Bankruptcy Exemption Laws: 50-State Survey
Individuals filing for bankruptcy may be able to protect certain assets from liquidation under Chapter 7 or exempt them from payment plan calculations under Chapter 13 by using bankruptcy exemptions. All states offer their own bankruptcy exemption systems, but some allow filers to choose to use federal bankruptcy exemptions instead. Filers eligible to use federal nonbankruptcy exemptions may pair these with state bankruptcy exemptions. Otherwise, filers cannot mix and match state and federal bankruptcy exemptions.
Bankruptcy exemptions are typically separated by category. For instance, most states offer a homestead exemption under which filers may exempt a certain amount of their home equity and a motor vehicle exemption that works in the same fashion. This means that a Chapter 7 filer whose vehicle is worth less than the applicable motor vehicle exemption will be able to protect their vehicle from liquidation. Some states even offer a wildcard exemption under which filers can exempt virtually any type of property, although many states exclude types of property like real estate or cash from this exemption. States also commonly exempt a certain value of household goods, jewelry, and tools of the trade.
Exemptions are subject to some limitations. In some states, filers must affirmatively claim certain exemptions, such as the homestead exemption, while others are automatic. Additionally, a federal law limits state homestead exemptions to $189,050 (which changes every few years) for a filer who has owned their home for less than 1,215 days. A filer may file for bankruptcy in their state after living there for 180 days, but they must use the exemption system of the state in which they have lived for the last two years or, if they have not lived in the same state for the last two years, for the majority of the time during the 180 days before the last two years. However, federal law may also expand exemptions. For example, federal law protects ERISA-qualified retirement accounts, including 401(k)s and IRAs and Roth IRAs up to $1,512,350 per person (which changes every few years), whether a filer uses the federal or state exemption system.
This survey is meant as a basic reference and does not cover every exemption nor every nuance to every exemption in each state. States often update the value of their bankruptcy exemptions every few years. The values indicated below are current as of 2022. A person seriously contemplating bankruptcy should consult a lawyer experienced in bankruptcy in their state.
Click on a state below to learn more about the bankruptcy exemptions available in that state.
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- Washington, D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Alabama
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Code of Alabama Section 6-10-2) |
$16,450 | Alabama’s homestead exemption covers up to 160 acres of land. |
| Motor vehicle exemption | - | Alabama has no motor vehicle exemption, except for that under the tools of the trade exemption. Filers may use Alabama’s wildcard exemption to cover other vehicles. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 6-10-6) |
$8,225 | Alabama’s wildcard exemption cannot be used to protect real estate, wages, salary, or other compensation. |
|
Household goods exemption (§§ 6-10-6, 6-10-126) |
No limit | Alabama’s wildcard exemption cannot be used to protect real estate, wages, salary, or other compensation. |
|
Household goods exemption (§§ 6-10-6, 6-10-126) |
No limit | Alabama’s household goods exemption covers all necessary clothing, family portraits or pictures, and all books. It also covers cooking utensils, stoves, a table and tableware, and beds and bedding. Filers may use Alabama’s wildcard exemption to cover other household goods. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Alabama has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use Alabama’s wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 6-10-126) |
No limit | Alabama’s tools of the trade exemption covers both the tools and a vehicle necessary for the filer’s business. Alabama additionally exempts all military uniforms, arms, and equipment. |
Alabama requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Alabama filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Alabama also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Alabama bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; a seat in a place of worship; most retirement and pension funds; some life insurance and annuity proceeds; qualified trust benefits; earned income tax credits; some disability benefits; fraternal benefit society benefits; Social Security; crime victims’ compensation; public assistance; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 75% of wages or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Alaska
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Alaska Statutes Section 09.38.010, Alaska Administrative Code Title 8, Section 95.030) |
$72,900 | Spouses cannot double Alaska’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (Alaska Stat. § 9.38.020, Alaska Admin. Code tit. 8, 95.030) |
$4,050 | Alaska’s motor vehicle exemption only applies if the vehicle’s total value is not more than $27,000. |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Alaska’s household goods exemption covers household goods and apparel reasonably necessary for one household, books, musical instruments, family portraits, and sentimental heirlooms. Alaska also exempts pets up to $1,350. |
|
Jewelry exemption (Alaska Stat. § 9.38.020, Alaska Admin. Code tit. 8, 95.030) |
$1,350 | – |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (Alaska Stat. § 9.38.020, Alaska Admin. Code tit. 8, 95.030) |
$3,780 | – |
Alaska allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Alaska also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Alaska bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; necessary health aids; apartment and condominium owners’ association deposits; unmatured life insurance policies and annuity contracts up to $500,500; some life insurance proceeds; most pension and retirement funds; tuition credits or savings under higher education savings accounts or advance college tuition contracts; medical, surgical, or hospital care benefits; liquor licenses; specific partnership property; commercial fishing privileges; fraternal benefit society benefits; lost, damaged, or destroyed exempt property; medical savings accounts; most alimony and child support; personal injury or wrongful death awards; crime victims’ reparation awards; public assistance; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and weekly net earnings up to $473 or cash and liquid assets up to $1,890 per month (these amounts may be increased if the filer received payments for an injury or disability).
Arizona
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Arizona Revised Statutes Section 33-1101) |
$250,000 | Spouses cannot double Arizona’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 33-1125) |
$6,000 (or $12,000 under certain circumstances) | Arizona’s motor vehicle exemption increases to $12,000 if the filer or filer’s dependent has a physical disability. |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Arizona has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§§ 33-1123, 33-1125, 33-1127) |
$6,000 / $500 / $400 / $250 / $2,000 | Arizona’s household goods exemption covers furniture and appliances, including electronic devices, up to $6,000. It also covers clothing up to $500; musical instruments up to $400; books up to $250; a typewriter, computer, bicycle, sewing machine, family bible, or burial lot up to $2,000; all pets; and all school books. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 33-1125) |
$2,000 / $250 | Arizona’s jewelry exemption covers wedding and engagement rings up to $2,000 and a watch up to $250. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 33-1130) |
$5,000 / $2,500 | Arizona’s tools of the trade exemption covers business or professional tools, equipment, instruments, and books up to $5,000 and farm machinery, utensils, husbandry implements, feed, seed, grain, and animals up to $2,500 if the filer’s primary income is derived from farming. Arizona additionally exempts all arms, uniforms, and accoutrements required to be kept by law. |
Arizona allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Arizona also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Arizona bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; prepaid rent and security deposits up to $2,000 if the filer does not use the homestead exemption; firearms up to $2,000; horses, milk cows, and poultry up to $1,000; insurance proceeds from or claims for the destruction of or damage to exempt property; most college savings plan funds; the cash surrender value of some life insurance policies; some annuity contracts; fraternal benefit society benefits; most retirement and pension funds; one bank account up to $300; alimony, maintenance, and child support; money payable to a surviving spouse or child on the life of a deceased spouse, parent, or legal guardian up to $20,000; health, accident, or disability benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Arkansas
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Arkansas Code Sections 16-66-210, 16-66-218) |
$800 (increases under certain circumstances) | Arkansas’ homestead exemption increases to $1,250 for homesteads owned by a married filer. Arkansas filers may instead choose to exempt up to 160 rural acres or one urban acre up to $2,500 in value, or 80 rural acres or one quarter of an urban acre of an unlimited value. Arkansas’ homestead exemption may alternatively be used to cover the filer or a dependent’s burial plot. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 16-66-218) |
$1,200 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 16-66-218) |
$200 (or $500 under certain circumstances) | Arkansas’ wildcard exemption increases to $500 for filers who are married or heads of a family. Arkansas’ wildcard exemption cannot be used to exempt real property. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 16-66-218) |
No limit | Arkansas exempts clothing. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§§ 16-66-218, 16-66-219) |
No limit | Arkansas’ jewelry exemption covers wedding rings, including diamonds mounted thereon up to one half of a carat. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 16-66-218) |
$750 | – |
Arkansas allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Arkansas also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Arkansas bankruptcy exemptions include some retirement and pension funds; some insurance benefits; fraternal benefit society benefits; life, health, accident, or disability insurance proceeds; crime victims’ compensation; public assistance; unemployment benefits; workers’ compensation; and 60 days’ wages of at least $25 per week.
California
| Type of Exemption | System 1 / System 2 | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (California Civil Procedure Code Sections 704.730, 703.140) |
$600,000 / $31,950 | Spouses cannot double California’s homestead exemption. California’s System 2 homestead exemption may alternatively be used to cover a burial plot. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§§ 704.010, 703.140) |
$3,625 / $6,375 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 703.140) |
– / $1,700 | California filers using System 2 may exempt any property up to $1,700, plus any unused homestead exemption value. California System 1 has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§§ 704.020, 703.140) |
No limit / No limit | California’s household goods exemption covers an unlimited amount of necessary household goods, including furnishings, appliances, provisions, clothing, and personal effects under both systems, but System 2 limits the value of each item to $800 and also includes books, animals, crops, and musical instruments. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§§ 704.040, 703.140) |
$9,525 / $1,900 | California’s System 1 jewelry exemption covers jewelry, heirlooms, and art, while System 2 covers jewelry only. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§§ 704.060, 703.140) |
$9,700 (or $19,050 under certain circumstances) / $9,525 | California’s System 1 tools of the trade exemption increases to $19,050 if used by both spouses in the same occupation. |
California requires bankruptcy filers to use one of the state’s two bankruptcy exemption systems and does not allow filers to mix exemptions from each set. While California filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. California does not typically allow jointly filing spouses to double their bankruptcy exemptions.
