Missouri Statute of Limitations: Filing Deadlines by Case Type (2026 Guide)

A comprehensive guide to Missouri's statute of limitations for civil claims. Find out how long you have to file a lawsuit for personal injury, breach of contract, medical malpractice, debt collection, property damage, and other claims under Missouri law.

Written by Daniel L. Simmons, J.D. · Last updated January 15, 2026

Fact-checked by the CourtDateCalculator.online legal editorial team. Reviewed for accuracy against Missouri Revised Statutes.

Table of Contents

  1. Overview of Missouri Deadlines
  2. Civil Statute of Limitations by Case Type
  3. Personal Injury Claims
  4. Contract Disputes
  5. Medical Malpractice
  6. Property Damage
  7. Debt Collection
  8. Wrongful Death
  9. Claims Against Government Entities
  10. Criminal Statute of Limitations
  11. Tolling and Exceptions
  12. Frequently Asked Questions

Overview of Missouri Statute of Limitations

Missouri's statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing lawsuits in both civil and criminal cases. These deadlines are codified primarily in the Missouri Revised Statutes (RSMo), Chapter 516, and vary depending on the type of claim. Missing a deadline can result in your case being dismissed, regardless of how strong your claim may be.

Missouri is notable for having one of the longest statute of limitations periods for written contracts among U.S. states — 10 years. The time limits for other claims range from 2 years for medical malpractice to 10 years for fraud and certain contract claims.

Key point: The statute of limitations clock typically starts on the date the injury occurred or the date the injury was discovered (or should have been discovered). Always verify the applicable deadline with a qualified Missouri attorney before relying on any general information.

Civil Statute of Limitations by Case Type

The following table summarizes the most common civil statute of limitations deadlines in Missouri. These are general time limits and special rules may apply depending on the specific facts of your case.

Case Type Statute of Limitations Missouri Code
Personal Injury 5 years RSMo § 516.120
Wrongful Death 3 years RSMo § 537.100
Breach of Written Contract 10 years RSMo § 516.110
Breach of Oral Contract 5 years RSMo § 516.120
Property Damage 5 years RSMo § 516.120
Medical Malpractice 2 years RSMo § 516.105
Legal Malpractice 5 years RSMo § 516.120
Fraud 10 years RSMo § 516.110
Defamation (Libel/Slander) 2 years RSMo § 516.120
Product Liability 2 years RSMo § 516.120
Debt Collection (Written Contract) 10 years RSMo § 516.110
Debt Collection (Oral Contract) 5 years RSMo § 516.120
Claims Against Government 2 years (notice required) RSMo § 537.345
Childhood Sexual Abuse Age 28, or within 3 years of discovery RSMo § 516.147
Workers' Compensation Claim 2 years from injury / last payment RSMo § 287.430

Important: This table provides general time limits for common civil claims in Missouri. Special rules may apply for claims involving minors, government entities, medical malpractice, and other specific situations. Always consult with a qualified Missouri attorney for advice on your particular case.

Personal Injury Claims in Missouri

Under RSMo § 516.120, Missouri's statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 5 years from the date the injury occurred. This is one of the longer personal injury deadlines among U.S. states. This applies to a wide range of cases, including:

  • Car accidents and motor vehicle collisions
  • Slip and fall / premises liability cases
  • Assault and battery
  • Dog bites and animal attacks
  • Workplace injuries (outside of workers' compensation)
  • Product liability injuries

Discovery Rule

Missouri courts apply the "discovery rule" in certain cases where the injury is not immediately apparent. Under this doctrine, the statute of limitations does not begin to run until the plaintiff discovered, or through reasonable diligence should have discovered, the injury and its cause. This is commonly applied in toxic exposure cases, occupational diseases, and cases involving latent injuries. However, the discovery rule is not applied uniformly across all claim types in Missouri.

