Washington
Washington Statute of Limitations: Filing Deadlines by Case Type
Independently fact-checked against primary sources (last audited August 18, 2026). · Reviewed by the RecordingLaw editorial team. · Law checked current as of August 18, 2026. · 13 primary sources cited on this page. How we verify our legal content
Washington sets civil filing deadlines of 3 years for personal injury claims and oral contracts under RCW 4.16.080, and 6 years for written contracts under RCW 4.16.040. Murder and certain sex crimes against children carry no time limit under RCW 9A.04.080.
Hurt in Washington? If you are still within the deadline above, you can estimate what your injury claim may be worth with our free Washington personal injury settlement calculator. It gives an instant range based on your medical costs and Washington's fault rule (general information, not legal advice).
Overview of Washington Statutes of Limitations
A statute of limitations is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit or bringing criminal charges. In Washington State, these deadlines are found primarily in RCW Chapter 4.16 (civil actions) and RCW 9A.04.080 (criminal prosecutions). Missing the filing deadline can permanently bar your claim, so understanding these time limits is essential.
Washington law starts the clock on a civil claim when the "cause of action accrues," which typically means the date the injury or breach occurred. For some claims, such as fraud, the clock starts when the injured party discovers (or reasonably should have discovered) the wrongful conduct. Criminal statutes of limitations generally begin on the date the offense was committed.
The sections below cover every major civil and criminal category, the specific RCW statute that applies, and recent changes to Washington law.
Washington Civil Statute of Limitations
Washington civil deadlines range from 1 year to 10 years depending on the type of claim. Failing to file before the deadline allows the defendant to raise the statute of limitations as a defense, and the court will dismiss the case.
Civil Filing Deadlines by Case Type
| Case Type | Time Limit | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Judgments | 10 years | RCW 4.16.020 |
| Child support arrears | Until youngest child turns 18 | RCW 4.16.020 |
| Written contracts | 6 years | RCW 4.16.040(1) |
| Account receivable | 6 years | RCW 4.16.040(2) |
| Collection of rents | 6 years | RCW 4.16.040(3) |
| Real property improvements (construction defects) | 6 years after completion | RCW 4.16.310 |
| Trespass on real property | 3 years | RCW 4.16.080(1) |
| Injury to personal property | 3 years | RCW 4.16.080(2) |
| Oral contracts | 3 years | RCW 4.16.080(3) |
| Fraud | 3 years from discovery | RCW 4.16.080(4) |
| Personal injury | 3 years | RCW 4.16.080(2) |
| Wrongful death | 3 years | RCW 4.16.080(2) |
| Libel and slander | 2 years | RCW 4.16.100(1) |
| Assault and battery | 2 years | RCW 4.16.100(1) |
| Medical malpractice | 3 years from act or 1 year from discovery (8-year max) | RCW 4.16.350 |
| Childhood sexual abuse (acts on or after June 6, 2024) | No time limit | RCW 4.16.340 |
| Childhood sexual abuse (acts before June 6, 2024) | 3 years from discovery | RCW 4.16.340 |
| Catch-all (actions not otherwise provided for) | 2 years | RCW 4.16.130 |
Written and Oral Contracts
Washington draws a clear line between written and oral agreements. Under RCW 4.16.040, any action on a written contract or liability arising from a written agreement must be filed within 6 years. This includes formal loan agreements, leases, and business contracts.
Oral contracts and implied agreements fall under RCW 4.16.080(3), which allows only 3 years from the date of the breach. Because oral agreements are harder to prove and have a shorter deadline, putting agreements in writing is strongly recommended.
Personal Injury and Wrongful Death
Washington gives injured parties 3 years to file a personal injury lawsuit under RCW 4.16.080(2). This applies to car accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, product liability claims, and other cases where someone suffers bodily harm due to another person's negligence.
