Michigan Statute of Limitations
Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in Michigan. 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 (Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5807(8)).
- Oral Contracts: 6 years (Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5807(8)).
- Personal Injury: 3 years (Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5805(2)).
- Property Damage: 3 years (Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5805(2)).
Michigan Statute of Limitations by Claim Type
| Claim Type | Time Limit | Statute | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Contracts | 6 years | Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5807(8) | Accrues on the date of breach. |
| Oral Contracts | 6 years | Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5807(8) | Same period as written contracts. |
| Personal Injury | 3 years | Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5805(2) | Accrues on the date of injury. Discovery rule applies. |
| Property Damage | 3 years | Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5805(2) | Accrues when damage occurs. |
| Medical Malpractice | 2 years | Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5838a | 2 years from the act or 6 months from discovery, whichever is later. 6-year statute of repose. |
| Debt Collection | 6 years | Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5807(8) | 6 years for all debt types. |
| Fraud | 6 years | Mich. Comp. Laws § 600.5813 | 6 years from the date of the act or 2 years from discovery, whichever is later. |
General Notes for Michigan
Michigan provides 6 years for contract claims and 3 years for most tort claims. Medical malpractice has a unique structure: 2 years from the act or 6 months from discovery, whichever is later, subject to a 6-year statute of repose. Michigan requires a notice of intent before filing a medical malpractice lawsuit.
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the statute of limitations for debt in Michigan?
Michigan allows 6 years for creditors to sue on debts, whether written or oral.
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How does Michigan's medical malpractice statute work?
You have 2 years from the date of the act or 6 months from when you discovered the injury, whichever gives you more time. However, the absolute outer limit is 6 years from the date of the act.
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What is a notice of intent in Michigan medical malpractice cases?
Michigan requires plaintiffs to send a notice of intent to the healthcare provider at least 182 days before filing a medical malpractice lawsuit. This notice tolls the statute of limitations.