Minors

If the injured person is under 21 at the time of the injury (Missouri's age of majority is 21 for certain legal purposes, though 18 for most tort claims), the statute of limitations may be tolled until they reach the age of majority. Under RSMo § 516.170, if a person is under the age of 21 or of unsound mind at the time the cause of action accrues, the action may be commenced within the applicable limitations period after the disability is removed. The practical effect depends on the specific claim type and circumstances.

Government claims exception: If your personal injury claim is against a government entity (state, county, city, or public agency), different and shorter deadlines apply. Missouri's sovereign immunity laws require timely notice of claims, and you should consult an attorney immediately if your claim involves a government defendant.

Contract Disputes in Missouri

Missouri law distinguishes between written and oral contracts, with significantly different statute of limitations periods for each. Missouri has one of the longest written contract deadlines in the country.

Written Contracts

Under RSMo § 516.110, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is 10 years from the date of the breach. This applies to employment agreements, lease agreements, business contracts, promissory notes, and other written agreements. The clock starts on the date the breach occurred. Missouri's 10-year period is notably longer than most states, which typically allow 4 to 6 years for written contract claims.

Oral Contracts

Under RSMo § 516.120, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is 5 years from the date of the breach. Oral contracts are enforceable in Missouri for most purposes, but the shorter deadline reflects the difficulty of proving the terms of an unwritten agreement after a long period of time.

UCC Sales of Goods

For contracts involving the sale of goods, Missouri's version of the Uniform Commercial Code (RSMo § 400.2-725) sets a 4-year statute of limitations. The parties may reduce this to not less than 1 year, but may not extend it beyond 4 years.

Note: The statute of limitations for contract claims generally begins on the date of the breach, not the date the breach was discovered. However, there are limited exceptions for fraud in the inducement and other special circumstances. Missouri courts have held that each installment payment on a contract may give rise to a separate claim with its own limitations period.

Medical Malpractice in Missouri

Missouri's medical malpractice statute of limitations is governed by RSMo § 516.105. The rules are more restrictive than most other personal injury claims:

  • 2 years from the date of the alleged act of medical negligence
  • Missouri generally does not apply the discovery rule to medical malpractice claims
  • A 10-year statute of repose bars all claims filed more than 10 years after the negligent act

This means that unlike ordinary personal injury claims (which have a 5-year window), medical malpractice claims must be filed within just 2 years of the date the negligent treatment or procedure occurred — regardless of when the injury was discovered.

Exceptions

There are limited exceptions to the 2-year rule:

  • Foreign object: If a foreign object (such as a surgical instrument or sponge) was left in the patient's body, the claim may be filed within 2 years of the date the plaintiff discovered or should have discovered the injury
  • Fraudulent concealment: If the healthcare provider fraudulently concealed the negligent act, the statute of limitations may be tolled until the plaintiff discovered or should have discovered the facts
  • Minors: Special rules apply for children; however, Missouri courts have upheld limitations periods even for minors in medical malpractice cases

Statute of Repose

Missouri imposes a 10-year statute of repose for medical malpractice claims. This means that regardless of when the injury was discovered, no medical malpractice action may be filed more than 10 years after the date of the alleged negligent act. This is an absolute bar to claims, with very limited exceptions.

Warning: Medical malpractice cases in Missouri have strict and complex deadlines. The 2-year statute of limitations and the 10-year statute of repose work together to create narrow filing windows. Do not delay in consulting with a Missouri medical malpractice attorney if you believe you have a claim.

Property Damage Claims in Missouri

Under RSMo § 516.120, the statute of limitations for property damage claims in Missouri is 5 years. This applies to:

  • Damage to real property (land, buildings, structures)
  • Damage to personal property (vehicles, equipment, belongings)
  • Trespass to real property
  • Conversion (theft or unauthorized use of personal property)
  • Vandalism and intentional property damage
  • Negligent damage to property

The clock generally starts on the date the damage occurred. For latent damage that is not immediately discoverable (such as construction defects or environmental contamination), the discovery rule may apply, delaying the start of the limitations period until the damage was discovered or should have been discovered.