Wrongful death claims also carry a 3-year deadline, borrowed from the general catch-all period in RCW 4.16.080(2). The right of action itself is created by RCW 4.20.010, which does not itself set a filing deadline; the personal representative of the deceased may bring the action on behalf of surviving spouses, domestic partners, children, stepchildren, parents, or siblings.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice claims follow special rules under RCW 4.16.350. The general deadline is 3 years from the date of the alleged malpractice, but Washington also allows 1 year from the date the patient discovered (or reasonably should have discovered) the injury. An absolute 8-year statute of repose applies, meaning no claim can be brought more than 8 years after the act, regardless of when the injury was discovered.
The legislature added the 8-year cap to protect healthcare providers from stale claims based on unreliable evidence. Additionally, a written good-faith request for mediation of a healthcare claim will toll (pause) the statute of limitations for up to 1 year under RCW 7.70.110.
Fraud
Fraud claims in Washington have a 3-year statute of limitations, but the clock does not start on the date of the fraudulent act. Under RCW 4.16.080(4), the cause of action accrues when the injured party discovers the facts constituting the fraud. This "discovery rule" recognizes that fraud is, by its nature, hidden from the victim.
Property Damage and Trespass
Damage to personal property and trespass on real property each carry a 3-year filing deadline under RCW 4.16.080. For claims arising from the construction, design, or engineering of improvements on real property, RCW 4.16.310 sets a 6-year statute of repose running from the date of substantial completion.
Debt Collection and Judgments
Creditors have 6 years to sue on a written debt under RCW 4.16.040. Account receivable claims also fall under this 6-year window. Once a judgment is entered, the creditor has 10 years to enforce it under RCW 4.16.020, with the option to renew the judgment under RCW 6.17.020.
For past-due child support that accrued under a court order entered after July 23, 1989, there is no fixed deadline. The time limit extends until the youngest child named in the order turns 18.
2024 Change: Childhood Sexual Abuse Claims
In a significant 2024 reform, Washington passed HB 1618, which amended RCW 4.16.340 to eliminate the civil statute of limitations for intentional childhood sexual abuse. For any act of childhood sexual abuse occurring on or after June 6, 2024, survivors may file a civil lawsuit at any point in their lifetime.
For abuse that occurred before June 6, 2024, the previous rules still apply. Survivors must file within 3 years of discovering (or reasonably should have discovered) that their injury was caused by the abuse. The time limit is tolled while the victim is under 18. Claims that were already time-barred before the new law took effect are not reopened.
This law also allows claims against institutions, such as schools, churches, and youth organizations, that failed to protect children or covered up abuse.
Washington Criminal Statute of Limitations
Washington criminal statutes of limitations are set out in RCW 9A.04.080. These deadlines limit how long after an offense the state can bring criminal charges. The most serious crimes have no time limit, while lesser offenses must be charged within 1 to 10 years.
Crimes With No Time Limit
The following offenses may be prosecuted at any time:
- Murder (all degrees)
- Homicide by abuse
- Arson that causes death
- Vehicular homicide
- Vehicular assault resulting in death
- Hit-and-run causing death
- Rape of a child under 16
- Child molestation
- Trafficking of a minor under 18
- Commercial sexual abuse of a minor
Criminal Filing Deadlines by Offense
| Offense Category | Time Limit | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Murder, homicide by abuse, arson causing death | No limit | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(a) |
| Vehicular homicide/assault causing death | No limit | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(a) |
| Rape of child under 16, child molestation | No limit | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(a) |
| Rape in the first degree | 20 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(b) |
| Rape in the second degree | 20 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(b) |
| Indecent liberties | 20 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(b) |
| Attempted murder | 10 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(c) |
| Arson (not causing death) | 10 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(c) |
| Human trafficking | 10 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(c) |
| Public official misconduct | 10 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(c) |
| Rape in the third degree | 10 years (flat, no age extension) | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(c) |
| Incest (victim under 18) | 10 years, or until victim turns 30 (whichever is later) | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(d) |
| Leading organized crime | 6 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(f) |
| Identity crimes | 6 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(f) |
| Money laundering | 6 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(f) |
| Theft in the first or second degree (by deception) | 6 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(f) |
| Class C felonies (limited to chapters 74.09, 82.36, or 82.38 RCW) | 5 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(g) |
| Bigamy | 3 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(h) |
| All other felonies | 3 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(j) |
| Gross misdemeanors | 2 years | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(k) |
| Misdemeanors | 1 year | RCW 9A.04.080(1)(l) |
Sexual Offenses Against Minors
Washington provides extended deadlines for sexual violence crimes against children. Rape in the third degree carries a flat 10-year statute of limitations with no age extension. Incest against a victim under 18 also carries a 10-year deadline, but that deadline extends until the victim's 30th birthday if that date is later. Commercial sexual abuse of a minor has no statute of limitations at all (see above); it does not belong in this 10-year group.
