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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Breach Of An Oral Contract in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 3 years under S.C. Code § 15-3-530(1).

3 YEARS
Breach of Oral Contract · South Carolina
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of an oral contract Deadlines in South Carolina

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

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 3 years under S.C. Code § 15-3-530(1).

When does the clock start for breach of an oral contract in South Carolina?

Three years — the same as a written contract.

Can the South Carolina deadline for breach of an oral contract be extended?

The statute of frauds may bar certain oral agreements outright regardless of timing.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in South Carolina?

Often, yes. Verified claim within 1 year; suit within 2 years under S.C. Code §§ 15-78-80, 15-78-110. Under the South Carolina Tort Claims Act, a claimant who files a verified claim within one year gets two years from the date of loss to bring suit; a claimant who does not file a verified claim gets only two years, and the Act's own limitations provision in §…

How does South Carolina compare to other states for breach of an oral contract?

South Carolina's 3 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 South Carolina:

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 South Carolina

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