Tennessee Statute of Limitations
Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in Tennessee. 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 (Tenn. Code § 28-3-109(a)(3)).
- Oral Contracts: 6 years (Tenn. Code § 28-3-109(a)(3)).
- Personal Injury: 1 year (Tenn. Code § 28-3-104(a)(1)).
- Property Damage: 3 years (Tenn. Code § 28-3-105).
Tennessee Statute of Limitations by Claim Type
| Claim Type | Time Limit | Statute | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Contracts | 6 years | Tenn. Code § 28-3-109(a)(3) | Accrues on the date of breach. |
| Oral Contracts | 6 years | Tenn. Code § 28-3-109(a)(3) | Same period as written contracts. |
| Personal Injury | 1 year | Tenn. Code § 28-3-104(a)(1) | One of the shortest in the nation. Accrues on the date of injury. |
| Property Damage | 3 years | Tenn. Code § 28-3-105 | Accrues when damage occurs. |
| Medical Malpractice | 1 year | Tenn. Code § 29-26-116 | 1 year from the date of the negligent act or from discovery. 3-year statute of repose. |
| Debt Collection | 6 years | Tenn. Code § 28-3-109(a)(3) | 6 years for all debt types. |
| Fraud | 3 years | Tenn. Code § 28-3-105 | 3 years from discovery of the fraud. |
General Notes for Tennessee
Tennessee has one of the shortest personal injury statutes of limitations in the nation at just 1 year. Contract claims benefit from a 6-year period. Medical malpractice has a 1-year statute with a 3-year statute of repose. Pre-suit notice is required for medical malpractice claims.
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why is Tennessee's personal injury statute so short?
Tennessee allows only 1 year from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit, one of the shortest periods in the country. It is critical to consult an attorney immediately after any injury.
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What is the statute of limitations for debt in Tennessee?
Tennessee allows 6 years for creditors to sue on debts, whether written or oral.
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How does Tennessee handle medical malpractice?
Medical malpractice claims must be filed within 1 year of the act or discovery, with a 3-year statute of repose. Tennessee requires 60 days pre-suit notice to the healthcare provider.