Rape of a child under 16 and child molestation have no statute of limitations at all.
Tolling Provisions: When the Clock Pauses
Washington law includes several situations where the statute of limitations is paused ("tolled"), giving plaintiffs or prosecutors additional time.
Minors and Individuals With Disabilities
Under RCW 4.16.190, the statute of limitations does not run while the potential plaintiff is:
- Under the age of 18
- Incompetent or disabled to a degree that prevents them from understanding legal proceedings (as determined under RCW Chapter 11.130)
- Imprisoned on a criminal charge prior to sentencing
Once the disability ends (for example, the minor turns 18), the normal statute of limitations period begins.
Defendant Absent From the State
For criminal cases, the statute of limitations does not run during any period when the accused is not "usually and publicly resident" within Washington State. If a suspect flees the state, the clock stops until they return.
Discovery Rule
For certain claims, such as fraud and medical malpractice, Washington uses a "discovery rule." The statute of limitations does not begin until the injured party discovers, or reasonably should have discovered, the injury or wrongful conduct. This prevents defendants from benefiting simply because their misconduct was hidden.
How Washington Compares to Neighboring States
Washington's deadlines fall in the middle range when compared to nearby states. Oregon gives only 2 years for personal injury claims, while Idaho allows 2 years as well. Washington's 3-year window for personal injury is more generous. For written contracts, Oregon allows 6 years (same as Washington), while Idaho gives 5 years.
On the criminal side, Washington is notable for having no statute of limitations on a wide range of violent and sexual crimes against children, placing it among the more protective states for victims.
Practical Tips for Washington Residents
Track your deadlines carefully. The statute of limitations begins on the date of injury or breach in most cases. Mark the date and count forward to know your exact deadline.
Get legal advice early. Even if you believe you have time remaining, gathering evidence and building a case takes time. Contacting an attorney well before the deadline is always wise.
Document everything. Preserve medical records, contracts, receipts, photographs, and correspondence related to your claim. Evidence becomes harder to collect as time passes.
Understand tolling. If you were a minor when the injury occurred, or if the defendant left the state, you may have additional time. An attorney can help determine whether tolling applies in your situation.
Do not assume your claim is time-barred. Some claims use the discovery rule, and others have special tolling provisions. Before giving up on a potential case, confirm the applicable deadline with a licensed Washington attorney.
More Washington Laws
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the statute of limitations for personal injury in Washington?
Washington allows 3 years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit under RCW 4.16.080. This applies to car accidents, slip-and-fall cases, product liability, and most other negligence claims.
Is there a statute of limitations on murder in Washington State?
No. Murder has no statute of limitations in Washington. Under RCW 9A.04.080, the state may prosecute murder charges at any time, regardless of how many years have passed since the offense.
How long do I have to sue for breach of contract in Washington?
It depends on whether the contract was written or oral. Written contracts have a 6-year statute of limitations under RCW 4.16.040. Oral contracts have a 3-year deadline under RCW 4.16.080.
What is the statute of limitations for debt collection in Washington?
Creditors have 6 years to file a lawsuit on a written debt or account receivable under RCW 4.16.040. Once a judgment is obtained, it can be enforced for 10 years under RCW 4.16.020 and may be renewed.
Does the statute of limitations pause if I am a minor in Washington?
