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Georgia Statute of Limitations

Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in Georgia. The statute of limitations varies by claim type. Once the deadline passes, you generally cannot file suit.

Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026

Key Takeaways

  • Written Contracts: 6 years (Ga. Code § 9-3-24).
  • Oral Contracts: 4 years (Ga. Code § 9-3-25).
  • Personal Injury: 2 years (Ga. Code § 9-3-33).
  • Property Damage: 4 years (Ga. Code § 9-3-30).

Georgia Statute of Limitations by Claim Type

Claim Type Time Limit Statute Notes
Written Contracts 6 years Ga. Code § 9-3-24 Accrues on the date of breach.
Oral Contracts 4 years Ga. Code § 9-3-25 Accrues on the date of breach.
Personal Injury 2 years Ga. Code § 9-3-33 Accrues on the date of injury.
Property Damage 4 years Ga. Code § 9-3-30 Accrues when damage occurs.
Medical Malpractice 2 years Ga. Code § 9-3-71 2 years from the act, with a 5-year statute of repose. Foreign object discovery rule extends to 1 year from discovery.
Debt Collection 6 years Ga. Code §§ 9-3-24, 9-3-25 Written debts: 6 years. Oral debts: 4 years.
Fraud 4 years Ga. Code § 9-3-26 4 years from discovery of the fraud.

General Notes for Georgia

Georgia distinguishes between written contracts (6 years) and oral contracts (4 years). The state has a 5-year statute of repose for medical malpractice claims. Tolling applies for minors (until age 18) and legally incompetent persons.

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the statute of limitations for debt in Georgia?

    Written debts have a 6-year statute of limitations, while oral debts have a 4-year limit. Credit card debts are typically treated as written obligations.

  • How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Georgia?

    Georgia allows 2 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.

  • Does Georgia have a statute of repose for medical malpractice?

    Yes. Georgia has a 5-year statute of repose from the date of the negligent act, regardless of when the injury is discovered.

Legal Disclaimer: FreeNetLaw provides general legal information, not legal advice. The information on this site is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed attorney. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify information with official sources and consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.

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