In addition to the exemptions described above, California System 1 bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; necessary health aids; materials that will be used to repair or improve a home up to $3,825; most retirement and pension funds; student financial aid; relocation benefits; FEMA benefits; the loan value of unmatured life insurance policies up to $15,250; benefits from matured life insurance policies to the extent reasonably necessary for support; disability or health insurance benefits; business partnership property; personal injury and wrongful death awards to the extent necessary for support; bank accounts up to $1,826 or to the extent necessary for support; Social Security deposits (limited to $3,825 for a single payee or $5,725 for spouse payees if funds are commingled); public benefit deposits up to $1,900 for a single payee or $2,825 for spouse payees; public assistance; unemployment and disability benefits; union benefits due to labor disputes; workers’ compensation; and 75% of wages paid within 30 days prior to filing.
California System 2 bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; most retirement and pension funds; most unmatured life insurance contracts; the dividends, interest, or loan value of unmatured life insurance contracts owned by the filer and insuring the filer or an individual of whom the filer is a dependent up to $17,075; some life insurance proceeds to the extent reasonably necessary for support; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; personal injury awards up to $31,950; loss of future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; alimony and child support to the extent necessary for support; crime victims’ reparation awards; Social Security benefits; veterans’ benefits; public assistance; and unemployment and disability benefits.
Colorado
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Colorado Revised Statutes Sections 38-41-201 38-41-201.6, 38-41-202, 38-41-207, 38-41-209) |
$75,000 (or $105,000 under certain circumstances) | Colorado’s homestead exemption increases to $105,000 when homeowners, spouses, or dependents have a disability or are at least 60 years old. Spouses cannot double Colorado’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 13-54-102) |
$7,500 (or $12,500 under certain circumstances) | Colorado’s motor vehicle exemption covers up to two motor vehicles or bicycles. It increases to $12,500 when filers, spouses, or dependents are elderly or have a disability. |
| Wildcard exemption | Colorado has no wildcard exemption. | |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 13-54-102) |
$3,000 / $2,000 / $2,000 / $600 | Colorado’s household goods exemption covers household goods up to $3,000 and books and family pictures up to $2,000. Colorado also exempts clothing up to $2,000 and provisions and fuel up to $600. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 13-54-102) |
$2,500 | – |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 13-54-102) |
$30,000 / $10,000 / $3,000 (or $50,000 under certain circumstances) | Colorado’s tools of the trade exemption covers trade implements used in the filer’s primary occupation up to $30,000, trade implements used in another occupation up to $10,000, and a professional library up to $3,000. In the case of filers engaged primarily in agriculture, Colorado’s tools of the trade exemption covers livestock, animals, crops, equipment, and seed up to $50,000. |
Colorado requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Colorado filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Colorado also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Colorado bankruptcy exemptions include burial property; prescribed health aids; many retirement and pension benefits; spousal and child support; fraternal benefit society benefits; some life insurance value and benefits; compensation for damaged exempt property; specific partnership property; most personal injury awards; crime victims’ compensation; veterans’ benefits; public assistance; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 30 times the federal or state minimum wage.
Connecticut
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Connecticut General Statutes Section 52-352b) |
$75,000 (or $125,000 under certain circumstances) | Connecticut’s homestead exemption increases to $125,000 against creditors collecting a money judgment arising out of hospital services. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 52-352b) |
$3,500 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 52-352b) |
$1,000 | – |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 52-352b) |
No limit | Connecticut’s household goods exemption covers all necessary furniture, appliances, clothing, bedding, and food. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 52-352b) |
No limit | Connecticut’s jewelry exemption covers wedding and engagement rings. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§§ 52-352b, 52-352d) |
No limit | Connecticut’s tools of the trade exemption covers necessary tools, books, farm animals, and feed. It also covers farm partnership animals and livestock reasonably required to operate a farm at which at least 50% of the partners are members of the same family. Connecticut additionally exempts all arms, uniforms, musical instruments, and military equipment owned by military members. |
Connecticut allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Connecticut also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Connecticut bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; necessary health aids; insurance proceeds for damaged exempt property; child support; alimony or support to the extent that wages are exempt; most retirement and pension benefits; residential and utility security deposits for one residence; spendthrift trust funds to the extent necessary for support; irrevocable transfers to a licensed debt adjuster; the dividends, interest, or loan value of unmatured life insurance contracts owned by the filer and insuring the filer or an individual of whom the filer is a dependent up to $4,000; health and disability insurance payments; crime victims’ reparations awards; Social Security benefits; public assistance; veterans’ benefits; unemployment benefits; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 40 times the federal minimum wage.
Delaware
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Delaware Code Title 10, Section 4914) |
$125,000 | Spouses cannot double Delaware’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 4914) |
$15,000 | A vehicle must be necessary for work to be covered under Delaware’s motor vehicle exemption. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 4914) |
$25,000 / $500 | Delaware’s wildcard exemption cannot be used to increase the homestead exemption, but it may be used to cover other real property as well as personal property. Delaware’s wildcard exemption increases by $500 in personal property for heads of families. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 4902) |
No limit | Delaware’s household goods exemption covers books, family pictures, sewing machines, hired or leased pianos and organs, and clothing. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Delaware has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use Delaware’s wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 4914) |
$15,000 | Delaware’s tools of the trade exemption may be lower in certain counties. |
Delaware requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Delaware filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Delaware also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Delaware bankruptcy exemptions include burial lots; most life insurance and annuity value or payments; many health and disability proceeds supplemental to life insurance or annuity contracts; most retirement and pension funds; most Qualified Tuition Program and ABLE accounts and proceeds; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and 85% of wages.
Florida
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Florida Statutes Sections 222.01, 222.02, Florida Constitution Article X, Section 4) |
No limit | Florida’s homestead exemption covers an unlimited amount of equity in a primary residence, but this exemption is limited to one half of an acre in a city or town and 160 acres elsewhere. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (Fla. Stat. § 222.25) |
$1,000 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (Fla. Stat. § 222.25, Fla. Const. Art. X, § 4) |
$1,000 (or $4,000 under certain circumstances) | Florida’s wildcard exemption increases to $4,000 when a filer does not use the homestead exemption. |
| Household goods exemption | – | Florida has no household goods exemption, but filers may use Florida’s wildcard exemption to cover household goods. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Florida has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use Florida’s wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
| Tools of the trade exemption | – | Florida has no tools of the trade exemption, but filers may use Florida’s wildcard exemption to cover tools of the trade. |
Florida requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Florida filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Florida also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Florida bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; qualified tuition program funds; Coverdell education savings accounts; health and medical savings accounts; hurricane savings accounts up to twice the deductible; Preneed Funeral Contract Consumer Protection Trust Fund accounts; particular partnership property; tax credits and refunds; most retirement and pension funds; some federal pension payments; most life insurance and annuity proceeds; the cash surrender value of life insurance policies or proceeds of annuity contracts issued upon citizens or residents of the state; fraternal benefit society benefits; awards for injuries or deaths that occurred while working in a hazardous occupation; alimony and child support to the extent reasonably necessary for support; most crime victims’ compensation; veterans’ benefits; disability or illness benefits; Social Security benefits; public assistance; workers’ compensation; unemployment compensation; and $750 of disposable earnings of the head of a family per week or the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Georgia
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Georgia Code Section 44-13-100) |
$21,500 (or $43,000 under certain circumstances) | Georgia’s homestead exemption increases to $43,000 for homesteads owned by a married filer. Georgia’s homestead exemption may alternatively be used to cover the filer or a dependent’s burial plot. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 44-13-100) |
$5,000 | Georgia filers may exempt any personal property up to $1,200, plus up to $10,000 of any unused homestead exemption value. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 44-13-100) |
$5,000 | Georgia’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, books, animals, crops, and musical instruments up to $300 per item. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 44-13-100) |
$500 | – |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 44-13-100) |
$1,500 | – |
Georgia requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Georgia filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Georgia also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Georgia bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; most retirement and pension funds; health and medical savings accounts; most unmatured life insurance contracts; some unmatured life insurance dividends or value; life insurance payments to the extent reasonably necessary for support; alimony, support, or maintenance to the extent reasonably necessary for support; fraternal benefit society benefits; crime victims’ reparation awards; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; personal injury awards up to $10,000; loss of future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; Social Security benefits; veterans’ benefits; disability, illness, or unemployment benefits; public assistance; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 40 times the federal minimum wage.
Hawaii
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Hawaii Revised Statutes Sections 651-91, 651-92, 651-96) |
$20,000 (or $30,000 under certain circumstances) | Hawaii’s homestead exemption is limited to one acre. It increases to $30,000 when the filer is the head of a family or at least 65 years old. Spouses cannot double Hawaii’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 651-121) |
$2,575 | – |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Hawaii has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 651-121) |
No limit | Hawaii’s household goods exemption covers all reasonably necessary furnishings, appliances, books, and clothing. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 651-121) |
$1,000 | – |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 651-121) |
No limit | Hawaii’s tools of the trade exemption covers tools, implements, uniforms, vehicles, and other items that are ordinarily and reasonably necessary to the filer’s business or profession. |
Hawaii allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Hawaii also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Hawaii bankruptcy exemptions include burial property up to 250 square feet with all improvements thereon; insurance and sale proceeds from exempt property in the last six months; accident or sickness insurance proceeds; life insurance proceeds; fraternal benefit society benefits; most retirement and pension funds; Social Security benefits; public benefits; crime victims’ compensation; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and wages due in the last 31 days.