Yes. Under RCW 4.16.190, the statute of limitations is tolled (paused) while the potential plaintiff is under 18 years of age. The normal limitation period begins once the individual turns 18.
Updates
Rebuilt the Washington criminal statute-of-limitations table against the current text of RCW 9A.04.080: removed a fabricated 1-year 'penalties' civil category from KeyTakeaways, corrected the age-30 filing extension (it applies to incest, not rape in the third degree, which has a flat 10-year deadline), removed an internal contradiction on commercial sexual abuse of a minor (it has no time limit and was wrongly grouped with the 10-year offenses), narrowed the 5-year Class C felony provision to the specific chapters it actually covers, qualified the 6-year theft period to theft accomplished by deception, and corrected the criminal-table subsection letters throughout.
Independently fact-checked against the cited primary sources; governing law re-checked for recent changes
Corrected: RCW 4.
Governing law re-checked for recent changes
Corrected the wrongful-death filing deadline citation: RCW 4.20.010 creates the right of action but sets no deadline, so the 3-year period is now attributed to the general catch-all in RCW 4.16.080(2).
Governing law re-checked for recent changes
Reviewed and approved by an editor
The Law Behind This Article
This article rests on the statutory provisions below, held in our own legal record and retrieved from the official source. Tap a section to read the operative text.
Revised Code of Washington
§ 4.16.020Actions to be commenced within ten years—Exception.In forcecited in 3 of our articles
The period prescribed for the commencement of actions shall be as follows: Within ten years: (1) For actions for the recovery of real property, or for the recovery of the possession thereof; and no action shall be maintained for such recovery unless it appears that the plaintiff, his or her ancestor, predecessor or grantor was seized or possessed of the premises in question within ten years before the commencement of the action. (2) For an action upon a judgment or decree of any court of the United States, or of any state or territory within the United States, or of any territory or possession of the United States outside the boundaries thereof, or of any extraterritorial court of the United States, unless the period is extended under RCW 6.17.020 or a similar provision in another jurisdiction. (3) Of the eighteenth birthday of the youngest child named in the order for whom support is ordered for an action to collect past due child support that has accrued under an order entered after July 23, 1989, by any of the above-named courts or that has accrued under an administrative order as defined in RCW 74.20A.020(6), which is issued after July 23, 1989.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-09-08 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 142 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
In the courts (editorial summary, independently checked):Highline applied the 10-year period to airport-noise inverse condemnation and remanded disputed damages. Roy allowed tacking through physical transfer despite the deed’s omission. Viewing evidence favorably to the Nickells, Nickell found possession complete before the greenbelt law and reversed summary judgment.
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Highline School District No. 401 v. Port of Seattle (Washington Supreme Court 1976, 87 Wash. 2d 6)✓A school district alleged worsening airport noise damaged nearby schools. Applying RCW 4.16.020's 10-year prescriptive period, the court held evidence of increased operations and noisier aircraft created a fact issue about a new taking, and reversed dismissal of that claim.
- Roy v. Cunningham (Court of Appeals of Washington 1986, 46 Wash. App. 409)✓The Roys and predecessors treated land to an old fence as their own. The court held subjective boundary uncertainty did not defeat hostility and physical transfer permitted tacking despite the deed's omission, affirming adverse-possession title while remanding damages.
- Nickell v. SOUTHVIEW HOMEOWNERS ASS'N (Court of Appeals of Washington 2012, 167 Wash. App. 42)✓Viewing the Nickells’ landscaping evidence favorably on summary judgment, the court found adverse possession complete by June 1995. The 1997 greenbelt law and alleged silence did not defeat their claim; it reversed the association’s judgment and remanded.
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Washington Squatters Rights and Adverse Possession Laws (2026), Squatters Rights by State: Adverse Possession Laws (2026)
§ 4.16.040Actions limited to six years.In forcecited in 2 of our articles
The following actions shall be commenced within six years: (1) An action upon a contract in writing, or liability express or implied arising out of a written agreement, except as provided for in RCW 64.04.007(2). (2) An action upon an account receivable. For purposes of this section, an account receivable is any obligation for payment incurred in the ordinary course of the claimant's business or profession, whether arising from one or more transactions and whether or not earned by performance. (3) An action for the rents and profits or for the use and occupation of real estate.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 295 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- 1000 Virginia Ltd. Partnership v. Vertecs Corp. (Washington Supreme Court 2006, 146 P.3d 423)“…ten contracts with a six-year statute of limitations, see RCW 4.16.040(1), but parties can enter an oral contr…”
- Tingey v. Haisch (Washington Supreme Court 2007, 159 Wash. 2d 652)“…hat his action to collect those fees is not governed by the RCW 4.16.040(2) six-year limitation for "an account…”
- DePhillips v. Zolt Construction Co. (Washington Supreme Court 1998, 136 Wash. 2d 26)“…tations applicable to actions based upon written contracts. RCW 4.16.040(1). The trial court granted summary jud…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Washington Debt Collection Laws: Four Garnishment Tiers and a $600 Weekly Floor
§ 4.16.080Actions limited to three years.In forcecited in 8 of our articles
The following actions shall be commenced within three years: (1) An action for waste or trespass upon real property; (2) An action for taking, detaining, or injuring personal property, including an action for the specific recovery thereof, or for any other injury to the person or rights of another not hereinafter enumerated; (3) Except as provided in RCW 4.16.040(2), an action upon a contract or liability, express or implied, which is not in writing, and does not arise out of any written instrument; (4) An action for relief upon the ground of fraud, the cause of action in such case not to be deemed to have accrued until the discovery by the aggrieved party of the facts constituting the fraud; (5) An action against a sheriff, coroner, or constable upon a liability incurred by the doing of an act in his or her official capacity and by virtue of his or her office, or by the omission of an official duty, including the nonpayment of money collected upon an execution; but this subsection shall not apply to action for an escape; (6) An action against an officer charged with misappropriation or a failure to properly account for public funds intrusted to his or her custody; an action…
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 937 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Robinson v. City of Seattle (Washington Supreme Court 1992, 119 Wash. 2d 34)“…ly for the trial court's grant of HPO payment refunds under RCW 4.16.080(3), but also to what extent such consid…”
- Ruth v. Dight (Washington Supreme Court 1969, 75 Wash. 2d 660)“…tatute of limitations (RCW 4.16.010 *664 and RCW 4.16.080(2)); but defendant estate’s motion rest…”
- Tingey v. Haisch (Washington Supreme Court 2007, 159 Wash. 2d 652)“…applicable statute of limitation for Tingey’s action is the RCW 4.16.080(3) three-year limitation for oral contr…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Washington Dog Bite Laws: Liability and Victim Rights, Washington Car Accident Laws: Fault, Insurance, and Your Claim, Washington Motorcycle Accident Laws (2026): Deadlines & Helmets
§ 4.16.100Actions limited to two years.In forcecited in 3 of our articles
Within two years: (1) An action for libel, slander, assault, assault and battery, or false imprisonment. (2) An action upon a statute for a forfeiture or penalty to the state.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 113 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Tyson v. Tyson (Washington Supreme Court 1986, 107 Wash. 2d 72)“…ght within 3 years of the time the cause of action accrued. RCW 4.16.100(1) provides that an action for assault…”
- Eastwood v. Cascade Broadcasting Co. (Washington Supreme Court 1986, 106 Wash. 2d 466)“…red by the 2-year libel and slander statute of limitations (RCW 4.16.100), but moved for partial summary judgmen…”
- U. S. Oil & Refining Co. v. Department of Ecology (Washington Supreme Court 1981, 96 Wash. 2d 85)“…hat they were barred by the 2-year statute of limitation in RCW 4.16.100(2). The penalties were affirmed upon…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Washington Defamation Laws: Libel, Slander & Suing (2026), Defamation Laws by State: Libel and Slander (2026)
