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

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 6 years under N.J.S.A. § 2A:14-1.

6 YEARS
Breach of Oral Contract · New Jersey
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of an oral contract Deadlines in New Jersey

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

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 6 years under N.J.S.A. § 2A:14-1.

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

Six years — the same as a written contract, since § 2A:14-1 does not distinguish between them.

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

The statute of frauds may bar certain oral agreements outright regardless of timing. Section 2A:14-24 requires a signed writing to revive a time-barred simple contract debt.

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

Often, yes. Notice of tort claim within 90 days under N.J.S.A. § 59:8-8. The New Jersey Tort Claims Act requires a notice of claim to be filed with the public entity within 90 days of accrual. The notice does not replace the two-year limitations period — both must be met, and the suit generally cannot be filed until the entity has…

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

New Jersey's 6 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 New Jersey:

01 Verbal service or handshake agreements
02 Informal lending or repayment promises
03 Unwritten partnership or business arrangements
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Other Filing Deadlines in New Jersey

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