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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Fraud in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for fraud is generally 4 years under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.004(a)(4).

4 YEARS
Fraud · Texas
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Fraud Deadlines in Texas

How long do you have to file a fraud claim in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for fraud is generally 4 years under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.004(a)(4).

When does the clock start for fraud in Texas?

Four years after the day the cause of action accrues. Section 16.004(a) lists fraud alongside debt and breach of fiduciary duty.

Can the Texas deadline for fraud be extended?

The discovery rule and fraudulent concealment can delay accrual. Fraud tied to a contract may also implicate the contract deadline.

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

Often, yes. Written notice to the governmental unit within 6 months under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 101.101. The Texas Tort Claims Act requires notice to the governmental unit within six months of the incident. A city charter or ordinance may impose a substantially shorter deadline — some as short as 45 to 90 days — and that shorter period controls. The general two-y…

How does Texas compare to other states for fraud?

Texas's 4 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 46 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for fraud ranges from 2 years to 10 years, and 3 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Fraud Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the fraud deadline in Texas:

01 Investment or securities fraud
02 Real estate misrepresentation
03 Contract fraud and false inducement
04 Concealment of material defects in a sale
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Other Filing Deadlines in Texas

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