§ 4.16.130Action for relief not otherwise provided for.In force
An action for relief not hereinbefore provided for, shall be commenced within two years after the cause of action shall have accrued.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 117 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Stenberg v. Pacific Power & Light Co. (Washington Supreme Court 1985, 104 Wash. 2d 710)“…al dismissal of their cases by summary judgment pursuant to RCW 4.16.130, the 2-year "catchall" statute of limit…”
- Wallace v. Lewis County (Court of Appeals of Washington 2006, 137 P.3d 101)“…l property is subject to a two-year statute of limitations. RCW 4.16.130; White v. King County, 103 Wash. 32…”
- State v. LG Electronics, Inc. (Washington Supreme Court 2016, 186 Wash. 2d 1)“…erest here are two catchall provisions, RCW 4.16.080(2) and RCW 4.16.130. RCW 4.16.080(2) requires actions seeki…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 4.16.190Statute tolled by personal disability.In forcecited in 2 of our articles
Unless otherwise provided in this section, if a person entitled to bring an action mentioned in this chapter, except for a penalty or forfeiture, or against a sheriff or other officer, for an escape, be at the time the cause of action accrued either under the age of eighteen years, or incompetent or disabled to such a degree that he or she cannot understand the nature of the proceedings, such incompetency or disability as determined according to chapter 11.130 RCW, or imprisoned on a criminal charge prior to sentencing, the time of such disability shall not be a part of the time limited for the commencement of action.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 108 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Young v. Key Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Washington Supreme Court 1989, 112 Wash. 2d 216)“…mitations, overriding the tolling statute for such persons, RCW 4.16.190. We hold that it does not and reverse t…”
- Duke v. Boyd (Washington Supreme Court 1997, 133 Wash. 2d 80)“…the state is not considered part of the limitation period); RCW 4.16.190 (time while person is disabled is not p…”
- Rivas v. Overlake Hosp. Medical Center (Washington Supreme Court 2008, 189 P.3d 753)“…ility as determined according to chapter 11.88 RCW." Former RCW 4.16.190 (1993). [1] We must decide what "as de…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 4.16.310Actions or claims arising from construction, alteration, repair, design, planning, survey, engineering, etc., of improvements upon real property—Accrual and limitations of actions or claims.In force
All claims or causes of action as set forth in RCW 4.16.300 shall accrue, and the applicable statute of limitation shall begin to run only during the period within six years after substantial completion of construction, or during the period within six years after the termination of the services enumerated in RCW 4.16.300, whichever is later. The phrase "substantial completion of construction" shall mean the state of completion reached when an improvement upon real property may be used or occupied for its intended use. Any cause of action which has not accrued within six years after such substantial completion of construction, or within six years after such termination of services, whichever is later, shall be barred: PROVIDED, That this limitation shall not be asserted as a defense by any owner, tenant or other person in possession and control of the improvement at the time such cause of action accrues. The limitations prescribed in this section apply to all claims or causes of action as set forth in RCW 4.16.300 brought in the name or for the benefit of the state which are made or commenced after June 11, 1986.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 82 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Washburn v. Beatt Equipment Co. (Washington Supreme Court 1992, 120 Wash. 2d 246)“…simply does not apply and the builder's statute of repose, RCW 4.16.310, does not bar the suit. We base our dec…”
- 1000 Virginia Ltd. Partnership v. Vertecs Corp. (Washington Supreme Court 2006, 146 P.3d 423)“…statute of limitations and the statute of repose set out in RCW 4.16.310 [2] must be considered. *428 RCW 4.1…”
- Del Guzzi Constr. Co. v. Global Northwest Ltd., Inc. (Washington Supreme Court 1986, 105 Wash. 2d 878)“…ty and Kennedy is barred by the builder limitation statute, RCW 4.16.310. Initially, we must determine if Global…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 4.16.340Actions based on childhood sexual abuse.In force
