Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations Reference - Revision history

MesotheliomaSupport: Fix structural reference errors: remove orphaned refs (RON-2026-04-05-003)

2026-04-06T10:12:24Z

Fix structural reference errors: remove orphaned refs (RON-2026-04-05-003)

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:12, 6 April 2026
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	<ref name="mlc_claims">[https://www.mesotheliomalawyercenter.org/mesothelioma-claims-law/ Mesothelioma Claims and Asbestos Litigation] - Mesothelioma Lawyer Center, retrieved February 2026.</ref>		<ref name="mlc_claims">[https://www.mesotheliomalawyercenter.org/mesothelioma-claims-law/ Mesothelioma Claims and Asbestos Litigation] - Mesothelioma Lawyer Center, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
	<ref name="mnet_trusts">[https://mesothelioma.net/mesothelioma-asbestos-trust-funds/ Mesothelioma Asbestos Trust Funds] - Mesothelioma.net, retrieved February 2026.</ref>		<ref name="mnet_trusts">[https://mesothelioma.net/mesothelioma-asbestos-trust-funds/ Mesothelioma Asbestos Trust Funds] - Mesothelioma.net, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
	~~<ref name="mesoa_comp">[https://mesotheliomaattorney.com/mesothelioma/compensation/ Mesothelioma Compensation Guide] - MesotheliomaAttorney.com, retrieved February 2026.</ref>~~
	<ref name="ncsl">National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), "Civil Statutes of Limitations," https://www.ncsl.org/research/civil-and-criminal-justice/civil-statutes-of-limitations.aspx, retrieved February 2026.</ref>		<ref name="ncsl">National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), "Civil Statutes of Limitations," https://www.ncsl.org/research/civil-and-criminal-justice/civil-statutes-of-limitations.aspx, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
	<ref name="nih_latency">[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519550/ Asbestos-Related Diseases: Latency and Health Effects] - National Institutes of Health, retrieved February 2026.</ref>		<ref name="nih_latency">[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519550/ Asbestos-Related Diseases: Latency and Health Effects] - National Institutes of Health, retrieved February 2026.</ref>

MesotheliomaSupport: Add external link: Asbestos Statute of Limitations | Filing Deadlines for Asbestos Claims (Nexus outreach pipeline)

2026-04-04T12:20:30Z

Add external link: Asbestos Statute of Limitations | Filing Deadlines for Asbestos Claims (Nexus outreach pipeline)

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:20, 4 April 2026
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	* [https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/compensation/statute-of-limitations/ Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations \| State Deadlines on Lawsuits]		* [https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/compensation/statute-of-limitations/ Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations \| State Deadlines on Lawsuits]
	* [https://mesothelioma-lung-cancer.org/answers/legal/statute-of-limitations-mesothelioma/ What Is the Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma? \| Attorney Answer]		* [https://mesothelioma-lung-cancer.org/answers/legal/statute-of-limitations-mesothelioma/ What Is the Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma? \| Attorney Answer]
			* [https://www.lungcancergroup.com/legal/statute-of-limitations/ Asbestos Statute of Limitations \| Filing Deadlines for Asbestos Claims]

MesotheliomaSupport: Add external link: What Is the Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma? | Attorney Answer (Nexus outreach pipeline)

2026-04-04T12:14:19Z

Add external link: What Is the Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma? | Attorney Answer (Nexus outreach pipeline)

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:14, 4 April 2026
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	== External Links ==		== External Links ==
	* [https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/compensation/statute-of-limitations/ Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations \| State Deadlines on Lawsuits]		* [https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/compensation/statute-of-limitations/ Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations \| State Deadlines on Lawsuits]
			* [https://mesothelioma-lung-cancer.org/answers/legal/statute-of-limitations-mesothelioma/ What Is the Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma? \| Attorney Answer]

MesotheliomaSupport: Add external link: Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations | State Deadlines on Lawsuits (Nexus outreach pipeline)

2026-04-04T12:14:07Z

Add external link: Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations | State Deadlines on Lawsuits (Nexus outreach pipeline)

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:14, 4 April 2026
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	[[Category:Mesothelioma Lawsuits]]		[[Category:Mesothelioma Lawsuits]]
	[[Category:Quick Reference]]		[[Category:Quick Reference]]

			== External Links ==
			* [https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/compensation/statute-of-limitations/ Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations \| State Deadlines on Lawsuits]

MesotheliomaSupport: New Quick Reference page: Statute of Limitations Reference — 50-state SOL table, FAQ, and own-domain links

