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Missouri Statute of Limitations

Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in Missouri. 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 (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.110).
  • Oral Contracts: 5 years (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120).
  • Personal Injury: 5 years (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120).
  • Property Damage: 5 years (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120).

Missouri Statute of Limitations by Claim Type

Claim Type Time Limit Statute Notes
Written Contracts 10 years Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.110 Accrues on the date of breach.
Oral Contracts 5 years Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120 Accrues on the date of breach.
Personal Injury 5 years Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120 Accrues on the date of injury.
Property Damage 5 years Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120 Accrues when damage occurs.
Medical Malpractice 2 years Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.105 2 years from the act or from discovery. 10-year statute of repose.
Debt Collection 10 years Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 516.110, 516.120 Written debts: 10 years. Oral debts: 5 years.
Fraud 5 years Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120 5 years from discovery of the fraud.

General Notes for Missouri

Missouri has a long 10-year statute for written contracts and a 5-year period for most other civil claims. Medical malpractice has a shorter 2-year period with a 10-year statute of repose. The discovery rule applies to medical malpractice and fraud claims.

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

  • How long do I have for a personal injury claim in Missouri?

    Missouri allows 5 years for personal injury claims, longer than most states.

  • Does Missouri have a discovery rule?

    Yes. The discovery rule applies to medical malpractice and fraud claims, but the 10-year statute of repose for medical malpractice sets an outer limit.

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