Debt Collection in Missouri

The statute of limitations for debt collection in Missouri depends on the type of debt. Missouri has relatively long deadlines for written debts compared to most states:

Type of Debt Statute of Limitations Legal Basis
Written contract (loans, promissory notes) 10 years RSMo § 516.110
Oral contract 5 years RSMo § 516.120
Open-ended account (credit cards) 5–10 years (depends on documentation) RSMo § 516.110 / 516.120
Auto loan deficiency 10 years RSMo § 516.110
Court judgments 10 years (renewable) RSMo § 516.350
State tax liability 10 years RSMo § 143.241

When Does the Clock Start?

For most debts, the statute of limitations starts from the date of default or the date of last payment, whichever is later. In Missouri, making a partial payment or written acknowledgment of the debt may restart the statute of limitations clock.

Credit Card Debt

The statute of limitations for credit card debt in Missouri can be either 5 or 10 years, depending on the circumstances. If the creditor can produce a signed written agreement, the 10-year limit for written contracts applies. If no written agreement exists, courts have applied the 5-year limit for oral contracts. The classification of credit card debt has been the subject of litigation in Missouri courts.

Important: After the statute of limitations expires, debt collectors can still attempt to collect the debt, but they cannot successfully sue you. However, making a partial payment or acknowledging the debt in writing may restart the clock. Do not make any payment or written acknowledgment on an old debt without first consulting an attorney.

Wrongful Death Claims in Missouri

Under RSMo § 537.100, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Missouri is 3 years from the date of the decedent's death. This applies when a person's death is caused by the wrongful act, neglect, or default of another.

Who Can File

Missouri law establishes a priority system for who may file a wrongful death claim:

  • Class I: Surviving spouse, children, or the decedent's lineal descendants; or the natural or adoptive parents of the decedent
  • Class II: The decedent's siblings or their descendants
  • Class III: A plaintiff ad litem appointed by the court

If no one in Class I files within 90 days of the decedent's death, the right to file passes to the next class of beneficiaries.

Common Wrongful Death Scenarios

  • Fatal car or truck accidents
  • Medical malpractice resulting in death
  • Workplace fatalities
  • Defective products causing death
  • Intentional acts of violence
  • Nursing home neglect or abuse

If the wrongful death claim is against a government entity, shorter notice requirements may apply under Missouri's sovereign immunity laws.

Claims Against Government Entities in Missouri

Missouri's sovereign immunity laws impose special rules and shorter deadlines for claims against government entities. The process is governed by RSMo § 537.345 and related statutes.

Notice Requirements

Under Missouri law, you must file a written notice of claim with the relevant government entity within the time period specified by statute. The notice must include:

  • The name and address of the claimant
  • The date, time, and location of the incident
  • A description of the injury, damage, or loss
  • The circumstances under which the claim arose

Applicable Entities

The notice requirements apply to claims against:

  • The State of Missouri
  • Cities and municipalities
  • Counties
  • Public school districts and universities
  • Public hospitals and transit authorities
  • Any other state or local government entity

Statute of Limitations

The general statute of limitations for claims against government entities in Missouri is 2 years from the date the injury occurred. However, specific notice deadlines may be shorter depending on the entity and the type of claim. Some municipalities require notice within 30 to 90 days.

Critical: Missing the notice deadline for a government claim can permanently bar your claim. Unlike private lawsuits, there is very little room for late filings or exceptions. If you believe you have a claim against a government entity in Missouri, act immediately and consult with an attorney.