Idaho
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Idaho Code Sections 55, 1001, 55-1002, 55-1003, 55-1008, 55-1113) |
$175,000 | Spouses cannot double Idaho’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 11-605) |
$10,000 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 11-605) |
$1,500 | – |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 11-605) |
$7,500 | Idaho’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, animals, books, musical instruments, family portraits, and sentimental heirlooms up to $1,000 per item. Idaho additionally exempts a 12-month supply of provisions. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 11-605) |
$1,000 | – |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 11-605) |
$10,000 | Idaho additionally exempts all arms, uniforms, and accoutrements required for peace officers, members of the national guard, and military members. |
Idaho requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Idaho filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Idaho also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Idaho bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; necessary health aids; public property; water rights for irrigation of cultivated lands up to 160 inches; crops grown on up to 50 acres up to $5,000; one firearm up to $1,500; alimony, support, or maintenance to the extent necessary for support; most life insurance contracts; medical, surgical, and hospital care benefits; medical savings accounts; personal injury and wrongful death awards to the extent necessary for support; insurance benefits and proceeds to the extent reasonably necessary for support; disability or illness benefits to the extent necessary for support; most retirement and pension funds; Social Security benefits; veterans’ benefits; public assistance; unemployment compensation; and disposable earnings up to $2,500 per year.
Illinois
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (735 Illinois Compiled Statutes Sections 5/12-901, 902, 906) |
$15,000 | – |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 5/12-1001) |
$2,400 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 5/12-1001) |
$4,000 | – |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 5/12-1001) |
No limit | Illinois’ household goods exemption covers necessary clothing, a bible, school books, and family pictures. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Illinois has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use Illinois’ wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 5/12-1001) |
$1,500 | Illinois additionally exempts all National Guard uniforms, arms, and equipment. |
Illinois requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Illinois filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Illinois also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Illinois bankruptcy exemptions include prepaid funeral and burial funds; prescribed health aids; personal injury awards up to $15,000; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; most Illinois College Savings Pool and ABLE account funds; alimony, support, or maintenance to the extent necessary for support; most retirement and pension funds; most life insurance and annuity contract proceeds and value; fraternal benefit society benefits; specific partnership property; liquor permits; crime victims’ reparations awards; Social Security benefits; veterans’ benefits; public assistance; disability, illness, or unemployment benefits; workers’ compensation benefits; and the greater of 85% of gross earnings or 45 times the federal minimum wage.
Indiana
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Indiana Code Section 34-55-10-2) |
$19,300 | Indiana’s homestead exemption may also cover an interest in real estate held as a tenant by the entirety if only one spouse files for bankruptcy. |
| Motor vehicle exemption | — | Indiana has no motor vehicle exemption, but filers may use Indiana’s wildcard exemption to cover a vehicle. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 34-55-10-2) |
$10,250 / $400 | Indiana’s wildcard exemption covers any non-homestead real estate or tangible property up to $10,250. It also covers intangible property up to $400. |
| Household goods exemption | – | Indiana has no household goods exemption, but filers may use Indiana’s wildcard exemption to cover these items. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Indiana has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use Indiana’s wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 10-16-10-1) |
No limit | Indiana’s tools of the trade exemption covers military arms, uniforms, and equipment. |
Indiana requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Indiana filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Indiana also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Indiana bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; medical care and health savings accounts; most retirement and pension funds; many qualified tuition programs and educational savings accounts; earned income tax credits for exempt property; spendthrift trusts; surviving spouse allowances; fraternal benefit society benefits; many life insurance policies and proceeds; specific partnership property; unemployment compensation benefits; workers’ compensation benefits; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Iowa
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Iowa Code Sections 561.2, 561.16, 499A.18) |
No limit | Iowa’s homestead exemption covers an unlimited amount of equity in a primary residence, but this exemption is limited to one half of an acre in a city or town and 40 acres elsewhere. Households cannot exempt more than one property. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 627.6) |
$7,000 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 627.6) |
$1,000 | Iowa’s wildcard exemption covers any personal property, including cash, but not including real estate. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 627.6) |
$7,000 / $1,000 | Iowa’s household goods exemption covers household furnishings and appliances, clothing, and musical instruments up to $7,000. Iowa also exempts books, pictures, and paintings up to $1,000. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 627.6) |
$2,000 | Iowa’s jewelry exemption also covers wedding and engagement rings of any value unless they were purchased after marriage and within two years of filing for bankruptcy, in which case the exemption is capped at $7,000, minus the amount claimed for other jewelry. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 627.6) |
$10,000 | – |
Iowa requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Iowa filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Iowa also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Iowa bankruptcy exemptions include burial property up to one acre; prescribed health aids; security deposits and prepaid rent; alimony, support, or separate maintenance to the extent necessary for support; liquor licenses; fraternal benefit society benefits; certain insurance benefits; most retirement and pension funds; one shotgun and either a musket or a rifle; accrued wages and tax refunds up to $1,000; public assistance, including earned income and child tax credits; unemployment compensation; veterans’ benefits; workers’ compensation benefits; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 40 times the federal minimum wage.
Kansas
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Kansas Statutes Section 60-2301) |
No limit | Kansas’ homestead exemption covers an unlimited amount of equity in a primary residence, but this exemption is limited to one acre in a city or town and 160 acres of farmland. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 60-2304) |
$20,000 (or no limit under certain circumstances) | Kansas’ motor vehicle exemption covers vehicles used regularly. If the vehicle has been modified to assist with a disability, there is no monetary limit to the exemption. |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Kansas has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 60-2304) |
No limit | Kansas’ household goods exemption covers household furnishings, equipment, and supplies, including clothing, to the extent reasonably necessary to last one year. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 60-2304) |
$1,000 | – |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 60-2304) |
$7,500 | – |
Kansas requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Kansas filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Kansas also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Kansas bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; postsecondary education savings accounts; alimony, support, or maintenance to the extent reasonably necessary for support; cemetery merchandise trusts and prearranged funeral agreements; most pension and retirement funds; life insurance proceeds if bankruptcy occurs more than one year after the policy took effect; fraternal benefit society benefits; earned income tax credits; crime victims’ compensation awards; Social Security benefits; unemployment compensation; public assistance; veterans’ benefits; disability benefits; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Kentucky
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Kentucky Revised Statutes Sections 427.060, 427.090) |
$5,000 | Kentucky’s homestead exemption may alternatively be used to cover the filer or a dependent’s burial plot. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 427.010) |
$2,500 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 427.160) |
$1,000 | – |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 427.010) |
$3,000 | Kentucky’s household goods exemption includes furnishings, jewelry, and clothing. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Jewelry is included in Kentucky’s household goods exemption. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§§ 427.010, 427.030, 427.040) |
$300 / $3,000 / $1,000 / $2,500 | Kentucky’s tools of the trade exemption covers any trade or professional tools up to $300. It also covers farming tools, equipment, and livestock up to $3,000; a minister, attorney, physician, surgeon, chiropractor, veterinarian, or dentist’s equipment up to $1,000; and the motor vehicle of one of the above professionals or a mechanic up to $2,500. |
Kentucky allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Kentucky also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Kentucky bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; alimony, support, or maintenance to the extent reasonably necessary for support; wrongful death awards for dependents; personal injury awards up to $7,500; loss of future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; most retirement and pension funds; most life insurance proceeds; crime victims’ reparation awards; public assistance; unemployment compensation; and workers’ compensation.
Louisiana
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Louisiana Revised Statutes Section 20:1) |
$35,000 | Louisiana’s homestead exemption is limited to five acres in a city or town and 200 acres elsewhere. Louisiana’s homestead exemption may be unlimited when obligations directly arise from a catastrophic or terminal illness or injury. Spouses cannot double Louisiana’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 13:3881) |
$7,500 | Louisiana’s motor vehicle exemption may also cover an additional vehicle modified to assist with a disability up to $7,500. |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Louisiana has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 13:3881) |
No limit | Louisiana’s household goods exemption includes furnishings, appliances, clothing, family portraits, military accoutrements, musical instruments, poultry, fowl, one cow, and pets. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 13:3881) |
$5,000 | Louisiana’s jewelry exemption covers wedding and engagement rings. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 13:3881) |
No limit | Louisiana’s tools of the trade exemption covers tools, instruments, books, and one utility trailer. |
Louisiana requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Louisiana filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Louisiana also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Louisiana bankruptcy exemptions include some life insurance benefits; accident and health insurance proceeds; fraternal benefit society benefits; earned income and child tax credits; firearms up to $2,500; cemetery spaces; spendthrift trusts; most retirement benefits and pensions; crime victims’ compensation; public assistance; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Maine
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Section 4422) |
$80,000 (or $160,000 under certain circumstances) | Maine’s homestead exemption increases to $160,000 when minor dependents reside in the home, or the filer or a dependent is 60 or older or has a disability that makes them unable to maintain gainful employment. Maine’s homestead exemption may be used to cover the filer or a dependent’s burial plot. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 4422) |
$10,000 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 4422) |
$500 / $10,500 | Maine filers may exempt any personal property up to $500 and use up to $10,500 of any unused homestead exemption value to cover household goods, jewelry, tools of the trade, and personal injury awards. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 4422) |
No limit | Maine’s household goods exemption includes furnishings, appliances, clothing, books, animals, crops, and musical instruments up to $500 per item. It also covers furnaces, stoves, fuel, and food. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 4422) |
$4,000 / $1,000 | Maine’s jewelry exemption covers wedding or engagement rings up to $4,000, in addition to $1,000 of other jewelry. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 4422) |
$9,500 | – |
Maine requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Maine filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Maine also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Maine bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; most life insurance contracts and proceeds; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; personal injury awards up to $20,000; loss of future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; earned income and child tax credits; alimony, support, or maintenance to the extent reasonably necessary for support; most retirement funds; crime victims’ reparations awards; Social Security benefits; public assistance; veterans’ benefits; disability benefits; unemployment compensation; and up to $3,000 in cash or bank accounts.
