# Tennessee statute of limitations on debt

> In Tennessee, the statute of limitations on a written contract is 6 years under Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-109(a)(3). Periods for oral contracts, open accounts and promissory notes.

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

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In Tennessee, the statute of limitations on a written contract is 6 years under Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-109(a)(3).

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

**Authority.** [Tenn. Code Ann. § 28-3-109(a)(3)](https://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/tncode/)

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

## When does the clock start?

Tennessee's statute does not define accrual for contract claims; Tennessee courts hold a breach-of-contract cause of action accrues as of the date of the breach, or on anticipatory breach when a party's conduct shows an intention no longer to be bound. Not verified against the code.

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.