Indiana Statute of Limitations (2026)
Civil filing deadlines in Indiana under Ind. Code art. 34-11 — two years for injury to person or character, six for contracts and claims involving real property.
✓ Last verified: Sep 2026
Common Questions About Indiana Deadlines
What is the statute of limitations in Indiana?
It depends on the type of claim. Indiana filing deadlines range from 2 years to 6 years — for example, personal injury 2 years, breach of a written contract 6 years, medical malpractice 2 years, defamation 2 years.
How long do you have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Indiana?
2 years under Ind. Code § 34-11-2-4(a)(1). Two years after the cause of action accrues, for injury to person or character. Full personal injury rules →
What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death in Indiana?
2 years under Ind. Code § 34-23-1-1. Two years from the date of death. Full wrongful death rules →
What is the statute of limitations for medical malpractice in Indiana?
2 years under Ind. Code § 34-18-7-1(b). Two years from the date of the alleged malpractice — an occurrence rule rather than a discovery rule. Full medical malpractice rules →
What is the statute of limitations for breach of contract in Indiana?
6 years under Ind. Code § 34-11-2-11. Six years from accrual on a written contract. Full breach of a written contract rules →
How long do you have to sue for defamation in Indiana?
2 years under Ind. Code § 34-11-2-4(a)(1). Two years — Indiana groups defamation with personal injury under the "injury to character" limb rather than giving it a shorter dedicated period. Full defamation rules →
What is the statute of limitations for property damage in Indiana?
2 years under Ind. Code § 34-11-2-4(a)(2). Two years for injury to personal property. Full property damage rules →
Do you have to notify the government before suing in Indiana?
Often, yes. Tort claim notice — 180 days local, 270 days state under Ind. Code §§ 34-13-3-8, 34-13-3-6. This is usually much shorter than the ordinary deadline.