What Is the Statute of Limitations for Breach Of An Oral Contract in Texas?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 4 years under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.051.
Breach of an oral contract Deadlines in Texas
How long do you have to file a breach of an oral contract claim in Texas?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for breach of an oral contract is generally 4 years under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.051.
When does the clock start for breach of an oral contract in Texas?
Four years under the residual period — Texas does not shorten the window for unwritten agreements the way many states do.
Can the Texas deadline for breach of an oral contract be extended?
The statute of frauds may bar certain oral agreements outright regardless of timing. Proving the terms and the date of breach is the practical hurdle.
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 breach of an oral contract?
Texas's 4 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 Texas:
