What Is the Statute of Limitations for Fraud in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, the statute of limitations for fraud is generally 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301(8).

3 YEARS
Fraud · District of Columbia
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Fraud Deadlines in District of Columbia

How long do you have to file a fraud claim in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, the statute of limitations for fraud is generally 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301(8).

When does the clock start for fraud in District of Columbia?

Three years, subject to the discovery rule.

Can the District of Columbia deadline for fraud be extended?

The three-part discovery test applies — knowledge of the injury, its cause, and some evidence of wrongdoing. That last element matters in fraud cases, where the wrongdoing is the thing concealed.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in District of Columbia?

Often, yes. Written notice to the Mayor within 6 months under D.C. Code § 12-309. Section 12-309 requires written notice to the Mayor of the District of Columbia within six months of the injury or damage before any action for unliquidated damages may be maintained against the District. A police report may satisfy the requirement in some cir…

How does District of Columbia compare to other states for fraud?

District of Columbia's 3 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 46 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for fraud ranges from 2 years to 10 years, and 3 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Fraud Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the fraud deadline in District of Columbia:

01 Investment or securities fraud
02 Real estate misrepresentation
03 Contract fraud and false inducement
04 Concealment of material defects in a sale
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Other Filing Deadlines in District of Columbia

Statutes of limitations have exceptions, and courts apply them to specific facts. This page states the general rule. A licensed District of Columbia attorney can tell you the deadline that applies to your situation.
See every filing deadline in District of Columbia, or compare fraud across all states.
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