LifeClaimTimeline

Filing deadlines by state

How long you generally have to file a lawsuit in each US state and DC. Deadlines can start later, pause or be shortened depending on the facts, so open your state for details and the official law.

General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Missing a deadline can end a claim. If a deadline may be close, speak with a lawyer licensed in your state now.

StateWrongful death
Alabama2 years from death
Alaska2 years from death
Arizona2 years
Arkansas3 years
California2 years
Colorado2 years
Connecticut2 years
Delaware2 years
District of Columbia2 years
Florida2 years
Georgia2 years
Hawaii2 years
Idaho2 years
Illinois2 years
Indiana2 years
Iowa2 years
Kansas2 years
Kentucky1 year
Louisiana1 year from death or 2 years from the injury, whichever is longer
Maine3 years
Maryland3 years from death
Massachusetts3 years from death or discovery
Michigan3 years (saving period under § 600.5852)
Minnesota3 years from death; max 6 years from act
Mississippi3 years (or applicable underlying tort SOL) Under review
Missouri3 years
Montana3 years
Nebraska2 years from death
Nevada2 years from death
New HampshireGenerally 3 years Under review
New Jersey2 years from death
New Mexico3 years from death
New York2 years from death
North Carolina2 years from death
North Dakota2 years from death
Ohio2 years from death
Oklahoma2 years from death
Oregon3 years from injury discovery
Pennsylvania2 years from death
Rhode Island3 years from death
South Carolina3 years
South Dakota3 years
Tennessee1 year
Texas2 years
Utah2 years
Vermont2 years
Virginia2 years
Washington3 years
West Virginia2 years
Wisconsin3 years
Wyoming2 years

How we check these deadlines

Each period was compared across three independent 50-state surveys of state law. Where they disagreed, we checked the state's official code and corrected the figure. Every entry links to the official statute so you can read it yourself. Last checked: November 12, 2026.

Cross-checked sources agree   Checked on official code confirmed directly on the state's code site   Under review the rule depends on the type of claim or is being re-checked; read the linked statute.