Maryland
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Maryland Courts and Judicial Proceedings Code, Section 11-504) |
$25,150 | – |
| Motor vehicle exemption | – | Maryland has no motor vehicle exemption, but filers may use Maryland’s wildcard exemption to cover a vehicle. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 11-504) |
$6,000 / $5,000 | Maryland’s wildcard exemption covers cash or property up to $6,000 and personal property up to $5,000. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 11-504) |
$1,000 | Maryland’s household goods exemption includes furnishings, appliances, clothing, pets, and books. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Maryland has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use Maryland’s wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 11-504) |
$5,000 | – |
Maryland requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Maryland filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Maryland also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Maryland bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; prescribed health aids; disability and health benefits; court awards, arbitration awards, and settlements for sickness, accident, injury, or death; fraternal benefit society benefits; life insurance or annuity contract proceeds for a dependent, child, or spouse; most retirement benefits; child support; alimony equal to the earnings exemption; medical benefits deducted from wages; public assistance; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or $145 per week (or 30 times the federal minimum wage for residents of some counties).
Massachusetts
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 188, Sections 1-14) |
$125,000 (or $500,000 under certain circumstances) | Massachusetts’ homestead exemption increases to $500,000 if a Declaration of Homestead is filed with the Registry of Deeds, or when the filer is over 62 or has a disability. Spouses cannot typically double Massachusetts’ homestead exemption unless they are elderly or have a disability. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (Ch. 235, § 34) |
$7,500 (or $15,000 under certain circumstances) | Massachusetts’ motor vehicle exemption increases to $15,000 if the vehicle is owned or substantially used by a person over 60 or with a disability. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 34) |
$1,000 / $5,000 | Massachusetts filers may exempt any personal property up to $1,000, plus up to $5,000 of any unused motor vehicle, tools of the trade, and household furniture exemption value. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 34) |
$15,000 / $500 / $600 / $500 / $300 | Massachusetts’ household goods exemption covers necessary household furniture up to $15,000, as well as reasonably necessary utilities up to $500 per month, provisions up to $600, books up to $500, and one sewing machine up to $300. It also covers an unlimited amount of necessary clothing, beds and bedding, one heating unit, one stove, one refrigerator, one freezer, and one hot water heater. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 34) |
$1,225 | – |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 34) |
$5,000 / $1,500 | Massachusetts exempts tools of the trade up to $5,000, boats and tackle of a fisherman up to $1,500, and military uniforms, arms, and accoutrements required to be kept by law. |
Massachusetts allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Massachusetts also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Massachusetts bankruptcy exemptions include cemetery spaces and burial plots; displacement benefits; fraternal benefit society benefits; rent up to $2,500 per month; disability insurance benefits up to $400 per week; insurance policies, healthcare provider self-insurance funds, and annuity contracts payable to a spouse or dependent; specific partnership property; most pension and retirement benefits; two cows, 12 sheep, two swine, and four tons of hay; shares in cooperative associations up to $100; public assistance; veterans’ benefits; unemployment compensation; most workers’ compensation; $2,500 in cash or bank accounts; and the greater of 85% of gross wages or 50 times the federal or state minimum wage.
Michigan
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Michigan Compiled Laws Section 600.5451) |
$40,475 (or $60,725 under certain circumstances) | Michigan’s homestead exemption increases to $60,725 when homeowners or dependents are at least 65 years old or have a disability. It is limited to one lot or parcel in a city or village or 40 acres elsewhere. Spouses cannot double Michigan’s homestead exemption. Michigan’s homestead exemption may also cover an interest in real estate held as a tenant by the entirety if only one spouse holds the debt. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 600.5451) |
$3,725 | – |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Michigan has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 600.5451) |
$4,050 / $700 / $700 | Michigan’s household goods exemption covers furniture, utensils, books, appliances, and jewelry up to $625 per item. It also covers an unlimited amount of family pictures and clothing (excluding furs), pets up to $700, computers up to $700, and a six-month supply of provisions and fuel. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Jewelry is included in Michigan’s household goods exemption. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 600.5451) |
$2,700 / $2,700 | Michigan’s tools of the trade exemption covers professional and trade items up to $2,700 and farm animals, feed, and crops up to $2,700. Michigan additionally exempts arms and accoutrements required to be kept by law. |
Michigan allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Michigan also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Michigan bankruptcy exemptions include burial property; prescribed health aids; most retirement and pension funds; fraternal benefit society benefits; most insurance benefits; crime victims’ compensation; veterans’ benefits; public benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation benefits; and 60% of wages (not less than $15 per week) if the filer has a family, plus $2 per week for each dependent, or 40% of wages (not less than $10 per week) if the filer does not have a family.
Minnesota
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Minnesota Statutes Sections 510.01, 510.02, 550.37) |
$450,000 (or $1,125,000 under certain circumstances) | Minnesota’s homestead exemption is limited to 160 acres and increases to $1,125,000 if the land is used primarily for agriculture. Spouses cannot double Minnesota’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 550.37) |
$5,000 (or $50,000 under certain circumstances) | Minnesota’s motor vehicle exemption increases to $50,000 when the vehicle has been modified at a cost of at least $3,750 to accommodate a person with a disability. |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Minnesota has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 550.37) |
$11,250 | Minnesota’s household goods exemption covers furniture, appliances, food, utensils, clothing, and one watch. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 550.37) |
$3,062.50 | Minnesota’s jewelry exemption covers wedding or engagement rings. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 550.37) |
$12,500 / $13,000 | Minnesota’s tools of the trade exemption covers professional and trade items up to $12,500 and farm machines up to $13,000 with a combined limit of $13,000. Minnesota additionally exempts all school books. |
Minnesota allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Minnesota also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Minnesota bankruptcy exemptions include burial property; employee benefits, including retirement accounts, up to $75,000; insurance proceeds from the death of a spouse or parent up to $50,000, with an additional $12,500 for each dependent; insurance proceeds from the loss of or damage to exempt property; personal injury or wrongful death awards; insurance policies up to $10,000; veterans’ benefits; public assistance; unemployment benefits; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 40 times the federal or state minimum wage.
Mississippi
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Mississippi Code Sections 85-3-1, 85-3-21) |
$75,000 / $30,000 | Mississippi’s homestead exemption is limited to 160 acres. Filers who are over 60 and married or widowed may claim Mississippi’s homestead exemption for a former residence. Spouses can only double Mississippi’s homestead exemption if they live in separate residences. Mississippi’s homestead exemption also covers mobile or manufactured homes up to $30,000 (but this cannot be combined with the personal or household property exemption). |
| Motor vehicle exemption | – | Motor vehicles are included in Mississippi’s household goods exemption. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 85-3-1) |
$50,000 | Mississippi’s wildcard exemption is limited to filers who are at least 70 years old. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 85-3-1) |
$10,000 | Mississippi’s household goods exemption includes furniture, appliances, clothing, one television, one radio, one firearm, wedding rings, tools of the trade, motor vehicles, cash, prescribed health aids, crops, and pets. It also covers any tangible personal property worth less than $200. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Wedding rings are included in Mississippi’s household goods exemption. |
| Tools of the trade exemption | – | Tools of the trade are included in Mississippi’s household goods exemption. |
Mississippi requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Mississippi filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Mississippi also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Mississippi bankruptcy exemptions include most life insurance proceeds; disability benefits; homeowners’ insurance proceeds up to $75,000; fraternal benefit society benefits; personal injury awards up to $10,000; sale or insurance proceeds for exempt property; earned income credits and federal or state tax refunds up to $5,000; tax-exempt education savings plans; health savings accounts; most retirement and pension funds; crime victims’ compensation; public benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and 100% of wages due within 30 days, as well as the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 30 times the federal minimum wage thereafter.
