Statute of limitations for breach of oral contract in California

Oral contracts in California carry a two-year limitations period — half of the written-contract window.

SoL period

2 years

From the date the cause of action accrues

Compute your deadline

Filing deadline

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Where this rule comes from

Statute

Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 339

"Within two years: An action upon a contract, obligation or liability not founded upon an instrument of writing."

Read the full statute Last verified May 7, 2026 by Juryvine Editorial

Frequently asked

What is the statute of limitations for breach of oral contract in California?: 2 years from the date the cause of action accrues. Authority: Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 339.

Breach of Oral Contract statute by state

Florida 4 years Illinois 5 years New York 6 years Pennsylvania 4 years Texas 4 years

Other California statutes of limitations

Personal Injury 2 years Medical Malpractice 1 year Wrongful Death 2 years Breach of Written Contract 4 years Fraud 3 years Wrongful Termination 2 years Civil Rights — 42 U.S.C. § 1983 2 years Premises Liability 2 years

Not legal advice. Statutes of limitations are governed by complex doctrine with many exceptions. Use this page as a starting point and verify with an attorney before relying on any deadline. Juryvine is not a law firm and does not represent clients.