Federal Statute of Limitations for Fraud

Understanding the federal statute of limitations for fraud is essential for anyone who might have to bring or defend against a claim. The statute of limitations is a legal concept that sets a deadline for filing charges or civil suits. Once the deadline passes, prosecutors generally cannot bring criminal charges, and plaintiffs usually cannot file a civil claim, even if the underlying conduct appears fraudulent. The purpose of a limitation period is to ensure cases are prosecuted while evidence is still reasonably fresh and memories are intact, thereby protecting both victims and defendants from unfair prejudice. It also promotes finality by preventing people from having to defend themselves against allegations that are decades old.

For most federal criminal fraud cases, the period for filing charges is five years. This general rule comes from 18 U.S.C. § 3282, which requires the government to indict a defendant within five years after the offense is committed. Importantly, the clock typically begins when the fraudulent act occurs or when the last act in a continuing fraud scheme is completed—not when the crime is discovered. There is no broad discovery rule for criminal fraud. Only in limited circumstances, such as certain civil securities fraud cases (which must be brought within two years of discovery but no more than five years after the violation), does federal law allow the clock to start upon discovery. Misunderstanding this distinction can result in missed deadlines and lost legal rights.

Federal fraud laws cover a wide range of deceptive practices. Common examples include bank fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud and securities fraud. Each type of fraud has specific statutes of limitations, defenses and exceptions. For instance, bank fraud cases involving financial institutions often allow prosecutors up to ten years to bring charges, while allegations of false statements to federal agents—such as lying to the FBI—must be filed within five years. Specialized schemes such as healthcare fraud or insurance fraud can have unique rules at the federal or state level. Knowing which limitation period applies to a particular allegation is critical for both plaintiffs and defendants.

Exceptions exist, allowing extensions in specific situations. When a fraud scheme affects a financial institution, Congress has extended the statute of limitations to ten years. In civil securities fraud suits, the Sarbanes–Oxley Act imposes a two‑year discovery period and a five‑year absolute cutoff. Some state-law claims, such as Texas insurance fraud, permit the clock to start when the fraud reasonably should have been discovered. Understanding these nuances is vital for anyone involved in a fraud dispute. The statute of limitations aims to balance the rights of victims and defendants, ensuring timely prosecutions while preserving the integrity of evidence. Because each case is different, legal advice is often necessary to navigate these complexities.

In this article, we will explore the intricacies of federal fraud statutes of limitations. We will discuss the general five‑year rule, the extended periods for certain offenses, the limited discovery rule, differences between federal and state law, and the practical implications of missing a deadline. Links to relevant practice‑area pages on our site—such as bank fraud, wire fraud and securities fraud—provide additional information about each type of case and the defenses available.

Understanding the Federal Statute of Limitations for Fraud

The federal statute of limitations for fraud determines how long after the commission of a fraudulent act the government has to bring charges. Under 18 U.S.C. § 3282, most federal non‑capital offenses must be prosecuted within five years. This rule applies to a wide variety of fraud crimes, including false statements to federal agents, standard wire fraud and mail fraud schemes that do not involve a financial institution. The limitation period is designed to protect defendants from outdated claims and to encourage law enforcement to investigate promptly.

The general five‑year statute is not rigid but it is the starting point for analysis. When Congress enacted the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act (FIRREA), it extended the statute to ten years for frauds that affect financial institutions. Section 3293 of Title 18 applies this ten‑year period to bank fraud cases, as well as to mail fraud and wire fraud schemes that affect a bank or other financial institution. The rationale is that complex fraud schemes against financial institutions may take years to uncover and prosecute. Thus, while the five‑year rule is the baseline, bank‑related crimes are treated more severely, reflecting their economic impact.

Two key purposes of the federal statute of limitations are protecting defendants from stale claims and preserving the reliability of evidence. Fraud investigations often rely on complex financial records and witness testimony. Over time, documents can be lost and memories fade, making it harder to defend against allegations. By imposing a deadline, the law ensures that cases are built on fresh evidence and that defendants are not constantly looking over their shoulders. At the same time, the statute motivates prosecutors to act diligently. Once the deadline passes, charges are generally barred—although certain tolling provisions and exceptions may pause or extend the clock.