2026-02-20T21:37:04Z

New Quick Reference page: Statute of Limitations Reference — 50-state SOL table, FAQ, and own-domain links

New page

{{#seo:
|title=Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations by State: Complete 2026 Filing Deadline Guide
|description=State-by-state mesothelioma statute of limitations guide. Personal injury and wrongful death filing deadlines, discovery rule explained, and when to take legal action.
|keywords=mesothelioma statute of limitations, asbestos lawsuit deadline, mesothelioma filing deadline by state, discovery rule mesothelioma, wrongful death statute of limitations
|published_time=2026-02-20
}}
= Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations by State: Complete 2026 Filing Deadline Guide =

== Overview ==

The '''statute of limitations''' (SOL) sets the legal deadline for filing a [[Mesothelioma Lawsuits|mesothelioma lawsuit]].<ref name="dandell_sol" /> Deadlines vary by state, typically ranging from '''1 to 6 years''' from diagnosis (personal injury) or from date of death (wrongful death). Most states follow the '''"discovery rule"''' — the clock starts when the disease is diagnosed or reasonably should have been discovered, not when the original asbestos exposure occurred.<ref name="ncsl" /> This is critical for mesothelioma cases because the [[Mesothelioma Latency Period|latency period]] between exposure and diagnosis averages 20 to 50 years.<ref name="nih_latency" />

Missing the filing deadline '''permanently bars''' all compensation rights, regardless of case merit.<ref name="dandell_claims" /> Consulting an experienced [[Choosing a Mesothelioma Attorney|mesothelioma attorney]] immediately after diagnosis is essential. Families should be aware that personal injury and wrongful death deadlines often differ within the same state, and that [[Asbestos Trust Funds|trust fund claims]] and [[Veterans Benefits|VA disability claims]] operate on separate timelines.<ref name="mlc_claims" />

== Key Facts ==

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; margin:1em 0; border-collapse:collapse;"
|-
! style="background:#1a5276; color:white; padding:12px; text-align:left; width:45%;" | Statute of Limitations Factor
! style="background:#1a5276; color:white; padding:12px; text-align:left;" | Details
|-
| style="padding:12px; font-weight:bold; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Shortest State SOL
| style="padding:12px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''1 year''' (Kentucky, Louisiana, Tennessee for personal injury)<ref name="dandell_sol" />
|-
| style="padding:12px; font-weight:bold; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Longest State SOL
| style="padding:12px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''6 years''' (Maine, North Dakota for personal injury)<ref name="ncsl" />
|-
| style="padding:12px; font-weight:bold; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Most Common SOL
| style="padding:12px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''2-3 years''' (majority of states)
|-
| style="padding:12px; font-weight:bold; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Discovery Rule
| style="padding:12px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Applied in most states (clock starts at diagnosis, not exposure)<ref name="nih_latency" />
|-
| style="padding:12px; font-weight:bold; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Wrongful Death SOL
| style="padding:12px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Typically '''1-3 years''' from date of death<ref name="dandell_wrongful_death" />
|-
| style="padding:12px; font-weight:bold; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Trust Fund Deadlines
| style="padding:12px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Separate from lawsuit SOL (varies by trust)<ref name="mnet_trusts" />
|-
| style="padding:12px; font-weight:bold; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | VA Claims Deadline
| style="padding:12px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''No statute of limitations''' for VA disability claims<ref name="va_gov" />
|-
| style="padding:12px; font-weight:bold;" | Federal Lawsuits
| style="padding:12px;" | Subject to state SOL where exposure occurred<ref name="uscourts" />
|}

== State-by-State Statute of Limitations ==

The following table lists the personal injury (PI) and wrongful death (WD) statute of limitations for mesothelioma lawsuits in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. All states listed apply the discovery rule, meaning the filing deadline begins at the time of diagnosis or when the disease reasonably should have been discovered.<ref name="dandell_sol" /><ref name="ncsl" />