(1) All claims or causes of action based on intentional conduct brought by any person for recovery of damages for injury suffered as a result of childhood sexual abuse that occurred before June 6, 2024, shall be commenced within the later of the following periods: (a) Within three years of the act alleged to have caused the injury or condition; (b) Within three years of the time the victim discovered or reasonably should have discovered that the injury or condition was caused by said act; or (c) Within three years of the time the victim discovered that the act caused the injury for which the claim is brought: PROVIDED, That the time limit for commencement of an action under this section is tolled for a child until the child reaches the age of eighteen years. (2) The victim need not establish which act in a series of continuing sexual abuse or exploitation incidents caused the injury complained of, but may compute the date of discovery from the date of discovery of the last act by the same perpetrator which is part of a common scheme or plan of sexual abuse or exploitation.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 62 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- CJC v. Corporation of Catholic Bishop (Washington Supreme Court 1999, 985 P.2d 262)“…e consolidated cases we are asked to determine the scope of RCW 4.16.340, the statute of limitations applicable…”
- C.J.C. v. Corporation of Catholic Bishop (Washington Supreme Court 1999, 138 Wash. 2d 699)“…The majority’s rule tolls the statute of limitation under RCW 4.16.340 not just for suits against the abuser,…”
- DeYoung v. Providence Medical Center (Washington Supreme Court 1998, 136 Wash. 2d 136)“…ntentional conduct and childhood sexual abuse as defined in RCW 4.16.340(5). Although not all claims of person…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 4.16.350Action for injuries resulting from health care or related services—Physicians, dentists, nurses, etc.—Hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, etc.In forcecited in 2 of our articles
Any civil action for damages for injury occurring as a result of health care which is provided after June 25, 1976, against: (1) A person licensed by this state to provide health care or related services, including, but not limited to, a physician, osteopathic physician, dentist, nurse, optometrist, podiatric physician and surgeon, chiropractor, physical therapist, psychologist, pharmacist, optician, physician's assistant, osteopathic physician's assistant, nurse practitioner, or physician's trained mobile intensive care paramedic, including, in the event such person is deceased, his or her estate or personal representative; (2) An employee or agent of a person described in subsection (1) of this section, acting in the course and scope of his or her employment, including, in the event such employee or agent is deceased, his or her estate or personal representative; or (3) An entity, whether or not incorporated, facility, or institution employing one or more persons described in subsection (1) of this section, including, but not limited to, a hospital, clinic, health maintenance organization, or nursing home; or an officer, director, employee, or agent thereof acting in the…
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 148 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- CJC v. Corporation of Catholic Bishop (Washington Supreme Court 1999, 985 P.2d 262)“…addition, as part of the same act, the Legislature amended RCW 4.16.350, the statute of limitations for profess…”
- Berger v. Sonneland (Washington Supreme Court 2001, 144 Wash. 2d 91)“…power, hereby modifies as set forth in this chapter and in RCW 4.16.350, as now or hereafter amended, certain s…”
- C.J.C. v. Corporation of Catholic Bishop (Washington Supreme Court 1999, 138 Wash. 2d 699)“…addition, as part of the same act, the Legislature amended RCW 4.16.350, the statute of limitations for profess…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Medical Malpractice Laws in Washington (2026): Deadlines & Caps
§ 4.20.010Wrongful death—Right of action.In forcecited in 4 of our articles
(1) When the death of a person is caused by the wrongful act, neglect, or default of another person, his or her personal representative may maintain an action against the person causing the death for the economic and noneconomic damages sustained by the beneficiaries listed in RCW 4.20.020 as a result of the decedent's death, in such amounts as determined by a trier of fact to be just under all the circumstances of the case. (2) This section applies regardless of whether or not the death was caused under such circumstances as amount, in law, to a felony.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-09-06 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 122 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2025
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Herskovits v. Group Health Cooperative (Washington Supreme Court 1983, 99 Wash. 2d 609)“…f survival can be brought under the wrongful death statute, RCW 4.20.010. Confronted with these problems, and…”
- Philippides v. Bernard (Washington Supreme Court 2004, 151 Wash. 2d 376)“…entative of his estate, filed a wrongful death action under RCW 4.20.010. Philippides’ parents brought an action…”
