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

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

6 YEARS
Written Contract · New Jersey
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Breach of a written contract Deadlines in New Jersey

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

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

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

Six years from the date of breach.

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

An instrument under seal runs sixteen years under § 2A:14-4. Sale-of-goods claims run four years under N.J.S.A. § 12A:2-725. Under § 2A:14-24, an oral acknowledgment of a debt does not restart the clock — only a signed writing does.

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 a written contract?

New Jersey's 6 years is in the middle of the range nationally. 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 Jersey:

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 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 a written contract across all states.
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