FirmTimerFirmTimerCalculate accurate filing deadlines for various causes of action in Missouri. This tool provides statute citations, legal notes, and important deadline information for your case.
Statute may be tolled until age of majority
Statute may be tolled due to disability
Found missing, incorrect, or outdated information? Please let us know so we can improve our database for everyone.
Firm Timer helps you track every minute of your workday, ensuring you never miss a billable hour again. Our intuitive time tracking software is designed for law firms, making it easy to capture time on the go.
June 16, 2030
Missouri’s default for personal injury is 5 years (for “injury to the person or rights of another, not arising on contract”). (Intentional torts like libel, slander, assault, etc., have a 2-year statute under § 516.140.) Minority or insanity tolling applies but is capped at age 21 for minors (since age of majority is 18, plus 3-year maximum toll).
Last reviewed 6/9/2025
Firm Timer helps you track every minute of your workday, ensuring you never miss a billable hour again. Our intuitive time tracking software is designed for law firms, making it easy to capture time on the go.
| Cause of Action | Statute of Limitations | Discovery Rule | Statute of Repose | Legal Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Injury | 5 years | No | — | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120(4) |
| Wrongful Death | 3 years | No | — | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 537.100 |
| Property Damage | 5 years | No | — | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120(4) |
| Written Contract | 10 years | No | — | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.110(1) |
| Oral Contract | 5 years | No | — | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120(1) |
| Defamation | 2 years | No | — | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.140 |
| Medical Malpractice | 2 years | No | 10 years | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.105(1) |
| Consumer Debt | 5 years | No | — | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120(1) |
Common questions about Missouri statutes of limitations
The shortest deadline in Missouri is 2 years for defamation (libel/slander) claims, while the longest is 10 years for written contract disputes. Missing these cut-offs—even by a day—can permanently bar recovery.
Note: Missouri also enforces statutes of repose, which create an absolute bar after a set number of years, regardless of when the injury is discovered. Our calculator flags these where applicable.
A statute of limitations sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. In Missouri, these time limits vary by the type of claim or offense.
Missing a filing deadline can permanently bar your claim, regardless of its merit. This calculator helps you determine the deadline for your specific case, but always consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice.
For more information about Missouri law, visit the official Missouri courts or legislature website.