Home› State Guides› New Hampshire› Written Contract

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Breach Of A Written Contract in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 3 years under N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4, I.

3 YEARS
Written Contract · New Hampshire
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of a written contract Deadlines in New Hampshire

How long do you have to file a breach of a written contract claim in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 3 years under N.H. Rev. Stat. § 508:4, I.

When does the clock start for breach of a written contract in New Hampshire?

Three years — short by national standards, where six years is common.

Can the New Hampshire deadline for breach of a written contract be extended?

Witnessed notes and certain instruments are reported to run twenty years under separate provisions in ch. 508. Confirm whether a longer section applies to the specific instrument.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in New Hampshire?

Often, yes. Notice within 180 days for municipal claims under N.H. Rev. Stat. §§ 507-B:7, 541-B:14. RSA ch. 507-B governs claims against governmental units and requires notice within 180 days of the cause of action, along with damages caps. Claims against the State run through the Board of Claims under RSA ch. 541-B. Both sit on top of the three-year § 508:4…

How does New Hampshire compare to other states for breach of a written contract?

New Hampshire'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 New Hampshire:

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
Advertisement
Legal Forms

Other Filing Deadlines in New Hampshire

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

Get Help in New Hampshire

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

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