FirmTimerFirmTimerCalculate accurate filing deadlines for various causes of action in Washington. 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
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June 16, 2028
Washington sets a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury actions (injury to the person). The three-year period begins on the date of injury. Tolling applies while a potential plaintiff is under 18 or incompetent (the clock starts when the disability ends, per RCW 4.16.190).
Last reviewed 6/10/2025
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 | 3 years | No | — | Wash. Rev. Code § 4.16.080(2) |
| Wrongful Death | 3 years | No | — | Wash. Rev. Code § 4.16.080(2); RCW 4.20.010 et seq. |
| Property Damage | 3 years | No | — | Wash. Rev. Code § 4.16.080(1) |
| Written Contract | 6 years | No | — | Wash. Rev. Code § 4.16.040(1) |
| Oral Contract | 3 years | No | — | Wash. Rev. Code § 4.16.080(3) |
| Defamation | 2 years | No | — | Wash. Rev. Code § 4.16.100(1) |
| Medical Malpractice | 3 years | Yes | 8 years | Wash. Rev. Code § 4.16.350(3) |
| Consumer Debt | 6 years | No | — | Wash. Rev. Code § 4.16.040(1) |
Common questions about Washington statutes of limitations
The shortest deadline in Washington is 2 years for defamation (libel/slander) claims, while the longest is 6 years for consumer debt disputes. Missing these cut-offs—even by a day—can permanently bar recovery.
Note: Washington 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 Washington, 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 Washington law, visit the official Washington courts or legislature website.