Missouri
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Missouri Revised Statutes Sections 513.430, 513.475) |
$15,000 / $5,000 | Missouri’s homestead exemption covers $15,000 of equity in a primary home or $5,000 of equity in a mobile home. Spouses cannot double Missouri’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 513.430) |
$3,000 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§§ 513.430, 513.440) |
$600 / $1,250 / $350 | Missouri’s wildcard exemption covers an additional $1,250 if the filer is a head of household, plus $350 for each dependent. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 513.430) |
$3,000 | Missouri’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, books, animals, crops, and musical instruments. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 513.430) |
$1,500 / $500 | Missouri’s jewelry exemption covers wedding rings up to $1,500 and other jewelry up to $500. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 513.430) |
$3,000 | – |
Missouri requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Missouri filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Missouri also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Missouri bankruptcy exemptions include burial property; prescribed health aids; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; firearms up to $1,500; health savings accounts; alimony, support, or maintenance up to $750 per month; most dividends, interest, or loan value of unmatured life insurance contracts up to $150,000; life insurance proceeds for funeral and burial expenses of certain family members up to $15,000; most retirement and pension plans; Social Security benefits; unemployment compensation; public assistance; veterans’ benefits; disability, illness, or unemployment benefits; and the greater of 75% of earned wages or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Montana
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Montana Code Sections 70-32-104, 25-13-615) |
$350,000 | Montana’s homestead exemption is limited to one quarter of a city acre, one acre outside a municipality, or 320 acres of farmland. Montana filers must already have a homestead declaration on file to qualify for Montana’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 25-13-609) |
$4,000 | – |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Montana has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 25-13-609) |
$7,000 | Montana’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, jewelry, books, firearms, sporting goods, animals, feed, crops, and musical instruments, up to $1,250 per item. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Jewelry is included in Montana’s household goods exemption. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 25-13-609) |
$4,500 | – |
Montana requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Montana filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Montana also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Montana bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; prescribed health aids; cooperative association shares; proceeds from insurance or the sale of exempt property; most life insurance proceeds; medical, surgical, or hospital care benefits; fraternal benefit society benefits; unmatured life insurance contracts; some annuity contracts; hail insurance benefits; alimony and child support; most retirement and pension funds; crime victims’ compensation; public assistance; unemployment compensation; veterans’ benefits; silicosis benefits; and the greater of 75% of earned wages or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Nebraska
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Nebraska Revised Statutes Sections 40-101, 40-116) |
$60,000 | Nebraska’s homestead exemption is limited to two city or village lots or up to 160 acres elsewhere. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 25-1556) |
$5,000 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 25-1552) |
$5,000 | Nebraska’s wildcard exemption does not cover wages. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 25-1556) |
$3,000 | Nebraska’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, computers, books, and musical instruments. It also covers an unlimited amount of immediate personal possessions and necessary clothing. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Jewelry is included in Nebraska’s household goods exemption. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 25-1556) |
$5,000 | Nebraska’s tools of the trade exemption does not include motor vehicles. |
Nebraska requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Nebraska filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Nebraska also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Nebraska bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; prescribed health aids; health savings accounts up to $25,000; life insurance or annuity proceeds or values up to $100,000; personal injury or wrongful death awards; many retirement and pension funds; some disability benefits; fraternal benefit society benefits up to $100,000; some partnership property; public assistance; earned income tax credits; unemployment compensation; general aid; workers’ compensation benefits; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings (85% for heads of household) or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Nevada
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Nevada Revised Statutes Sections 21.090, 115.005-115.090) |
$605,000 | Nevada filers must already have a homestead declaration on file to qualify for Nevada’s homestead exemption. Spouses cannot double Nevada’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 21.090) |
$15,000 / No limit | Nevada’s motor vehicle exemption covers an unlimited amount of equity in a motor vehicle equipped for a person with a disability. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 21.090) |
$10,000 | – |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 21.090) |
$12,000 | Nevada’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, electronics, clothing, other personal effects, and yard equipment. Nevada also exempts all family pictures and keepsakes and one firearm. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 21.090) |
$5,000 | Nevada’s jewelry exemption also covers private libraries, art, and musical instruments. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 21.090) |
$10,000 / $4,500 / $4,500 | Nevada’s tools of the trade exemption covers professional and trade items up to $10,000; farm equipment, supplies, and seed up to $4,500; and a miner or prospector’s dwelling, tools, inventory, and claims up to $4,500. Nevada additionally exempts arms and accoutrements required to be kept by law. |
Nevada requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Nevada filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Nevada also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Nevada bankruptcy exemptions include burial and funeral funds in trust; prescribed health aids; bona fide and cataloged collections of minerals, art curiosities, and paleontological remains; escrow and mortgage impound accounts; life insurance benefits; primary rental security deposits; alimony, maintenance, and child support; personal injury awards up to $16,150; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; loss of future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; criminal restitution; most pension and retirement funds up to $1,000,000; earned income tax credits; vocational rehabilitation benefits; Social Security; unemployment compensation; public assistance; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 82% of disposable earnings if the filer makes $770 or less per week or 75% of disposable earnings if the filer makes more than $770 per week, or 50 times the federal minimum wage.
New Hampshire
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (New Hampshire Revised Statutes Section 480:1) |
$120,000 | – |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 511:2) |
$10,000 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 511:2) |
$1,000 / $7,000 | New Hampshire filers may exempt any personal property up to $1,000, plus up to $7,000 of any unused household furniture, provisions and fuel, books, tools of the trade, motor vehicle, or jewelry exemption value. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 511:2) |
$3,500 / $400 / $800 | New Hampshire’s household goods exemption covers furniture up to $3,500, provisions and fuel up to $400, and books up to $800. It also covers an unlimited amount of necessary clothing, beds and bedding, utilities, one cook stove, one heat stove, one refrigerator, one sewing machine, and one computer. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 511:2) |
$500 | - |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 511:2) |
$5,000 | New Hampshire additionally exempts all arms, uniforms, and equipment for officers and privates. |
New Hampshire allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. New Hampshire also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, New Hampshire bankruptcy exemptions include burial property; one hog, one pig, six sheep, one cow, a yoke of oxen or a horse when required for farming or other use, hay up to four tons, and domestic fowls up to $300; homeowners’ insurance proceeds up to $5,000; most life insurance proceeds; most retirement funds; public employee benefits; firefighter and police benefits; public assistance; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and wages equal to 50 times the federal minimum wage.
New Jersey
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Homestead exemption | – | New Jersey has no homestead exemption. |
| Motor vehicle exemption | – | New Jersey has no motor vehicle exemption, but filers may use New Jersey’s wildcard exemption to cover a vehicle. |
|
Wildcard exemption (New Jersey Revised Statutes Section 2A:17-19) |
$1,000 | New Jersey’s wildcard exemption covers personal property, stocks, and corporate interests. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 2A:26-4) |
$1,000 | New Jersey’s household goods exemption covers furniture and other household goods. It also covers clothing. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | New Jersey has no jewelry exemption. |
| Tools of the trade exemption | – | New Jersey has no tools of the trade exemption. |
New Jersey allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. New Jersey also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, New Jersey bankruptcy exemptions include burial funds and property; most life insurance proceeds; annuity benefits up to $500 per month; health insurance proceeds; most disability benefits; many pensions; old age assistance; partnership property; crime victims’ compensation; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; all military pay; and 90% of wages (filers for whom income exceeds 250% of the poverty level may receive a lesser exemption).
New Mexico
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (New Mexico Statutes Section 42-10-9) |
$60,000 | - |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§§ 42-10-1, 42-10-2) |
$4,000 | - |
|
Wildcard exemption (§§ 42-10-1, 42-10-10) |
$500 / $5,000 | New Mexico’s wildcard exemption covers any personal property other than cash up to $500 and any real or personal property up to $5,000 if a filer does not own a homestead. |
|
Household goods exemption (§§ 42-10-1, 42-10-2) |
No limit | New Mexico’s household goods exemption covers furniture, clothing, and books. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§§ 42-10-1, 42-10-2) |
$2,500 | – |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§§ 42-10-1, 42-10-2) |
$1,500 | – |
New Mexico allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. New Mexico also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, New Mexico bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; pension and retirement funds; some cooperative association shares; benevolent association beneficiary funds up to $5,000; fraternal benefit society benefits; cash surrender value of life insurance policies; withdrawal or cash value of life, accident, health, or annuity benefits; construction materials; ownership interest in unincorporated associations; particular partnership property; interest in spendthrift trusts; crime victims’ compensation; public assistance; occupational disease disablement benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 40 times the federal minimum wage.
New York
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (New York Civil Practice Law and Rules Section 5206) |
$179,950 / $149,975 / $89,975 | New York’s homestead exemption is determined by county. Filers in Kings, Queens, New York, Bronx, Richmond, Nassau, Suffolk, Rockland, Westchester, and Putnam Counties may exempt $179,950 in equity. Filers in Dutchess, Albany, Columbia, Orange, Saratoga, and Ulster Counties may exempt $149,975. Filers in all other counties may exempt $89,975. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 5205) |
$4,825 (or $11,975 under certain circumstances) | New York’s motor vehicle exemption increases to $11,975 if the filer’s motor vehicle is equipped for their disability. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 5205) |
$1,175 | New York’s wildcard exemption is only available to filers who do not use the homestead exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 5205, N.Y. Debtor and Creditor Law § 283) |
$11,975 | New York’s household goods exemption includes furniture, clothing, one refrigerator, one radio, one television, one computer, one cellphone, necessary cooking utensils, stoves, heating equipment, fuel and food necessary for 120 days, one sewing machine, religious texts, school books, and family pictures. It also covers other books up to $600. Additionally, a filer may exempt cash up to $6,000 (in some cases less) if they do not use the homestead exemption and cannot reach the household goods exemption limit otherwise. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 5205) |
$1,175 | New York’s jewelry exemption covers wedding rings, watches, jewelry, and art. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 5205) |
$3,575 | New York additionally exempts all military uniforms, arms, and equipment. |
New York allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. New York also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, New York bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots up to one quarter of an acre; prescribed health aids; domestic animals and animal food for 120 days up to $1,175; awards for taking or injuring exempt property; some personal injury awards; lost future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; most trust property when the trust was not created by the filer; most retirement funds; all college tuition savings program funds if the account was established for a scholarship program or for a minor; college choice tuition savings program funds in accounts established for filers up to $11,975; security deposits for rental property or utilities; alimony, maintenance, and child support; Social Security; unemployment compensation; disability benefits; public assistance; veterans’ benefits; crime victims’ reparation benefits; workers’ compensation; military pay; and 90% of income received within 60 days before filing and 90% of earnings from milk sales.