- Gray v. Goodson (Washington Supreme Court 1963, 61 Wash. 2d 319)“…in a judgment during her lifetime, abate upon her death? RCW 4.20.010 provides in part: “When the death of…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
Also relied on in: Washington Wrongful Death Laws (2026): Deadlines & Who Sues
§ 6.17.020Execution authorized within 10 years—Exceptions—Fee—Recoverable cost.In force
(1) Except as provided in subsections (2), (3), and (4) of this section, the party in whose favor a judgment of a court has been or may be filed or rendered, or the assignee or the current holder thereof, may have an execution, garnishment, or other legal process issued for the collection or enforcement of the judgment at any time within 10 years from entry of the judgment or the filing of the judgment in this state. (2) After July 23, 1989, a party who obtains a judgment or order of a court or an administrative order entered as defined in RCW 74.20A.020(6) for accrued child support, or the assignee or the current holder thereof, may have an execution, garnishment, or other legal process issued upon that judgment or order at any time within 10 years of the 18th birthday of the youngest child named in the order for whom support is ordered.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 72 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Hazel v. Van Beek (Washington Supreme Court 1998, 135 Wash. 2d 45)“…ion to Fogle’s Garage rests primarily upon her reading of RCW 6.17.020(1), which states: Except as provided…”
- American Discount Corp. v. Shepherd (Washington Supreme Court 2007, 160 Wash. 2d 93)“…18 (dissenting) — The majority’s perfunctory discussion of RCW 6.17.020 is contrary to the legislature’s intent…”
- Bell v. Heflin (Washington Supreme Court 2016, 187 Wash. 2d 1)“…r RCW 26.21A.515(2). 4 Heflin argues that RCW 4.56.210 and RCW 6.17.020 are not statutes of limitation. This is…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
§ 7.70.110Mandatory mediation of health care claims—Tolling statute of limitations.In force
The making of a written, good faith request for mediation of a dispute related to damages for injury occurring as a result of health care prior to filing a cause of action under this chapter shall toll the statute of limitations provided in RCW 4.16.350 for one year.
Official text (excerpt) · last checked 2026-07-29 · Read the full text in our law library · Verify at app.leg.wa.gov
Cited in 32 court opinions in our collectionLatest citing opinion in our collection: 2026
Opinions citing this section in our collection:
- Fast v. Kennewick Public Hospital District (Washington Supreme Court 2016, 187 Wash. 2d 27)“…uest, applies to the child death claim. See RCW 4.16.350; RCW 7.70.110, .010. Restated, the MNSOL applies in t…”
- Unruh v. Cacchiotti (Washington Supreme Court 2011, 172 Wash. 2d 98)“…iotti’s insurance representative requesting mediation under RCW 7.70.110. The insurance representative responded…”
- CORTEZ-KLOEHN v. Morrison (Court of Appeals of Washington 2011, 162 Wash. App. 166)“…006). ¶ 10 The plaintiffs argue that a different statute, RCW 7.70.110, creates a four year limitations period…”
Identified automatically from the court opinions citing this section — not a ranking of which case controls.
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This article also draws on these acts and chapters (opening at their first section): Revised Code of Washington § 4.16.005 (Commencement of actions.)
Related law for further reading — not part of this article’s citations.
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Sources and References
- Chapter 4.16 RCW: Limitation of Actions(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 4.16.020: Actions to Be Commenced Within Ten Years(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 4.16.040: Actions Limited to Six Years(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 4.16.080: Actions Limited to Three Years(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 4.16.100: Actions Limited to Two Years(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 4.16.190: Statute Tolled by Personal Disability(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 4.16.310: Actions Arising From Construction Improvements(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 4.16.340: Actions Based on Childhood Sexual Abuse(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 4.16.350: Medical Malpractice Limitation of Actions(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 4.20.010: Wrongful Death Right of Action(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 6.17.020: Execution Authorized Within 10 Years(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 7.70.110: Mandatory Mediation of Health Care Claims(app.leg.wa.gov).gov
- RCW 9A.04.080: Limitation of Actions (Criminal)(app.leg.wa.gov).gov