Several factors influence the duration and application of the statute:

• Type of fraud involved – Different statutes govern different offenses. Standard wire and mail fraud cases have a five‑year limitation, while bank‑related fraud can be prosecuted for up to ten years. Civil securities fraud claims are governed by separate rules that include a discovery element. State‑level claims, such as insurance fraud, may have different periods and rules.
• Date of occurrence versus discovery – For criminal fraud, the clock generally starts when the offense is complete. There is no broad discovery rule; the government does not get more time simply because the fraud remained hidden. By contrast, in civil securities actions and some state‑law claims, the statute may begin when the fraud is or should have been discovered.
• Involvement of financial institutions – Cases involving banks or other financial institutions usually have a longer limitations period. Under 18 U.S.C. § 3293, mail fraud or wire fraud schemes that affect a financial institution, as well as bank fraud, may be prosecuted for up to ten years. Our mortgage fraud page explains that the statute of limitations is ten years and can be extended if a defendant flees the country.

Federal fraud laws aim to prevent and punish deceptive behavior comprehensively. They encompass securities fraud, healthcare fraud, Ponzi schemes, tax evasion and other white‑collar crimes. Each of these offenses falls under specific statutes that can affect the applicable limitations period. Misinterpreting which statute applies can lead to costly strategic errors. Whether you are a potential plaintiff or defendant, becoming familiar with these rules—and consulting an experienced attorney—are crucial steps toward navigating the legal system effectively.

Key Federal Fraud Laws and Their Statutes of Limitations

Federal fraud laws form a vast network aimed at deterring deceptive conduct and protecting the integrity of financial transactions. While the underlying behavior may be similar—using lies or misrepresentations to obtain money or property—Congress has enacted different laws to address different contexts. Understanding each law and its limitations period helps parties assess their exposure and plan their defense or prosecution strategy.

Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343) – Wire fraud covers schemes that use telecommunications or electronic communications to further a fraudulent plan. In most cases, prosecutors must bring charges within five years of the offense. However, if the scheme affects a financial institution, the limitations period extends to ten years. Our wire fraud practice page explains how these cases involve complex government discovery and why representation by a skilled defense lawyer is critical.

Mail Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341) – Mail fraud is similar to wire fraud but involves the use of the U.S. Postal Service or other carriers to execute a scheme. The general statute of limitations is five years, but it is extended to ten years if a financial institution is victimized. The firm’s mail fraud page discusses the elements of mail fraud and common defenses.

Bank Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1344) – Bank fraud involves defrauding a financial institution or obtaining money under false pretenses. Because of the potential for significant losses, Congress set the limitations period at ten years. Our bank fraud and mortgage fraud pages explain that prosecutors have a longer window to file charges and that fleeing the country may toll the statute.

Securities Fraud – Federal securities laws prohibit manipulative or deceptive practices in the sale of securities. Criminal securities fraud is generally subject to the same five‑year statute as other fraud crimes, unless it affects a financial institution. For civil actions, the statute of limitations under 28 U.S.C. § 1658(b) provides that suits must be filed within two years of when the violation is discovered and no more than five years after the violation occurred. Our securities fraud page notes that failing to bring a claim within the prescribed period can bar recovery.

False Statements and Lying to the FBI – Making false statements to federal agents (18 U.S.C. § 1001) is itself a federal offense. The statute of limitations for lying to the FBI is five years, and the clock begins on the date the false statement is made or the false document is submitted. If you are under investigation, our blog post on lying to the FBI explains what constitutes a false statement and how quickly charges must be filed.

Healthcare Fraud – Healthcare fraud (sometimes called medical fraud) covers schemes to defraud public health programs or private insurers. Federal healthcare fraud prosecutions often treat the offense as a continuing crime. While the general statute is five years under § 3282, the clock may begin at the last act of the fraudulent scheme. Our federal medical fraud page notes that asserting the statute of limitations is one possible defense.

Insurance Fraud – Although insurance fraud can be prosecuted federally, many cases arise under state law. In Texas, for example, the statute of limitations for felony insurance fraud begins when the fraud is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered. If you face such charges, consult our insurance fraud page for state‑specific guidance.

Other White‑Collar Crimes – Fraud‑related statutes such as tax fraud, embezzlement, identity theft and money laundering have their own limitations periods. In many cases, the general five‑year rule applies, but other statutes (such as those covering bank fraud or tax fraud) may extend or alter the limitations period. Consulting an attorney is the best way to determine which deadline applies in a given case.

