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Minnesota Statute of Limitations

Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in Minnesota. 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 (Minn. Stat. § 541.05).
  • Oral Contracts: 6 years (Minn. Stat. § 541.05).
  • Personal Injury: 6 years (Minn. Stat. § 541.05).
  • Property Damage: 6 years (Minn. Stat. § 541.05).

Minnesota Statute of Limitations by Claim Type

Claim Type Time Limit Statute Notes
Written Contracts 6 years Minn. Stat. § 541.05 Accrues on the date of breach.
Oral Contracts 6 years Minn. Stat. § 541.05 Same period as written contracts.
Personal Injury 6 years Minn. Stat. § 541.05 Accrues on the date of injury. One of the longest in the nation.
Property Damage 6 years Minn. Stat. § 541.05 Accrues when damage occurs.
Medical Malpractice 4 years Minn. Stat. § 541.076 4 years from the date of the act. Discovery rule may extend this in limited circumstances.
Debt Collection 6 years Minn. Stat. § 541.05 6 years for all debt types.
Fraud 6 years Minn. Stat. § 541.05 6 years from discovery of the fraud.

General Notes for Minnesota

Minnesota provides a generous 6-year statute of limitations for most civil claims, including personal injury. Medical malpractice has a separate 4-year period. The discovery rule applies to fraud and certain medical malpractice claims.

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the statute of limitations for personal injury in Minnesota?

    Minnesota allows 6 years for personal injury claims, one of the longest periods in the nation.

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

    Minnesota allows 6 years for creditors to sue on debts, whether written or oral.

  • Does Minnesota have a separate medical malpractice statute?

    Yes. Medical malpractice claims must be brought within 4 years of the date of the act, a shorter period than the general 6-year tort statute.

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