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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Breach Of A Written Contract in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301(7).

3 YEARS
Written Contract · District of Columbia
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of a written contract Deadlines in District of Columbia

How long do you have to file a breach of a written contract claim in District of Columbia?

In District of Columbia, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 3 years under D.C. Code § 12-301(7).

When does the clock start for breach of a written contract in District of Columbia?

Three years from breach — short by national standards.

Can the District of Columbia deadline for breach of a written contract be extended?

An instrument under SEAL, or any other bond, single bill or covenant, runs twelve years under § 12-301(6). Breach of a contract for sale runs under the UCC provision in tit. 28.

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 breach of a written contract?

District of Columbia's 3 years is among the shortest in the country. Across the 49 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for breach of a written contract ranges from 3 years to 10 years, and 6 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Written Contract Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the breach of a written contract deadline in District of Columbia:

01 Breach of a signed business agreement
02 Non-payment under a service contract
03 Broken lease or purchase agreements
04 Failure to deliver goods as contracted
05 Breach of a settlement agreement
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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 breach of a written contract across all states.
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