North Carolina
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (North Carolina General Statutes Section 1C-1601) |
$35,000 (or $60,000 under certain circumstances) | North Carolina’s homestead exemption increases to $60,000 when the filer is 65 or older and unmarried, and had previously owned the property as a tenant by the entirety or as a joint tenant with rights of survivorship, and the former co-owner is deceased. North Carolina’s homestead exemption may alternatively be used to cover the filer or a dependent’s burial plot. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 1C-1601) |
$3,500 | North Carolina’s motor vehicle exemption does not cover vehicles purchased less than 90 days before filing, unless traceable to the liquidation or conversion of exempt property. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 1C-1601) |
$500 / $5,000 | North Carolina filers may exempt any personal property up to $500, plus up to $5,000 of any unused homestead exemption value. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 1C-1601) |
$5,000 (plus up to an additional $4,000 for dependents) | North Carolina’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, books, animals, crops, and musical instruments so long as they were purchased more than 90 days before filing or traceable to the liquidation or conversion of exempt property. North Carolina’s household goods exemption increases by $1,000 for each dependent of the filer, up to $4,000.) |
| Jewelry exemption | - | North Carolina has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use North Carolina’s wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 1C-1601) |
$2,000 | North Carolina’s tools of the trade exemption does not cover tools purchased less than 90 days before filing, unless traceable to the liquidation or conversion of exempt property. |
North Carolina requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While North Carolina filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. North Carolina also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, North Carolina bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; some personal injury and wrongful death compensation; most retirement and pension funds; most qualified college savings funds up to $25,000; some life insurance; alimony, maintenance, and child support to the extent reasonably necessary for support; Social Security; crime victims’ compensation; aid to the blind and families with dependent children; veterans’ benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and wages earned within 60 days of filing.
North Dakota
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (North Dakota Century Code Sections 28-22-02, 47-18-01) |
$100,000 | Spouses cannot double North Dakota’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 28-22-03.1) |
$2,950 (or $32,000 under certain circumstances) | North Dakota’s motor vehicle exemption increases to $32,000 when the vehicle has been modified at a cost of at least $1,500 to accommodate an owner with a disability. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§§ 28-22-03, 28-22-03.1, 28-22-05) |
$3,750 (or up to $10,000 under certain circumstances) | North Dakota’s wildcard exemption increases to $7,500 if the filer is the head of a household, and $10,000 if the filer does not use the homestead exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 28-22-02) |
No limit / $5,000 | North Dakota’s household goods exemption covers all family pictures, books, provisions necessary for one year, and crops and grain from up to 160 acres. It also covers clothing up to $5,000. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | North Dakota has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use North Dakota’s wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 28-22-03.1) |
$1,500 | – |
North Dakota requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While North Dakota filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. North Dakota also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, North Dakota bankruptcy exemptions include burial lots; prescribed health aids; most retirement funds up to $200,000 or to the extent reasonably necessary for support; public pensions; most unmatured life insurance contracts; some dividends, interest, or loan value of any unmatured life insurance contracts owned by the filer up to $8,000; fraternal benefit society benefits; alimony or maintenance; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; life insurance payments to the extent reasonably necessary for support; personal injury payments up to $18,450; loss of future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; crime victims’ awards; Social Security; veterans’ benefits; disability, illness, or unemployment benefits; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 40 times the federal minimum wage.
Ohio
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Ohio Revised Code Section 2329.66) |
$145,425 | - |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 2329.66) |
$4,000 | - |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 2329.66) |
$1,325 | - |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 2329.66) |
$13,400 | Ohio’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, books, animals, crops, musical instruments, firearms, and hunting and fishing equipment up to $625 per item. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 2329.66) |
$1,700 | - |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 2329.66) |
$2,550 | - |
Ohio requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Ohio filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Ohio also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Ohio bankruptcy exemptions include burial lots; prescribed or necessary health aids; many pension funds; personal injury awards up to $25,175; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; loss of future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; spousal or child support to the extent reasonably necessary for support; specific partnership property; an official register and seal of a notary public; tuition payment contract payments or units; fraternal benefit society benefits; benevolent society death benefits up to $5,000; prevention, retention, and contingency program benefits; Ohio works first program cash assistance payments; crime victims’ compensation awards; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; deposits or cash up to $500; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Oklahoma
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Oklahoma Statutes Section 31-1) |
No limit (or $5,000 under certain circumstances) | Oklahoma’s homestead exemption covers an unlimited amount of equity in a primary residence, but this exemption is limited to one acre in a city or town and 160 acres elsewhere. Oklahoma limits the homestead exemption to $5,000 if the filer uses more than 25% of the total square footage of the home for business. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 31-1) |
$7,500 | - |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Oklahoma has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 31-1) |
No limit / $4,000 | Oklahoma’s household goods exemption covers furniture, a computer, books, portraits, and pictures. It also covers clothing up to $4,000 and provisions for one year. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 31-1) |
$3,000 | Oklahoma’s jewelry exemption covers wedding and anniversary rings. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 31-1) |
$10,000 | - |
Oklahoma requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Oklahoma filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Oklahoma also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Oklahoma bankruptcy exemptions include burial property; prepaid funeral funds; prescribed health aids; five milk cows and their calves under six months old, 100 chickens, 10 hogs, 20 head of sheep, two horses, two bridles, and two saddles; guns not held for mainly investment purposes up to $2,000; liquor licenses; personal injury, wrongful death, or workers’ compensation awards up to $50,000; individual development account funds; earned income tax credits; Oklahoma college savings plans; alimony, maintenance, and child support to the extent reasonably necessary for support; most retirement and pension funds; many insurance benefits; soldier, sailor, and marine disability pension funds; crime victims’ compensation; public assistance; Social Security benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and 75% of earnings in the last 90 days.
Oregon
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Oregon Revised Statutes Sections 18.395, 18.398, 18.402) |
$40,000 (or $50,000 under certain circumstances) | Oregon’s homestead exemption is limited to one block in a city or town or 160 acres elsewhere. Filers who are members of the same household can exempt up to $50,000 of home equity. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 18.345) |
$3,000 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 18.345) |
$400 | Oregon’s wildcard exemption cannot be used to increase the amount of another exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 18.345) |
$3,000 / $600 / $1,800 / $1,000 | Oregon’s household goods exemption includes furniture, radios, a television, and utensils up to $3,000. It also covers provisions and fuel for up to 60 days; books, pictures, and musical instruments up to $600; clothing, jewelry, and personal items up to $1,800; and domestic animals and poultry up to $1,000, plus food sufficient to support such animals for 60 days. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Jewelry is included in Oregon’s household goods exemption. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 18.345) |
$5,000 | – |
Oregon allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Oregon also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Oregon bankruptcy exemptions include burial lots; prescribed health aids; public property; one rifle or shotgun and one pistol up to $1,000 total; liquor licenses; building materials; most retirement and pension funds; fraternal benefit society benefits; group life policies or proceeds not payable to the insured; health or disability proceeds; some life insurance proceeds or value; annuity contract benefits up to $500 per month; alimony, maintenance, and child support to the extent reasonably necessary for support; personal injury awards up to $10,000; loss of future income awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; earned income tax credits; medical or health savings accounts; crime victims’ reparation awards; veterans’ benefits and loans; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; exempt funds deposited in a bank account up to $7,500; and 75% of disposable earnings (generally).
Pennsylvania
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Homestead exemption | – | Pennsylvania has no homestead exemption. |
| Motor vehicle exemption | – | Pennsylvania has no motor vehicle exemption, but filers may use Pennsylvania’s wildcard exemption to cover a vehicle. |
|
Wildcard exemption (Pennsylvania Statutes Title 42, Section 8123) |
$300 | – |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 8124) |
No limit | Pennsylvania’s household goods exemption covers clothing, bibles, school books, sewing machines, and military uniforms and accoutrements. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Pennsylvania has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use Pennsylvania’s wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
| Tools of the trade exemption | – | Pennsylvania has no tools of the trade exemption, but filers may use Pennsylvania’s wildcard exemption to cover tools of the trade. |
Pennsylvania allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Pennsylvania also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Pennsylvania bankruptcy exemptions include most retirement and pension funds; insurance or annuity returns up to $100 per month; some life insurance proceeds; group insurance policies and proceeds; fraternal benefit society benefits; accident or disability insurance proceeds; no-fault car insurance proceeds; veterans’ benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and wages held by an employer.
Rhode Island
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Rhode Island General Laws Section 9-26-4.1) |
$ 500,000 | Spouses cannot double Rhode Island’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 9-26-4) |
$12,000 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 9-26-4) |
$6,500 | – |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 9-26-4) |
$9,600 / $300 | Rhode Island’s household goods exemption covers furniture, clothing, and family stores, including beds and bedding up to $9,600. It additionally covers books up to $300 and all necessary clothing. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 9-26-4) |
$2,000 | – |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 9-26-4) |
$2,000 | Rhode Island’s tools of the trade exemption additionally covers professional libraries of an unlimited value. |
Rhode Island allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Rhode Island also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Rhode Island bankruptcy exemptions include burial property; most retirement and pension funds; alimony, maintenance, and child support; prepaid tuition or tuition savings program funds; specific partnership property; fraternal benefit society benefits; most life, accident, or illness insurance proceeds; public benefits; disability benefits; crime victims’ compensation; veterans’ disability or survivors’ death benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; military members’ and sailors’ wages; certain low-income relief; wages due in the year following receipt of low-income relief; and other salary or wages up to $50.
