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

In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 6 years under Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-109.

6 YEARS
Written Contract · Tennessee
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of a written contract Deadlines in Tennessee

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

In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 6 years under Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-109.

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

Six years from accrual on a contract claim.

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

Sale-of-goods and breach-of-warranty claims run four years under T.C.A. § 47-2-725, which is shorter. Actions for the use and occupation of land also run six years under this section.

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

Often, yes. Suit within 12 months under the GTLA under Tenn. Code Ann. § 29-20-305. The Governmental Tort Liability Act requires suit within twelve months after the cause of action arises. Because the ordinary personal-injury period in Tennessee is already only one year, the GTLA deadline does not shorten it the way it does in most states — b…

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

Tennessee'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 Tennessee:

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 Tennessee

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