Free tool · Private projects in 10 states
Mechanics lien deadline calculator
Pick your state and role, enter the days you actually worked, and see every notice, lien and lawsuit deadline in order, with the statute behind each one.
Your project
Use the days work was actually performed or materials delivered, not invoice dates. Warranty or repair work usually does not extend deadlines.
How the calculator works
Each state sets its own clock. Some count days from your last day of work, some count months, Texas counts to the 15th day of a later month, and California and Arizona can shorten the window when the owner records a notice of completion. The calculator applies your state’s statute to your dates and lists every step in date order, from the first notice to the last day to sue.
The full rules for all 10 states, with a comparison table, are in our mechanics lien deadline guide.
Questions
When does the lien deadline start counting?
In most states it counts from the last day you actually furnished labor or materials, or from completion of the whole project. It does not count from your invoice date, which is the most common mistake.
Does warranty or repair work extend my deadline?
Usually not. Most states, including Florida by statute, do not let corrective or warranty work restart the clock.
What if a deadline falls on a weekend or holiday?
Some states move it to the next business day and some don’t. Don’t rely on an extension: file before the date shown.
Which states does the calculator cover?
Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Washington. More states are added over time.
Is this legal advice?
No. It shows the deadlines in each state’s statute with the citation. Contract terms, public projects, bonds and retainage can change the rules, so check with a construction attorney for your situation.
This calculator gives information, not legal advice. It covers private projects only; public projects use bond claims with different deadlines. Retainage, contract terms and recorded notices can change your dates. Confirm with the statute or a construction attorney before relying on a date.