What is the initial deadline to serve a notice of claim against a municipality after the claim arises?

• A. 90 days
• B. 30 days
• C. 180 days
• D. 1 year

Answer: (A)

The key rule is that a notice of claim must be served on a municipality within 90 days after the claim arises. This 90-day window is required by General Municipal Law and serves to alert the local government promptly so it can investigate while evidence is fresh. If that deadline passes, the claim is generally barred unless the municipality agrees to a late claim or a court extends the time for good cause. This deadline is specific to claims against municipalities and isn’t the same as the ordinary limitations period for most private-party torts.