Criminal Statute of Limitations in Missouri

Missouri's criminal statute of limitations is governed by RSMo § 556.036 and related provisions. The deadlines vary based on the severity of the offense:

Crimes with No Statute of Limitations

Missouri law permits prosecution at any time for the following offenses:

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Sodomy
  • Any Class A felony
  • Sexual offenses involving a person 18 or younger

Statute of Limitations by Offense Level

Offense Type Statute of Limitations Legal Basis
Arson / knowingly burning or exploding 5 years RSMo § 556.036
Financial exploitation of seniors/disabled persons 5 years RSMo § 556.036
Other felonies (general) 3 years RSMo § 556.036
Misdemeanors 1 year RSMo § 556.036
Infractions (fine/forfeiture only) 6 months RSMo § 556.036

Special Rules for Fraud and Public Office Misconduct

  • Fraud / Breach of fiduciary obligation: 1 year after discovery, but no more than 3 years beyond the standard limit
  • Misconduct in public office: Any time while suspect is in office/employed, or 2 years after, but no more than 3 years total extension
  • Fraudulent child support claims: 1 year after discovery, but no more than 3 years

When Does Criminal Prosecution Officially Begin?

Under Missouri law, a criminal prosecution is considered officially commenced when the state files one of the following:

  • Indictment — A formal charge issued by a grand jury
  • Information — A formal charge filed by the prosecutor
  • Complaint — A sworn statement alleging criminal conduct

Challenging Expired Criminal Charges

If you believe the statute of limitations has expired on criminal charges filed against you, your defense attorney can file a motion to dismiss. The court will examine the date the alleged offense occurred, the date the charging document was filed, and whether any tolling provisions applied.

Note: Missouri has eliminated the statute of limitations for murder, rape, sodomy, and all Class A felonies. Sexual offenses involving victims under 18 also have no time limit. For fraud-based offenses, the clock starts from discovery rather than commission.

Note: Missouri has eliminated the statute of limitations for many serious sex offenses, particularly those involving minors. Under SB 590 (2018), certain sex crimes against victims under 18 have no time limit or an extended deadline that runs until the victim reaches age 30. Prosecutors can file charges for these offenses at any time within the applicable period.

Tolling and Exceptions in Missouri

Under certain circumstances, Missouri law allows the statute of limitations to be "tolled" (paused or extended). Common tolling doctrines include:

Minority (Under Age of Majority)

If the plaintiff is under the age of 21 at the time the cause of action accrues, the statute of limitations is tolled under RSMo § 516.170. The clock starts once the disability of minority is removed. However, for medical malpractice claims, Missouri courts have applied limitations periods more strictly, and the tolling may not apply in all cases involving minors.

Mental Incapacity

If the plaintiff lacks the legal capacity to manage their own affairs at the time the cause of action accrues, the statute of limitations may be tolled under RSMo § 516.170. The tolling continues while the incapacity exists.

Defendant's Absence from the State

Under RSMo § 516.200, if the defendant is absent from the state at the time the cause of action accrues, the statute of limitations does not begin to run until the defendant returns. If the defendant leaves after the cause of action accrues, the time of absence is not counted toward the limitations period.

Discovery Rule

Missouri courts recognize the discovery rule in many types of cases. Under this doctrine, the statute of limitations does not begin until the plaintiff discovered, or through reasonable diligence should have discovered, the facts giving rise to the claim. This is particularly relevant in:

  • Toxic exposure and environmental contamination
  • Fraud and misrepresentation
  • Professional malpractice (legal, accounting)
  • Occupational diseases
  • Latent construction defects

Note: The discovery rule is generally not applied to medical malpractice claims in Missouri, as discussed above.

Fraudulent Concealment

If the defendant fraudulently concealed the facts giving rise to the claim, the statute of limitations is tolled until the plaintiff discovered or should have discovered the claim. This doctrine applies across multiple claim types in Missouri.

Warning: Tolling doctrines are complex and fact-specific. Do not assume the statute of limitations has been extended in your case without consulting a Missouri attorney. Courts apply these doctrines narrowly, and the burden of proving tolling is on the plaintiff.

