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Wisconsin Statute of Limitations

Time limits for filing civil lawsuits in Wisconsin. 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 (Wis. Stat. § 893.43).
  • Oral Contracts: 6 years (Wis. Stat. § 893.43).
  • Personal Injury: 3 years (Wis. Stat. § 893.54).
  • Property Damage: 6 years (Wis. Stat. § 893.52).

Wisconsin Statute of Limitations by Claim Type

Claim Type Time Limit Statute Notes
Written Contracts 6 years Wis. Stat. § 893.43 Accrues on the date of breach.
Oral Contracts 6 years Wis. Stat. § 893.43 Same period as written contracts.
Personal Injury 3 years Wis. Stat. § 893.54 Accrues on the date of injury. Discovery rule applies.
Property Damage 6 years Wis. Stat. § 893.52 Accrues when damage occurs.
Medical Malpractice 3 years Wis. Stat. § 893.55 3 years from the date of the act or 1 year from discovery, whichever is later. 5-year statute of repose.
Debt Collection 6 years Wis. Stat. § 893.43 6 years for all debt types.
Fraud 6 years Wis. Stat. § 893.93(1)(b) 6 years from discovery of the fraud.

General Notes for Wisconsin

Wisconsin provides 6 years for contract claims and 3 years for personal injury. Medical malpractice has a unique structure providing the later of 3 years from the act or 1 year from discovery, with a 5-year statute of repose. The discovery rule applies broadly in Wisconsin.

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

    You have 3 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in Wisconsin.

  • How does Wisconsin handle medical malpractice?

    Wisconsin provides the later of 3 years from the act or 1 year from discovery, with a 5-year statute of repose as an outer limit.

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