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Iowa Statute of Limitations

Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in Iowa. 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: 10 years (Iowa Code § 614.1(5)).
  • Oral Contracts: 5 years (Iowa Code § 614.1(4)).
  • Personal Injury: 2 years (Iowa Code § 614.1(2)).
  • Property Damage: 5 years (Iowa Code § 614.1(4)).

Iowa Statute of Limitations by Claim Type

Claim Type Time Limit Statute Notes
Written Contracts 10 years Iowa Code § 614.1(5) Accrues on the date of breach.
Oral Contracts 5 years Iowa Code § 614.1(4) Accrues on the date of breach.
Personal Injury 2 years Iowa Code § 614.1(2) Accrues on the date of injury. Discovery rule applies.
Property Damage 5 years Iowa Code § 614.1(4) Accrues when damage occurs.
Medical Malpractice 2 years Iowa Code § 614.1(9) 2 years from the date of the act, with a discovery rule. 6-year statute of repose from the act.
Debt Collection 10 years Iowa Code §§ 614.1(4), 614.1(5) Written debts: 10 years. Oral debts: 5 years.
Fraud 5 years Iowa Code § 614.1(4) 5 years from discovery of the fraud.

General Notes for Iowa

Iowa has one of the longest limitation periods for written contracts at 10 years. The discovery rule applies to personal injury and medical malpractice claims. Iowa has a 6-year statute of repose for medical malpractice.

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    Written debts have a 10-year statute of limitations, while oral debts have a 5-year limit.

  • How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Iowa?

    You have 2 years from the date of injury, though the discovery rule may apply if the injury was not immediately known.

  • Does Iowa toll the statute for minors?

    Yes. The statute is tolled for minors until they reach age 18, up to a maximum additional period of 1 year after reaching majority.

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