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

In Washington, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 6 years under RCW 4.16.040(1).

6 YEARS
Written Contract · Washington
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of a written contract Deadlines in Washington

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

In Washington, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 6 years under RCW 4.16.040(1).

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

Six years from breach on a written contract.

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

Subsection (2) brings accounts receivable into the same six-year period regardless of form. Sale-of-goods claims run four years under RCW 62A.2-725.

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

Often, yes. Tort claim form plus a 60-day waiting period under RCW 4.96.020, 4.92.100. Washington does not use a short notice deadline of the New York or New Jersey kind. Instead a standard tort claim form must be filed with the local government entity under RCW 4.96.020 (or with the Office of Risk Management for state claims under RCW 4.92.100)…

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

Washington'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 Washington:

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 Washington

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