within a much shorter window — sometimes 30 to 180 days.
What about criminal cases or debt collection?
This calculator covers civil lawsuits only. Debt collection limits usually follow the contract type (written, oral or open account), and criminal limits are set separately.