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

In Rhode Island, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 10 years under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-13(a).

10 YEARS
Written Contract · Rhode Island
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of a written contract Deadlines in Rhode Island

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

In Rhode Island, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 10 years under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-13(a).

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

Ten years under the general civil limitation — among the longest contract windows in the country.

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

Contracts under seal are reported at twenty years. Confirm § 9-1-13 directly and repoint the URL.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in Rhode Island?

Often, yes. Written notice within 90 days under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-25. Section 9-1-25 requires written notice of a claim against a city or town within ninety days after the incident. That is a fraction of the three-year injury period and is easy to miss entirely. The State and its subdivisions also have damages caps. Not confirme…

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

Rhode Island's 10 years is among the longest 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 Rhode Island:

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 Rhode Island

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