Missouri Statute of Limitations: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the statute of limitations for personal injury in Missouri?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 5 years from the date the injury occurred under RSMo Section 516.120. This applies to car accidents, slip and fall cases, assault, dog bites, and other injury claims. Missouri has one of the longer personal injury deadlines among U.S. states. If the injury was not immediately discovered, the discovery rule may delay the start of the clock in certain circumstances. However, if your claim is against a government entity, shorter notice requirements apply.
What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Missouri?
Under RSMo Section 516.105, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Missouri is 2 years from the date of the alleged negligent act. Unlike ordinary personal injury claims, Missouri generally does not apply the discovery rule to medical malpractice, meaning the clock starts on the date of the treatment, not when the injury was discovered. There is also a 10-year statute of repose that bars all claims more than 10 years after the negligent act. Limited exceptions exist for foreign objects left in the body and fraudulent concealment.
What is the statute of limitations for breach of contract in Missouri?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is 10 years under RSMo Section 516.110. For breach of an oral contract, the limit is 5 years under RSMo Section 516.120. Missouri has one of the longest written contract limitations periods in the United States. The clock generally starts on the date the breach occurred. For contracts involving the sale of goods, the UCC provides a 4-year limit.
What is the statute of limitations for debt collection in Missouri?
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for debt collection depends on the type of debt. Written contracts and promissory notes have a 10-year limit under RSMo Section 516.110. Oral contracts have a 5-year limit under RSMo Section 516.120. Credit card debt may be classified as either written or oral, resulting in a 5- or 10-year limit depending on the documentation available. The clock typically starts from the date of default or last payment. Making a partial payment or acknowledging the debt in writing may restart the clock.
What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death in Missouri?
Under RSMo Section 537.100, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Missouri is 3 years from the date of the decedent's death. Claims may be filed by the surviving spouse, children, or other heirs according to a priority system established by statute. If no Class I beneficiary files within 90 days, the right passes to the next class. If the claim is against a government entity, shorter notice requirements may apply.
Can the statute of limitations be extended in Missouri?
Yes, under certain circumstances. The statute of limitations can be tolled (paused) if the plaintiff is a minor, lacks mental capacity, if the defendant has left the state, or if the discovery rule applies. Missouri also recognizes fraudulent concealment as a basis for tolling. However, these doctrines are applied narrowly by courts, and the burden of proving tolling is on the plaintiff. Always consult with a Missouri attorney to determine if tolling applies to your case.
What is the statute of limitations for childhood sexual abuse in Missouri?
Under RSMo Section 516.147, victims of childhood sexual abuse may file a lawsuit until age 28, or within 3 years of discovering that the injury was caused by the abuse, whichever is later. Missouri has strengthened its laws in recent years to provide more time for survivors to come forward. The law applies to both the individual perpetrator and institutions that may have enabled or covered up the abuse.
Does Missouri have a statute of repose?
Yes, Missouri has a statute of repose for medical malpractice claims. Under RSMo Section 516.105, no medical malpractice action may be filed more than 10 years after the date of the alleged negligent act, regardless of when the injury was discovered. This is an absolute deadline with very limited exceptions. Missouri also has product liability statutes of repose that bar claims filed more than 10 years after the date the product was first sold.
What is the criminal statute of limitations in Missouri?
Missouri has no statute of limitations for murder, rape, sodomy, and all Class A felonies. Sexual offenses involving victims under 18 also have no time limit. Arson has a 5-year limit, financial exploitation of seniors/disabled has a 5-year limit, other felonies have a 3-year limit, misdemeanors have a 1-year limit, and infractions have a 6-month limit. Fraud-based offenses run from discovery.
What happens if I miss the statute of limitations deadline in Missouri?
If you miss the deadline, the defendant can file a motion to dismiss, and the court will almost certainly dismiss your case permanently. Missouri courts strictly enforce these deadlines. Very few exceptions exist, so it is critical to file before the statute of limitations expires.

Statute of Limitations in Other States

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Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Statute of limitations laws are subject to change and may be affected by recent legislation, court decisions, or the specific facts of your case. Special rules may apply for claims against government entities, medical malpractice, cases involving minors, and other specific situations. Always consult with a qualified Missouri attorney for advice on your particular situation. CourtDateCalculator.online is not a law firm and is not engaged in the practice of law.