If a customer or vendor broke a written contract with your business, you can pursue the money you lost because of that breach — but only if you can prove it. Start by saving the contract and every related message, then write down exactly what the breach cost you. A clear written demand often resolves the dispute without a lawsuit, and it creates a record if you do need to sue.
First, preserve the proof. Keep the signed contract, any changes to it, invoices, payment records, emails, and text messages. Do not delete messages or rewrite records after the fact; courts and the other side will look closely at what was actually said and agreed.
Second, document your losses as they happen. Note the amount you were not paid, the extra cost of finding a replacement vendor or customer, and any work you had to redo. Keep receipts, replacement quotes, and a short dated log of what happened and when. Vague estimates are hard to recover; specific records are not.
Third, send a demand in writing. State what the contract required, what was not done, how much you are claiming, and a reasonable deadline to pay or fix the problem. Keep a copy. Many businesses settle at this stage once they see a documented claim.
Watch the deadline. In Ohio, a lawsuit on a written contract must generally be brought within six years after the claim arises, under Ohio Revised Code 2305.06. That period was shortened from eight years to six years effective June 16, 2021. Do not wait until the deadline is near — evidence fades, and older claims are harder to prove.
Practical takeaway: save the contract, track every dollar the breach cost you, and put your demand in writing early.
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This article is general information only and is not legal advice.