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="width:100%; margin:1em 0; border-collapse:collapse;"
|-
! style="background:#1a5276; color:white; padding:10px; text-align:left;" | State
! style="background:#1a5276; color:white; padding:10px; text-align:center;" | Personal Injury SOL
! style="background:#1a5276; color:white; padding:10px; text-align:center;" | Wrongful Death SOL
! style="background:#1a5276; color:white; padding:10px; text-align:center;" | Discovery Rule
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Alabama
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Alaska
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Arizona
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Arkansas
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | California
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Colorado
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Connecticut
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Delaware
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | District of Columbia
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Florida
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 4 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Georgia
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Hawaii
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Idaho
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Illinois
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Indiana
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Iowa
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Kansas
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''Kentucky'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''1 year'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''1 year'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''Louisiana'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''1 year'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''1 year'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''Maine'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''6 years'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Maryland
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Massachusetts
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Michigan
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Minnesota
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 4 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Mississippi
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Missouri
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 5 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Montana
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Nebraska
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 4 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Nevada
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | New Hampshire
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | New Jersey
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | New Mexico
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | New York
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | North Carolina
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''North Dakota'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''6 years'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Ohio
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Oklahoma
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Oregon
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Pennsylvania
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Rhode Island
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | South Carolina
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | South Dakota
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''Tennessee'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''1 year'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | '''1 year'''
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Texas
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Utah
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 4 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Vermont
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Virginia
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Washington
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | West Virginia
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Wisconsin
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | 3 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center; border-bottom:1px solid #dee2e6;" | Yes
|-
| style="padding:8px;" | Wyoming
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center;" | 4 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center;" | 2 years
| style="padding:8px; text-align:center;" | Yes
|}

== Frequently Asked Questions ==

=== What is the statute of limitations for mesothelioma? ===

The statute of limitations for mesothelioma is the state-imposed legal deadline for filing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit after diagnosis. It ranges from '''1 year''' (Kentucky, Louisiana, Tennessee) to '''6 years''' (Maine, North Dakota) depending on the state.<ref name="dandell_sol" /> Once this deadline passes, courts will dismiss the case regardless of its merit or the severity of the illness.

=== When does the statute of limitations start for mesothelioma? ===

In most states, the statute of limitations begins on the '''date of diagnosis''' under the discovery rule, not when the original asbestos exposure occurred.<ref name="ncsl" /> Because mesothelioma has a [[Mesothelioma Latency Period|latency period]] of 20 to 50 years, applying the discovery rule is critical to preserving victims' legal rights.<ref name="nih_latency" /> Some states start the clock when the victim knew or reasonably should have known about the disease.

=== What happens if I miss the filing deadline? ===

Missing the statute of limitations '''permanently eliminates''' the right to file a lawsuit for that claim. Courts will dismiss the case upon the defendant's motion, and there are no standard extensions or exceptions for mesothelioma cases in most states.<ref name="dandell_claims" /> However, asbestos trust fund claims and VA disability claims operate on separate timelines and may still be available.<ref name="mnet_trusts" /><ref name="va_gov" />

=== Does the discovery rule apply to mesothelioma cases? ===

Yes. Nearly all states apply the discovery rule to mesothelioma and other latent disease cases. This means the filing deadline clock begins when the patient is '''diagnosed''' with mesothelioma or when a reasonable person would have discovered the disease, rather than when the asbestos exposure first occurred decades earlier.<ref name="ncsl" /><ref name="nih_latency" />

=== Is there a statute of limitations for VA disability claims? ===

No. There is '''no statute of limitations''' for filing VA disability claims related to mesothelioma.<ref name="va_gov" /> Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma can file for VA disability benefits at any time, and mesothelioma qualifies for a presumptive 100% disability rating. Veterans should still file civil lawsuits and trust fund claims promptly, as those have separate state-imposed deadlines.<ref name="dandell_veterans" />

=== Can I file in a different state than where I live? ===

Yes. Mesothelioma lawsuits can often be filed in the state where the asbestos exposure occurred, where the defendant company is headquartered, or where the victim currently resides.<ref name="mlc_claims" /> Experienced [[Choosing a Mesothelioma Attorney|mesothelioma attorneys]] evaluate all available jurisdictions to select the venue with the most favorable laws, longest deadlines, and strongest precedent for the specific case.<ref name="dandell_sol" />

== Quick Statistics ==

* '''3 states''' have a 1-year personal injury filing deadline: Kentucky, Louisiana, and Tennessee<ref name="dandell_sol" />
* '''2 states''' have the longest personal injury SOL at 6 years: Maine and North Dakota<ref name="ncsl" />
* '''20+ states''' set the personal injury SOL at 2 years, making it the most common deadline<ref name="ncsl" />
* '''Over $30 billion''' remains in asbestos trust funds with separate filing deadlines from lawsuits<ref name="mnet_trusts" />
* '''20-50 years''' is the typical mesothelioma latency period, which is why the discovery rule is essential<ref name="nih_latency" />
* '''100% VA disability rating''' is available to veterans with mesothelioma with no filing deadline<ref name="va_gov" />

== Get Help ==

{| style="width:100%; border:2px solid #1a5276; border-radius:4px; margin:1em 0;"
|-
| style="padding:15px;" |
'''Do not let a filing deadline eliminate your compensation rights.''' The statute of limitations is unforgiving — once the deadline passes, the right to file is permanently lost. Contact a mesothelioma attorney immediately after diagnosis.

