Alabama Statute of Limitations
Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in Alabama. The statute of limitations varies by claim type. Once the deadline passes, you generally cannot file suit.
Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026Key Takeaways
- Written Contracts: 6 years (Ala. Code § 6-2-34).
- Oral Contracts: 6 years (Ala. Code § 6-2-34).
- Personal Injury: 2 years (Ala. Code § 6-2-38(l)).
- Property Damage: 6 years (Ala. Code § 6-2-34).
Alabama Statute of Limitations by Claim Type
| Claim Type | Time Limit | Statute | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Contracts | 6 years | Ala. Code § 6-2-34 | Accrues on the date of breach. |
| Oral Contracts | 6 years | Ala. Code § 6-2-34 | Same period as written contracts. |
| Personal Injury | 2 years | Ala. Code § 6-2-38(l) | Accrues on the date of injury. |
| Property Damage | 6 years | Ala. Code § 6-2-34 | Accrues when damage occurs. |
| Medical Malpractice | 2 years | Ala. Code § 6-5-482 | 2 years from the act or omission, or from discovery with a 4-year statute of repose. |
| Debt Collection | 6 years | Ala. Code § 6-2-34 | 6 years for written obligations; oral debts also 6 years. |
| Fraud | 2 years | Ala. Code § 6-2-38(l) | 2 years from discovery of the fraud. |
General Notes for Alabama
Alabama provides a relatively long 6-year period for contract and property claims. The discovery rule applies to fraud and medical malpractice claims. Tolling is available for minors and persons of unsound mind.
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the statute of limitations for debt in Alabama?
Alabama allows 6 years for creditors to sue on both written and oral debts, measured from the date of breach or last payment.
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Does Alabama apply the discovery rule?
Yes, Alabama applies the discovery rule for fraud and certain medical malpractice claims, meaning the clock starts when the plaintiff discovers or reasonably should have discovered the harm.
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Can the statute of limitations be tolled in Alabama?
Yes. Alabama tolls the statute of limitations for minors (under 19 in Alabama) and for persons of unsound mind until the disability is removed.