FirmTimerFirmTimerCalculate accurate filing deadlines for various causes of action in Iowa. This tool provides statute citations, legal notes, and important deadline information for your case.
Statute may be tolled until age of majority
Statute may be tolled due to disability
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June 16, 2027
2-year limit for injury to person. Products liability actions barred if brought >15 years after product first used. No general discovery rule (latent disease from harmful material accrues on discovery).
Last reviewed 6/9/2025
Firm Timer helps you track every minute of your workday, ensuring you never miss a billable hour again. Our intuitive time tracking software is designed for law firms, making it easy to capture time on the go.
| Cause of Action | Statute of Limitations | Discovery Rule | Statute of Repose | Legal Citation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Injury | 2 years | No | 15 years | Iowa Code § 614.1(2) |
| Wrongful Death | 2 years | No | — | Iowa Code § 614.1(2) |
| Property Damage | 5 years | Yes | — | Iowa Code § 614.1(4) |
| Written Contract | 10 years | No | — | Iowa Code § 614.1(5)(a) |
| Oral Contract | 5 years | No | — | Iowa Code § 614.1(4) |
| Defamation | 2 years | No | — | Iowa Code § 614.1(2) |
| Medical Malpractice | 2 years | Yes | 6 years | Iowa Code § 614.1(9)(a) |
| Consumer Debt | 5 years | No | — | Iowa Code § 614.1(4) |
Common questions about Iowa statutes of limitations
The shortest deadline in Iowa is 2 years for personal injury claims, while the longest is 10 years for written contract disputes. Missing these cut-offs—even by a day—can permanently bar recovery.
Note: Iowa also enforces statutes of repose, which create an absolute bar after a set number of years, regardless of when the injury is discovered. Our calculator flags these where applicable.
A statute of limitations sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. In Iowa, these time limits vary by the type of claim or offense.
Missing a filing deadline can permanently bar your claim, regardless of its merit. This calculator helps you determine the deadline for your specific case, but always consult with a qualified attorney for legal advice.
For more information about Iowa law, visit the official Iowa courts or legislature website.