Home› State Guides› West Virginia› Written Contract

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

In West Virginia, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 10 years under W. Va. Code § 55-2-6.

10 YEARS
Written Contract · West Virginia
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Breach of a written contract Deadlines in West Virginia

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

In West Virginia, the statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is generally 10 years under W. Va. Code § 55-2-6.

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

Ten years on a signed written contract — among the longest in the country, and five times what West Virginia gives personal injury.

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

Contracts under seal and fiduciary or public officer bonds also run ten years. Harris (797 S.E.2d 68) holds the period starts when the breach occurs or when the act breaching the contract becomes known.

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

Often, yes. Generally 2 years; political subdivision limits apply under W. Va. Code §§ 29-12A-6, 55-2-12. The West Virginia Governmental Tort Claims and Insurance Reform Act, ch. 29-12A, governs claims against political subdivisions and sets a two-year period in § 29-12A-6, alongside immunity provisions and damages caps. West Virginia does not impose a short unive…

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

West Virginia's 10 years is among the longest in the country. 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 West Virginia:

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
Advertisement
Legal Forms

Other Filing Deadlines in West Virginia

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

Get Help in West Virginia

Fill out the form below and a legal resource in West Virginia may be able to assist with your situation.

* Required. Phone, text and email consent are optional.