Home› State Guides› Missouri› Breach of Oral Contract

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Breach Of An Oral Contract in Missouri?

In Missouri, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 5 years under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120(1).

5 YEARS
Breach of Oral Contract · Missouri
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of an oral contract Deadlines in Missouri

How long do you have to file a breach of an oral contract claim in Missouri?

In Missouri, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 5 years under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120(1).

When does the clock start for breach of an oral contract in Missouri?

Five years on a contract claim generally.

Can the Missouri deadline for breach of an oral contract be extended?

The line between § 516.120 and the ten-year § 516.110 is drawn by whether the claim is on a writing for the payment of money — not by whether the agreement was written. A written lease covenant has been held to fall under the five-year section.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in Missouri?

Often, yes. Notice to a city within 90 days under Mo. Rev. Stat. §§ 82.210, 537.600. Missouri requires written notice to the mayor of a city of a certain class within 90 days of an injury caused by a defective street or sidewalk under RSMo § 82.210. Sovereign immunity under § 537.600 is waived only in defined categories — chiefly motor vehicle…

How does Missouri compare to other states for breach of an oral contract?

Missouri's 5 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 44 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for breach of an oral contract ranges from 2 years to 10 years, and 3 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Breach of Oral Contract Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the breach of an oral contract deadline in Missouri:

01 Verbal service or handshake agreements
02 Informal lending or repayment promises
03 Unwritten partnership or business arrangements
Advertisement
Legal Forms

Other Filing Deadlines in Missouri

Statutes of limitations have exceptions, and courts apply them to specific facts. This page states the general rule. A licensed Missouri attorney can tell you the deadline that applies to your situation.
See every filing deadline in Missouri, or compare breach of an oral contract across all states.
Case Evaluation

Get Help in Missouri

Fill out the form below and a legal resource in Missouri may be able to assist with your situation.

* Required. Phone, text and email consent are optional.