# Arizona statute of limitations on debt

> In Arizona, the statute of limitations on a written contract is 6 years under A.R.S. §§ 12-543, 12-548. Periods for oral contracts, open accounts and promissory notes.

- Source: https://ottoforfirms.com/statute-of-limitations/arizona/
- Publisher: Otto — https://ottoforfirms.com
- Updated: 2026-07-26

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In Arizona, the statute of limitations on a written contract is 6 years under A.R.S. §§ 12-543, 12-548.

**Rule.** A written contract claim in Arizona must be brought within 6 years.

**Authority.** [A.R.S. §§ 12-543, 12-548](https://www.azleg.gov/ars/12/00548.htm)

| Contract type | Limitations period |
| --- | --- |
| Written contract | 6 yr |
| Oral contract | 3 yr |
| Open account | 3 yr |
| Promissory note | 6 yr |

## When does the clock start?

Six years after the cause of action accrues; for a card account with an optional acceleration clause, Arizona treats the entire balance as accruing on default rather than installment by installment.

## What pauses it?

§ 12-501 excludes the debtor's time out of state; § 12-502 excludes minority (under 18) or unsound mind, with the full period running again after the disability is removed.

Last reviewed 2026-07-26

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This is an informational reference, not legal advice, and using it creates no attorney-client relationship. Limitations periods turn on facts this page cannot know — which state's law governs, the contract type, when the claim accrued, and whether anything tolled or revived it. Confirm against the primary source and your own counsel before acting.