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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Fraud in Virginia?

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for fraud is generally 2 years under Va. Code §§ 8.01-243(A), 8.01-249.

2 YEARS
Fraud · Virginia
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Fraud Deadlines in Virginia

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

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for fraud is generally 2 years under Va. Code §§ 8.01-243(A), 8.01-249.

When does the clock start for fraud in Virginia?

Two years, with the cause of action deemed to accrue when the fraud is discovered or by the exercise of due diligence reasonably should have been discovered.

Can the Virginia deadline for fraud be extended?

Two years is short for a fraud claim by national standards — several states allow three to six. Fraud tied to a contract may also implicate the contract deadline.

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

Often, yes. Written notice within 1 year (6 months for localities) under Va. Code §§ 8.01-195.6, 15.2-209. Under the Virginia Tort Claims Act, written notice of a claim against the Commonwealth must be filed within one year of accrual (§ 8.01-195.6). Claims against a city, town, or county require notice within six months under § 15.2-209. The two regimes are separa…

How does Virginia compare to other states for fraud?

Virginia's 2 years is among the shortest in the country. 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 Virginia:

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 Virginia

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