South Carolina
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (South Carolina Code Section 15-41-30) |
$63,250 | South Carolina’s homestead exemption may alternatively be used to cover the filer or a dependent’s burial plot. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 15-41-30) |
$6,325 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 15-41-30) |
$6,325 | South Carolina filers may exempt any property up to $6,325 of any unused homestead, motor vehicle, household goods, jewelry, cash, or tools of the trade exemption value. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 15-41-30) |
$5,050 | South Carolina’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, books, animals, crops, and musical instruments. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 15-41-30) |
$1,275 | - |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 15-41-30) |
$1,900 | - |
South Carolina requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While South Carolina filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. South Carolina also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, South Carolina bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; personal injury and wrongful death awards; three guns up to $3,000 total; college investment program funds; most retirement and pension funds; accident, disability, or illness benefits; proceeds and cash surrender value of some life insurance policies; fraternal benefit society benefits; most life insurance contracts; dividends, interest, and loan value of unmatured life insurance contracts up to $5,050; alimony, maintenance, and child support; some partnership property; public benefits; crime victims’ reparation awards; Social Security benefits; unemployment compensation; veterans’ benefits; workers’ compensation; and cash or liquid assets up to $6,325 if the filer does not use the homestead exemption.
South Dakota
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (South Dakota Codified Laws Sections 43-31-1, 43-31-4) |
No limit (or up to $170,000 under certain circumstances) | South Dakota’s homestead exemption covers an unlimited amount of equity in a primary residence, but this exemption is limited to one acre in a city or town and 160 acres elsewhere. South Dakota’s homestead exemption is limited to $60,000 when a filer exempts proceeds from the sale of their home within one year, which increases to $170,000 if the filer’s spouse is deceased or if they are 70 or older and unmarried. |
| Motor vehicle exemption | – | South Dakota has no motor vehicle exemption, but filers may use South Dakota’s wildcard exemption to cover a vehicle. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 43-45-4) |
$5,000 (or $7,000 under certain circumstances) | South Dakota’s wildcard exemption increases to $7,000 if the filer is the head of a family. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 43-45-2) |
No limit / $200 | South Dakota’s household goods exemption covers an unlimited amount of family pictures, clothing, provisions for one year, and books up to $200. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | South Dakota has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use South Dakota’s wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
| Tools of the trade exemption | – | South Dakota has no tools of the trade exemption, but filers may use South Dakota’s wildcard exemption to cover tools. |
South Dakota requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While South Dakota filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. South Dakota also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, South Dakota bankruptcy exemptions include burial lots; prescribed health aids; most retirement and pension funds; alimony, maintenance, and support up to $750 per month; life insurance proceeds for the benefit of a surviving spouse or child up to $10,000; health benefits up to $20,000; life insurance policies or proceeds up to $20,000; annuity contract payments up to $250 per month; fraternal benefit society benefits; crime victims’ compensation; public assistance; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and wages necessary for support earned within 60 days of filing.
Tennessee
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Tennessee Code Section 26-2-301) |
$5,000 (or higher under certain circumstances) | Tennessee’s homestead exemption increases to $7,500 for co-owning spouses filing jointly, $12,000 for a filer at least 62 years old, $20,000 if only one spouse is 62 or older, $25,000 if both spouses are 62 or older, and $25,000 if the filer has a minor dependent child in the household. |
| Motor vehicle exemption | – | Tennessee has no motor vehicle exemption, but filers may use Tennessee's wildcard exemption to cover a vehicle. |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 26-2-103) |
$10,000 | – |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 26-2-104) |
No limit | Tennessee’s household goods exemption covers an unlimited amount of necessary clothing, all family portraits and pictures, and a bible and school books. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Tennessee has no jewelry exemption, but filers may use Tennessee’s wildcard exemption to cover jewelry. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 26-2-111) |
$1,900 | – |
Tennessee requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Tennessee filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Tennessee also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Tennessee bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; prescribed health aids; health savings accounts; college savings plans and scholarship benefits; most retirement and pension funds; personal injury awards up to $7,500; wrongful death awards up to $10,000; loss of future income awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; some alimony and child support; liquid child support assets owed; fraternal benefit society benefits; life insurance and annuity payments; crime victims’ reparations awards up to $5,000; Social Security benefits; unemployment compensation; public assistance; veterans’ benefits; disability, illness, or unemployment benefits; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 75% of earnings or 30 times the federal minimum wage, plus $2.50 per week per dependent under 16.
Texas
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Texas Property Code Sections 41.001, 41.002, 41.003) |
No limit | Texas’ homestead exemption covers an unlimited amount of equity in a primary residence, but this exemption is limited to 10 acres in a city or town and 100 acres elsewhere. This limit increases to 200 acres for a family. Texas’ homestead exemption may also be used to cover burial plots. |
| Motor vehicle exemption | – | Motor vehicles are included in Texas’ household goods exemption. |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Texas has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§§ 42.001, 42.002) |
$50,000 (or $100,000 under certain circumstances) | Texas’ household goods exemption covers furnishings; family heirlooms; provisions; farming or ranching vehicles and implements; tools, equipment, books, and apparatus, including boats and vehicles used in a trade or profession; two firearms; a motor vehicle for each family member holding a driver’s license or relying on the vehicle; two horses, mules, or donkeys and a saddle, blanket, and bridle for each, 12 head of cattle, 60 head of other livestock, and 120 fowl; household pets; sporting equipment; clothing; jewelry up to 25% of the limit; and unpaid commissions up to 25% of the limit. It also covers religious texts. It increases to $100,000 if the filer has a family. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Jewelry is included in Texas’ household goods exemption. |
| Tools of the trade exemption | – | Tools of the trade are included in Texas’ household goods exemption. |
Texas allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Texas also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Texas bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; most retirement and pension funds; fraternal benefit society benefits; life, health, accident, or annuity benefits; Texas state employee group life insurance; specific partnership property; college savings plans; alimony, maintenance, or child support; crime victims’ awards; survivors’ benefits for public officers killed in duty; public assistance; medical assistance; unemployment benefits; workers’ compensation; and current wages.
Utah
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Utah Code Sections 78B-5-503, 78B-5-503) |
$43,300 (or $5,100 under certain circumstances) | Utah’s homestead exemption is limited to one acre of a primary personal residence. Utah’s homestead exemption alternatively covers $5,100 of equity in real estate that is not the filer’s primary residence. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 78B-5-506) |
$3,000 | – |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Utah has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§§ 78B-5-505, 78B-5-506) |
$1,000 / $1,000 / $1,000 / $1,000 | Utah’s household goods exemption covers sofas and furnishings up to $1,000; dining and kitchen tables and chairs up to $1,000; animals, books, and musical instruments up to $1,000; and heirlooms and other sentimental items up to $1,000. Utah also exempts food for one year; a washer and dryer; a refrigerator; a freezer; a stove; a microwave; a sewing machine; carpets in use; clothing (excluding jewelry and furs); beds and bedding; and works of art depicting or produced by the filer or their family. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Utah has no jewelry exemption. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 78B-5-506) |
$5,000 | – |
Utah requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Utah filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Utah also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Utah bankruptcy exemptions include burial lots; one handgun, one shotgun, one shoulder arm, and 1,000 rounds of ammunition per firearm; necessary health aids; personal injury and wrongful death awards; proceeds from sold, lost, or damaged exempt property; medical, surgical, and hospital care benefits; alimony or maintenance to the extent reasonably necessary for support; child support; most life insurance benefits and proceeds; most proceeds of unmatured life insurance contracts; fraternal benefit society benefits; most retirement and pension funds; most 529 higher education savings plan funds up to $200,000; disability and illness benefits; veterans’ benefits; crime victims’ compensation; general assistance; unemployment benefits; workers’ compensation; unpaid earnings in the amount of 1/24 of the Utah annual median family income if the filer is paid more than once a month or 1/12 if the filer is only paid once a month; and the greater of 75% of disposable income or 37 times the federal minimum wage.