Each type of fraud has unique elements that affect its statute of limitations. These elements include when the offense was completed, whether the defendant’s actions involved a financial institution, and how the law defines discovery in civil suits. Understanding these intricacies is essential for anyone involved in fraud litigation. Legal counsel ensures compliance with the correct statute and offers protection under the law. Because statutes vary, professional guidance can clarify the legal landscape and help you avoid filing too late or failing to raise a time‑bar defense.

The Statute of Limitations for Bank Fraud and Other Common Federal Frauds

Bank fraud is one of the most severe forms of financial deception. Reflecting this seriousness, the statute of limitations for bank fraud is generally ten years. The extended timeframe recognizes that schemes involving financial institutions often require more time to uncover and prosecute. For instance, a mortgage fraud scheme may involve multiple loans, false documents and straw buyers, and law enforcement might not detect the fraud until years later. On our mortgage fraudpage, we explain that crimes such as wire fraud, bank fraud or conspiracy carry a ten‑year limitation period and that fleeing the country can pause or extend the clock.

In contrast, many other federal frauds have shorter limitations.  Wire fraud and mail fraud generally carry a five‑year statute unless they affect a financial institution, in which case the ten‑year period applies. These crimes often involve deceptive communications or shipments that cross state lines. Because the evidence can become stale quickly, prosecutors must act within the five‑year window. Our wire fraud and mail fraud pages outline the elements of these offenses and common defenses.

Healthcare fraud presents its own challenges. Prosecutors sometimes treat healthcare fraud as a continuing offense, meaning the statute may start at the last fraudulent act rather than the first. While the general limitations period is five years, certain circumstances—such as involvement by government agencies or insurers—can extend the window. For example, federal Medicare and Medicaid fraud can be aggressively prosecuted under multiple statutes, and tolling provisions may apply. Consulting our medical fraud and healthcare fraud resources can help clarify these nuances.

Below is a quick overview of common fraud types and their typical federal statutes of limitations:

In fraud cases, the integrity of the evidence and the timing of discovery greatly affect the outcome. Because the statute can bar prosecution or civil relief altogether, it is essential to report and investigate suspected fraud promptly. Proactive steps help ensure justice and avoid legal pitfalls. Engaging an experienced lawyer provides invaluable guidance in navigating these timelines and defending your rights.

The Discovery Rule: When Does the Clock Start Ticking?

Much confusion surrounds the so‑called discovery rule in fraud cases. In criminal federal fraud prosecutions, the statute of limitations generally starts when the crime is complete—not when it is uncovered. Section 3282 sets the five‑year period from the date of the offense, and courts have repeatedly held that the discovery rule does not extend the limitation period in most criminal cases. As a result, even if a fraud remains hidden for years, prosecutors cannot resurrect a stale claim once five years have passed, unless a specific extension applies.

However, the discovery rule does apply in certain civil cases and a few specialized criminal contexts. For example, civil securities fraud actions under the Securities Exchange Act must be filed within two years after the violation is discovered and no more than five years after the violation occurred. Similarly, state‑law claims like Texas felony insurance fraud start the clock when the fraud is or should have been discovered. The discovery rule is intended to protect victims who could not reasonably have known of the fraud, balancing fairness with the need for timely action. But it is not a universal principle. In federal criminal cases, the government cannot wait until discovery to file charges unless Congress has expressly extended the statute.

Several factors can influence when and whether the discovery rule applies:

• Nature of the fraud – Complex schemes may delay detection. In civil suits, courts may allow plaintiffs additional time to discover the fraud, provided they exercise reasonable diligence. For criminal charges, the nature of the scheme does not generally alter the starting point.
• Victim’s diligence – In civil cases, plaintiffs must act promptly once the fraud is discovered. Courts may bar suits if victims sit on their rights. Conversely, prosecutors must file criminal charges within the prescribed period regardless of when victims learn of the fraud.
• Fraud’s complexity – Very intricate frauds may be treated as continuing offenses, meaning the statute runs from the last overt act. Healthcare fraud and ongoing Ponzi schemes can fall into this category. That said, a continuing offense is still limited by the statutory period from the final act.

Understanding these nuances can be challenging. Legal counsel is often essential to interpret how the discovery rule—or lack thereof—applies to a particular case. This guidance can make the difference between pursuing justice successfully and finding a claim barred by time.

