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

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 4 years under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5525.

4 YEARS
Written Contract · Pennsylvania
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of a written contract Deadlines in Pennsylvania

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

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 4 years under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5525.

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

Four years from the date of breach.

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

An instrument under seal runs twenty years under § 5529(b). Sale-of-goods claims run under 13 Pa.C.S. § 2725. A payment or written acknowledgment can restart the clock.

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

Often, yes. Written notice within 6 months under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5522. Section 5522 requires written notice of intent to sue a government unit within six months of the date the injury was sustained. The notice must state the name and address of the claimant, the date, hour, and place of the injury, and the name and address of any…

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

Pennsylvania's 4 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 Pennsylvania:

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 Pennsylvania

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