New Hampshire Statute of Limitations
Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in New Hampshire. 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: 3 years (N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4).
- Oral Contracts: 3 years (N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4).
- Personal Injury: 3 years (N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4).
- Property Damage: 3 years (N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4).
New Hampshire Statute of Limitations by Claim Type
| Claim Type | Time Limit | Statute | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Contracts | 3 years | N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4 | Accrues on the date of breach. |
| Oral Contracts | 3 years | N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4 | Same period as written contracts. |
| Personal Injury | 3 years | N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4 | Accrues on the date of injury. Discovery rule applies. |
| Property Damage | 3 years | N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4 | Accrues when damage occurs. |
| Medical Malpractice | 2 years | N.H. Rev. Stat. § 507-C:4 | 2 years from the act or from discovery. Pre-suit screening panel required. |
| Debt Collection | 3 years | N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4 | 3 years for all debt types. |
| Fraud | 3 years | N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4 | 3 years from discovery of the fraud. |
General Notes for New Hampshire
New Hampshire uses a uniform 3-year statute of limitations for most civil claims. Medical malpractice has a shorter 2-year period and requires pre-suit screening. The discovery rule applies broadly in New Hampshire.
Related Resources
- Small claims court in New Hampshire
- Free legal aid in New Hampshire
- Consumer complaints in New Hampshire
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the general statute of limitations in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has a general 3-year statute of limitations for most civil claims, including contracts, personal injury, and debt collection.
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How does New Hampshire handle medical malpractice?
Medical malpractice claims have a 2-year statute of limitations and must go through a pre-suit screening panel before filing in court.
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Does New Hampshire apply the discovery rule?
Yes. New Hampshire applies the discovery rule broadly, meaning the statute does not begin to run until the plaintiff discovers or should have discovered the injury.