Exceptions and Extensions to the Statute of Limitations

Although the statutory periods described above are firm, several exceptions and extensions can modify how long parties have to file criminal charges or civil lawsuits. These exceptions reflect policy choices to ensure accountability in situations where strict time limits would be unjust.

• Fraud affecting financial institutions – As noted, when a fraud scheme targets a bank or financial institution, Congress extended the statute of limitations to ten years. This extension applies to bank fraud and to mail or wire fraud that affects a financial institution. Our mortgage fraud page explains how this longer window reflects the complexity and impact of mortgage and bank fraud schemes.
• Tolling for flight or concealment – If a defendant deliberately flees the country or hides to avoid prosecution, the statute of limitations may be tolled—meaning the clock pauses. For example, if someone accused of mortgage fraud leaves the United States, the ten‑year period stops running until the person returns and can be prosecuted. Tolling also occurs when defendants are already facing charges in another jurisdiction or when the government brings sealed indictments.
• Victim is a minor or mentally incapacitated – Some statutes allow extra time when the victim is a child or lacks capacity. In such cases, the limitations period may not begin until the victim reaches majority or regains capacity. While this exception is more common in state law, it can apply in certain federal civil suits.
• Civil discovery rules – In civil securities fraud suits and other contexts, the statute may be extended based on when the fraud was or should have been discovered. For example, if investors could not have learned of an accounting fraud until a company filed restated financial statements, the limitations period might not begin until those statements were filed. However, an absolute cut‑off still exists (five years under § 1658(b)).

Federal laws also recognize statutory tolling. This mechanism pauses the statute of limitations under specific conditions. Examples include when the accused is a fugitive, when there is ongoing war or national emergency, or when the defendant’s identity is unknown. Tolling provisions are narrowly construed, so parties should not assume they have more time without consulting counsel.

The Statute of Frauds: How It Differs from Statutes of Limitations

Although they sound similar, the statute of frauds and the statute of limitations are distinct legal concepts that serve different purposes. Understanding the difference is essential for anyone entering into contracts or contemplating litigation.

The statute of frauds is a set of laws requiring that certain contracts be in writing to be legally enforceable. Classic examples include contracts for the sale of real estate, agreements that cannot be performed within one year, and promises to pay another person’s debt. The statute of frauds aims to prevent fraudulent claims and misunderstandings by ensuring that significant agreements are memorialized in writing. If a contract falls within the statute of frauds and is not in writing, a court may refuse to enforce it.

By contrast, a statute of limitations sets a time limit for initiating legal proceedings. It governs when a plaintiff must file a lawsuit or when prosecutors must bring charges. The limitations period depends on the nature of the claim and whether state or federal law applies. The focus of a statute of limitations is not to ensure the agreement’s validity but to encourage prompt resolution and preserve reliable evidence. Once the period expires, the claim is typically barred, regardless of its merit. Thus, the statute of frauds concerns contract formation, while the statute of limitations concerns the timing of legal action.

Federal vs. State Statutes of Limitations for Fraud

Federal and state statutes of limitations for fraud can differ significantly, and it is important to recognize which jurisdiction applies to your case.  Federal statutes generally provide uniformity across the United States, whereas state statutes can vary widely and may change frequently.

At the federal level, the baseline five‑year period governs most non‑capital fraud crimes. Extensions apply when financial institutions are involved, and special rules govern civil securities suits. Because federal crimes often cross state lines or involve interstate commerce, Congress has sought to provide clear and consistent deadlines.

In contrast, each state enacts its own statutes of limitations for fraud and related offenses. Some states allow plaintiffs more time to file civil fraud claims or begin the clock at discovery. For example, Texas law provides that the statute of limitations for felony insurance fraud begins when the fraud is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered. Other states may require suits to be filed within a set period regardless of discovery. For defendants and plaintiffs alike, knowing the applicable state law is critical. A claim that is timely under federal law could be barred under state law, or vice versa.

Key differences between federal and state limitations include:

• Duration – State statutes can vary from two to ten years or more, depending on the type of fraud and the jurisdiction. Federal law has a standard five‑year period, with a ten‑year extension for financial‑institution cases.
• Start date – Many states apply the discovery rule, especially in civil cases. Federal criminal cases generally begin at the occurrence of the offense. For example, Texas insurance fraud prosecutions start when the fraud is discovered, whereas federal bank fraud prosecutions start when the offense is complete.
• Applicability – Federal statutes apply to crimes crossing state lines or affecting interstate commerce. State statutes govern local crimes and civil suits brought under state law. When both federal and state charges are possible, prosecutors often decide which statute offers the best chance of conviction.