* '''[https://dandell.com/ Danziger & De Llano]''' — Free case review, no upfront costs. Call '''(866) 222-9990'''
* '''[https://mesotheliomalawyersnearme.com/ Mesothelioma Lawyers Near Me]''' — Find a mesothelioma attorney in your state
* '''[https://www.mesotheliomalawyercenter.org/ Mesothelioma Lawyer Center]''' — Legal resources and filing guidance
|}

== Related Pages ==

* [[Statute of Limitations by State]] — Detailed filing deadline analysis
* [[Mesothelioma Lawsuits]] — Overview of the litigation process
* [[Mesothelioma Claim Process]] — Step-by-step guide from diagnosis to compensation
* [[Mesothelioma Settlements]] — Settlement values and factors affecting recovery
* [[Asbestos Trust Funds]] — Trust fund claims with separate filing deadlines

== References ==
<references>
<ref name="dandell_sol">[https://dandell.com/mesothelioma-law-lawsuits/mesothelioma-statute-of-limitations/ Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations] - Danziger & De Llano, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
<ref name="dandell_claims">[https://dandell.com/mesothelioma/mesothelioma-compensation/filing-mesothelioma-claims-guide/ Filing Mesothelioma Claims Guide] - Danziger & De Llano, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
<ref name="dandell_wrongful_death">[https://dandell.com/mesothelioma/asbestos-claims-after-death/ Asbestos Claims After Death: Wrongful Death Lawsuits] - Danziger & De Llano, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
<ref name="dandell_veterans">[https://dandell.com/mesothelioma-veterans/ Mesothelioma Veterans Benefits and Claims] - Danziger & De Llano, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
<ref name="mlc_claims">[https://www.mesotheliomalawyercenter.org/mesothelioma-claims-law/ Mesothelioma Claims and Asbestos Litigation] - Mesothelioma Lawyer Center, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
<ref name="mnet_trusts">[https://mesothelioma.net/mesothelioma-asbestos-trust-funds/ Mesothelioma Asbestos Trust Funds] - Mesothelioma.net, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
<ref name="mesoa_comp">[https://mesotheliomaattorney.com/mesothelioma/compensation/ Mesothelioma Compensation Guide] - MesotheliomaAttorney.com, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
<ref name="ncsl">National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), "Civil Statutes of Limitations," https://www.ncsl.org/research/civil-and-criminal-justice/civil-statutes-of-limitations.aspx, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
<ref name="nih_latency">[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519550/ Asbestos-Related Diseases: Latency and Health Effects] - National Institutes of Health, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
<ref name="va_gov">[https://www.va.gov/disability/eligibility/hazardous-materials-exposure/asbestos/ VA Disability for Asbestos Exposure] - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
<ref name="uscourts">[https://www.uscourts.gov/about-federal-courts/types-cases Federal Courts: Types of Cases] - United States Courts, retrieved February 2026.</ref>
</references>

'''Disclaimer:''' Statutes of limitations are subject to legislative changes and judicial interpretation. Individual case deadlines may differ based on specific circumstances including date of diagnosis, state of residence, and type of claim. This reference provides general educational guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified mesothelioma attorney for case-specific deadline evaluation.

'''Last Updated:''' February 2026

[[Category:Legal]]
[[Category:Statute of Limitations]]
[[Category:State Laws]]
[[Category:Mesothelioma Lawsuits]]
[[Category:Quick Reference]]

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	* [https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/compensation/statute-of-limitations/ Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations \| State Deadlines on Lawsuits]		* [https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/compensation/statute-of-limitations/ Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations \| State Deadlines on Lawsuits]
	* [https://mesothelioma-lung-cancer.org/answers/legal/statute-of-limitations-mesothelioma/ What Is the Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma? \| Attorney Answer]		* [https://mesothelioma-lung-cancer.org/answers/legal/statute-of-limitations-mesothelioma/ What Is the Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma? \| Attorney Answer]
			* [https://www.lungcancergroup.com/legal/statute-of-limitations/ Asbestos Statute of Limitations \| Filing Deadlines for Asbestos Claims]