Texas Statute of Limitations
Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in Texas. 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: 4 years (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.004).
- Oral Contracts: 4 years (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.004).
- Personal Injury: 2 years (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003).
- Property Damage: 2 years (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003).
Texas Statute of Limitations by Claim Type
| Claim Type | Time Limit | Statute | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Contracts | 4 years | Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.004 | Accrues on the date of breach. |
| Oral Contracts | 4 years | Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.004 | Same as written contracts in Texas. |
| Personal Injury | 2 years | Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003 | Accrues on the date of injury. Discovery rule may apply in limited circumstances. |
| Property Damage | 2 years | Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003 | Accrues when damage occurs or is discovered. |
| Medical Malpractice | 2 years | Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 74.251 | 2 years from the act or omission, with a 10-year statute of repose. Tolled for minors under 12. |
| Debt Collection | 4 years | Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.004 | 4 years for written and oral debts. Texas does not distinguish between the two. |
| Fraud | 4 years | Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.004 | Accrues when the fraud is discovered or should have been discovered. |
General Notes for Texas
Texas applies the discovery rule in limited circumstances, primarily in fraud and professional malpractice cases. The state has a general 4-year statute for most contract and property claims. Texas does not have a broad tolling provision for absence from the state.
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the statute of limitations for debt in Texas?
The statute of limitations for debt collection in Texas is 4 years, regardless of whether the agreement was written or oral. After 4 years from the last payment or acknowledgment, the debt is time-barred.
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Can a debt collector still contact me after the statute expires in Texas?
Yes. The statute of limitations only prevents a creditor from successfully suing. Debt collectors may still attempt to collect, but they cannot threaten to sue on a time-barred debt under the FDCPA.
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How long do I have for a personal injury claim in Texas?
You have 2 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas. The discovery rule may apply in limited circumstances where the injury could not reasonably have been discovered at the time.