Navigating these differences requires careful legal guidance. Legal professionals can determine which statute applies, whether federal or state law controls, and when the clock began to run. Knowing the appropriate jurisdictional rules helps prevent missed deadlines and ensures that claims are filed or defended properly.

The Role of the Department of Justice and Federal Agencies

The Department of Justice (DOJ) plays a central role in enforcing federal fraud laws. The DOJ, through its Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney’s Offices, investigates and prosecutes federal fraud crimes. Adherence to the statute of limitations is a critical part of these prosecutions. Prosecutors must file indictments within the applicable time period or risk dismissal.

Several federal agencies collaborate with the DOJ in fraud cases, providing investigative support and specialized expertise:

• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – The FBI investigates many fraud cases, from securities fraud to healthcare fraud. It gathers evidence, interviews witnesses and works with prosecutors. Our blog on lying to the FBI explains why making false statements can itself lead to felony charges and illustrates how the statute of limitations applies.
• Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – The SEC handles civil enforcement of securities laws. It can bring administrative actions and coordinate with the DOJ for criminal prosecutions. The SEC’s investigations often trigger the two‑year discovery period for civil securities fraud suits. Visit our securities fraud page to learn about SEC investigations and the statute of limitations.
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – The IRS pursues tax and financial fraud, working closely with the DOJ’s Tax Division. Cases of tax evasion, money laundering and other financial crimes may involve complex statutes of limitations. Our financial fraud page discusses how evidence review and statutory defenses, including limitations, play a role in these prosecutions.

These agencies enhance the DOJ’s efforts by providing specialized knowledge and resources. Together, they work to uphold federal fraud laws, ensure compliance with statutes of limitations and protect the integrity of financial markets and government programs. Their cooperation is vital in maintaining legal integrity and prosecutorial success.

Recent Legal Developments and Notable Cases

The legal landscape surrounding fraud and statutes of limitations is continually evolving. Congress periodically amends statutes to address emerging threats, and courts interpret and refine how limitation periods apply. Recent developments highlight the dynamic nature of fraud law.

Over the past decade, Congress has strengthened protections for financial institutions by extending the statute of limitations for bank fraud and for mail or wire fraud that affects a financial institution to ten years. This change reflects heightened concern over complex mortgage and bank fraud schemes that may take years to detect. Lawmakers have also expanded whistleblower programs and increased penalties for certain fraud offenses, encouraging earlier reporting and prosecution.

Notable cases illustrate how courts apply and occasionally extend limitations periods:

• Digital‑evidence extensions – In several recent cases, courts have permitted prosecutors to introduce digital evidence discovered years after the offense, provided the indictment was filed within the statutory period. The cases underscore the importance of preserving electronic records and highlight how digital footprints can extend discovery but not the statutory deadline.
• International complexities – Courts have tolled the statute of limitations when defendants fled the country or used offshore accounts to conceal fraud. In these cases, defendants could not benefit from the passage of time while deliberately evading detection. This doctrine aligns with the principles discussed on our mortgage fraud page, which notes that fleeing the country may extend the ten‑year period.
• Discovery rule limits – Courts continue to clarify the limits of the discovery rule. For instance, several decisions have reaffirmed that the rule does not apply to criminal wire fraud or mail fraud cases, even when the scheme is hidden for years. At the same time, courts enforce the two‑year discovery rule and five‑year cutoff in civil securities fraud suits, dismissing cases filed too late.

The evolving landscape of fraud law requires ongoing attention. Legal professionals must stay informed of legislative changes and case law developments. Awareness aids attorneys in crafting effective litigation strategies and helps parties avoid running afoul of statutes of limitations.

Practical Implications: What Happens If the Statute of Limitations Expires?

When the statute of limitations expires, most legal remedies become unavailable. In criminal cases, expiration effectively bars prosecution of the alleged fraudulent act. Courts will dismiss indictments filed after the statutory period, even if strong evidence of guilt exists. For victims, missing the deadline means losing the chance to seek restitution or civil damages. These consequences underscore the importance of understanding and respecting limitation periods.

For plaintiffs and prosecutors, timeliness is critical. Missing the filing deadline usually means a court will refuse to hear the case. Even if a suit is filed only one day late, the defendant can raise the statute of limitations as a complete defense. Courts rarely make exceptions unless a specific tolling provision applies. Therefore, victims of fraud should act quickly to preserve evidence and consult counsel as soon as possible.

Defendants, on the other hand, gain significant protection once the statute expires. They can move to dismiss charges or civil claims on the ground that they are time‑barred. However, defendants should not assume that expiration ends all risk. Prosecutors may argue that a tolling provision applies, or that the fraud involved a financial institution, granting a longer period. In some circumstances, sealed indictments can be filed before the deadline and unsealed later. Accordingly, defendants should seek legal advice and consider the following strategies:

1. Check for tolling provisions – If a defendant fled the country or concealed their identity, the statute may be tolled. Knowing whether tolling applies helps assess risk and plan a defense.
2. Investigate discovery rules – In civil cases, determine whether the discovery rule affects the start of the limitations period. If the plaintiff discovered the fraud more than two years before filing, the claim may still be barred.
3. Seek legal counsel – An attorney can evaluate specific facts and determine whether the statute of limitations has expired or whether exceptions apply. Legal advice is crucial to avoiding surprise prosecutions or forfeiting a valid claim.

Understanding these implications underscores the critical nature of statutes of limitations in fraud cases. Failing to act promptly can forfeit the right to seek justice, while failing to raise a limitations defense can expose defendants to stale claims.

Frequently Asked Questions About Federal Fraud Statutes of Limitations

Because statutes of limitations can be complex, many people have questions about how they apply in real‑world scenarios. Below are answers to some common inquiries.

What is the typical time limit for federal fraud cases? Most federal fraud crimes must be prosecuted within five yearsof when the offense is committed. This period covers standard wire fraud, mail fraud and false statement cases. However, if the scheme affects a financial institution, the statute extends to ten years. Civil securities fraud suits must be filed within two years of discovery and not more than five years after the violation.

Does the statute start when the fraud is discovered? Generally no. In criminal federal fraud cases, the limitations period begins when the offense is complete. The discovery rule applies primarily in civil cases, such as securities fraud or certain state‑law claims (e.g., Texas insurance fraud), but not in most federal criminal cases.

Are there exceptions to the statute of limitations? Yes. Extensions apply when fraud involves a financial institution, allowing prosecution within ten years. Statutory tolling may pause the clock if the defendant flees or conceals their identity. Certain civil actions incorporate discovery‑based rules. Additionally, minors or incapacitated victims may trigger special provisions.

What happens if the statute expires? Once the limitations period passes, criminal charges and civil claims are typically barred. Courts dismiss untimely cases, depriving victims of restitution and shielding defendants from prosecution. Nonetheless, sealed indictments filed before expiration can preserve the government’s ability to prosecute, and tolling can extend the clock under specific conditions. Consulting an attorney is vital to understanding your position.

How can I determine which statute applies? The applicable statute depends on the nature of the fraud, whether the case is criminal or civil, whether state or federal law controls, and whether a financial institution is involved. Reviewing relevant federal statutes and state laws—and seeking legal advice—will help identify the correct limitations period. Our practice pages on financial fraud and securities fraud offer additional guidance.

Conclusion: Navigating Federal Fraud Laws and Statutes of Limitations

Understanding federal fraud laws and statutes of limitations is crucial for anyone facing or considering legal action. The statute of limitations dictates when prosecutors can bring charges and when plaintiffs may file civil suits. For most federal fraud offenses, this period is five years, although the statute extends to ten years for bank‑related crimes and certain mail and wire fraud schemes. Civil securities actions are subject to a two‑year discovery period and a five‑year absolute cutoff. State laws, such as those governing insurance fraud in Texas, may have different rules and discovery‑based triggers.

The statute of limitations balances fairness for victims and defendants while encouraging prompt case resolution. Staying informed about these laws helps safeguard against legal pitfalls. Whether you are bringing a claim, facing prosecution or simply seeking to understand your rights, consult a knowledgeable attorney. An experienced lawyer can clarify which limitations period applies, determine when the clock started, and advise you on the best strategy for your situation. For more information on specific types of fraud, explore our pages on bank fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud, securities fraud, medical fraud and financial fraud. Each page offers tailored insights into the elements of the offense, potential penalties and available defenses.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney–client relationship. For advice about your specific situation, consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.