Vermont
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Vermont Statutes Section 27-101) |
$125,000 | Spouses cannot double Vermont’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 12-2740) |
$2,500 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 12-2740) |
$400 / $7,000 | Vermont filers may exempt any property up to $400, plus up to $7,000 of any unused motor vehicle, tools of the trade, jewelry, household goods, and crops exemption value. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 12-2740) |
$2,500 | Vermont’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, books, animals, crops, and musical instruments. Vermont additionally exempts one cooking stove, heating appliances, one refrigerator, one freezer, one water heater, and sewing machines of any value. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 12-2740) |
$500 | Vermont’s jewelry exemption covers jewelry up to $500 and a wedding ring of any value. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 12-2740) |
$5,000 | – |
Vermont allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Vermont also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Vermont bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; crops up to $5,000; 10 cords of firewood, five tons of coal, or 500 gallons of oil; 500 gallons of bottled gas; one cow, two goats, 10 sheep, 10 chickens, and feed sufficient for one winter; three swarms of bees and their hives and honey; one yoke of oxen or steers and two horses kept and used for team work; two harnesses, two halters, two chains, one plow, and one ox yoke; some retirement and pension funds; most unmatured life insurance contracts; annuity contract benefits up to $350 per month; disability benefits supplemental to life insurance or annuity contracts; fraternal benefit society benefits; Social Security benefits, veterans’ benefits, disability or illness benefits, alimony, support, or maintenance, crime victims’ reparation awards, personal injury awards, wrongful death awards, life insurance payments, loss of future earnings awards, and death, disability, illness, or retirement payments to the extent reasonably necessary for support; unemployment compensation; public assistance; workers’ compensation; bank accounts up to $700; and the greater of 75% of disposable wages or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
Virginia
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Virginia Code Sections 34-4, 64.2-311) |
$25,000 (or $20,000 under certain circumstances) | Virginia filers must already have a homestead declaration on file to qualify for Virginia’s homestead exemption. Virginia’s homestead exemption is $20,000 for surviving spouses and dependent children of deceased homeowners. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 34-26) |
$6,000 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 34-3) |
$5,000 (or $10,000 under certain circumstances) / $500 | Virginia’s wildcard exemption increases to $10,000 if the filer is 65 or older or a veteran with a service-connected disability of 40% or more. Virginia provides an additional $500 wildcard exemption for each dependent. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 34-26) |
$5,000 / $5,000 / $1,000 | Virginia’s household goods exemption covers furnishings including beds, stoves, washing machines, sewing machines, and utensils up to $5,000. Virginia also exempts a family bible, pets, family portraits and heirlooms up to $5,000, and clothing up to $1,000. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 34-26) |
No limit | Virginia’s jewelry exemption covers wedding and engagement rings. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 34-26) |
$10,000 | Virginia additionally exempts all military equipment, uniforms, and arms required to be kept by law. |
Virginia requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Virginia filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Virginia also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Virginia bankruptcy exemptions include burial lots; preneed funeral contracts up to $5,000; prescribed health aids; firearms up to $3,000; a pair of horses or mules with necessary gearing, one wagon or cart, one tractor up to $3,000, two plows, one drag, one harvest cradle, one pitchfork, one rake, two iron wedges, and fertilizer up to $1,000 if the filer is in the business of agriculture; child tax credits; some college savings funds; unpaid spousal and child support; fraternal benefit society benefits; health savings accounts; some retirement funds; accident and illness benefits; continuing care provider accounts; cooperative nonprofit life benefits; industrial sick benefit insurance benefits; most life insurance and annuity benefits; personal injury and wrongful death awards; crime victims’ compensation; Social Security benefits; public benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 40 times the federal minimum wage.
Washington
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Washington Revised Code Sections 6.13.010, 6.13.020, 6.13.030) |
$172,900-$729,600 (or $15,000 under certain circumstances) | Washington’s homestead exemption varies by county and is limited to $15,000 for personal property used as a residence. Spouses cannot double Washington’s homestead exemption. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 6.15.010) |
$3,250 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 6.15.010) |
$3,000 | Washington’s $3,000 wildcard exemption is limited to $1,500 in cash and $500 in bank accounts, although the limit increases to $2,000 for filers with consumer debt and $2,500 for filers with private student loans. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 6.15.010) |
$6,500 (or $13,000 under certain circumstances) / $3,500 | Washington’s household goods exemption covers appliances, furniture, home and yard equipment, and provisions and fuel up to $6,500 for an individual or $13,000 for community property of spouses maintaining a single household (with no one item exceeding $750). It also covers clothing, all family pictures and keepsakes, a cell phone, a computer, and a printer of unlimited value. It additionally covers books and electronic media up to $3,500. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 6.15.010) |
$3,500 | Washington’s jewelry exemption includes jewelry, furs, and other personal ornaments. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 6.15.010) |
$10,000 | – |
Washington allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Washington also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Washington bankruptcy exemptions include some burial lots; prescribed health aids; many retirement and pension funds; many annuity benefits; many life insurance proceeds; fraternal benefit society benefits; child support; personal injury awards up to $20,000; loss of future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; some tuition units and qualified tuition program funds; disability benefits; crime victims’ compensation; Social Security benefits; public assistance; unemployment benefits; workers’ compensation; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 35 times the federal minimum wage.
Washington, D.C.
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (District of Columbia Code Section 15-501) |
No limit | – |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 15-501) |
$2,575 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 15-501) |
$850 / $8,075 | Washington, D.C. filers may exempt any personal property up to $850, plus up to $8,075 of any unused homestead exemption value. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 15-501) |
$8,625 / $400 / $300 | Washington, D.C.’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, books, animals, crops, and musical instruments up to $425 per item. It additionally exempts all family pictures and books up to $400 and clothing of individuals not supporting a family up to $300. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Washington, D.C. has no jewelry exemption. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 15-501) |
$1,625 / $300 / $200 | Washington, D.C.’s tools of the trade exemption covers implements, professional books, or other tools of the trade up to $1,625. It additionally covers libraries, office furniture, and implements of a professional or artist up to $300 and mechanic’s tools of individuals not supporting a family up to $200. |
Washington, D.C. allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Washington, D.C. also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Washington, D.C. bankruptcy exemptions include burial plots; prescribed health aids; the official seal and documents of a notary public; tuition savings accounts; most unmatured life insurance contracts; fraternal benefit society benefits; alimony, support, or maintenance to the extent reasonably necessary for support; most pension and retirement funds; many life insurance payments to the extent reasonably necessary for support; pain and suffering or pecuniary loss awards; loss of future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; non-wage earnings up to $200 a month for two months for the head of a family or $60 a month for two months for others; crime victims’ reparation awards; Social Security benefits; public assistance; veterans’ benefits; disability or illness benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; and 75% of disposable wages.
West Virginia
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (West Virginia Code Section 38-10-4) |
$35,000 | West Virginia’s homestead exemption may alternatively be used to cover the filer or a dependent’s burial plot. |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 38-10-4) |
$7,500 | – |
|
Wildcard exemption (§ 38-10-4) |
$800+ | West Virginia filers may exempt any personal property up to $800, plus any unused homestead exemption value. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 38-10-4) |
$8,000 | West Virginia’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, books, animals, crops, and musical instruments up to $400 per item. |
|
Jewelry exemption (§ 38-10-4) |
$1,000 | – |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 38-10-4) |
$1,500 | – |
West Virginia requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While West Virginia filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. West Virginia also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, West Virginia bankruptcy exemptions include prescribed health aids; most life insurance contracts; the dividends, interest, or loan value of unmeasured life insurance contracts owned by the filer under which the insured is the filer or an individual of whom the filer is a dependent up to $8,000; prepaid tuition trust funds and college savings plans; alimony, support, or maintenance to the extent reasonably necessary for support; most retirement and pension funds; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; personal injury awards up to $15,000; loss of future earnings awards to the extent necessary for support; most life insurance payments to the extent reasonably necessary for support; crime victims’ reparation awards; Social Security benefits; public assistance; veterans’ benefits; disability or illness benefits; and unemployment compensation.
Wisconsin
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Wisconsin Statutes Section 815.20) |
$75,000 | – |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 815.18) |
$4,000 (plus up to $12,000 under certain circumstances) | Wisconsin filers may apply up to $12,000 of the unused portion of their household goods exemption to cover a vehicle in addition to the $4,000 motor vehicle exemption. |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Wisconsin has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§ 815.18) |
$12,000 | Wisconsin’s household goods exemption covers furnishings, appliances, clothing, keepsakes, jewelry, articles of personal adornment, books, musical instruments, firearms, sporting goods, animals, and other tangible personal property. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Jewelry is included in Wisconsin’s household goods exemption. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 815.18) |
$15,000 | Wisconsin’s tools of the trade exemption may be used to cover a filer’s interest in a closely held business at which they are employed or actively involved if they do not exempt tools of the trade such as equipment, inventory, farm products, and professional books. |
Wisconsin allows bankruptcy filers to choose between using state or federal exemptions, although filers cannot mix exemptions from each set. Filers who choose state exemptions may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Wisconsin also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Wisconsin bankruptcy exemptions include burial property; maintenance or child support to the extent reasonably necessary for support; fire and casualty insurance proceeds for exempt property within the last two years; federal disability insurance benefits; most retirement and pension funds; most unmatured life insurance or annuity contracts; dividends, interest, or loan value of unmatured life insurance contracts owned by the filer under which the insured is the filer, the filer’s dependent, or an individual of whom the filer is a dependent; most life insurance payments; fraternal benefit society benefits; wrongful death awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; personal injury awards up to $50,000; loss of future earnings awards to the extent reasonably necessary for support; tuition units and college savings accounts; partnership property; crime victims’ awards; public assistance; veterans’ benefits; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; bank deposits up to $5,000; and the greater of 75% of net income or 30 times the federal minimum wage (although this benefit may be limited to the extent reasonably necessary for support).
Wyoming
| Type of Exemption | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Homestead exemption (Wyoming Statutes Sections 1-20-101, 1-20-102, 1-20-104, 1-20-104) |
$20,000 | – |
|
Motor vehicle exemption (§ 1-20-106) |
$5,000 | – |
| Wildcard exemption | – | Wyoming has no wildcard exemption. |
|
Household goods exemption (§§ 1-20-105, 1-20-106) |
$4,000 / $2,000 | Wyoming’s household goods exemption covers furniture, bedding, and provisions up to $4,000 per household member, as well as a family bible, family pictures, and school books of an unlimited value. It also covers clothing and wedding rings (but no other jewelry) up to $2,000. |
| Jewelry exemption | – | Wedding rings are included in Wyoming’s household goods exemption. |
|
Tools of the trade exemption (§ 1-20-106) |
$4,000 | – |
Wyoming requires bankruptcy filers to use state bankruptcy exemptions. While Wyoming filers do not have the option to use federal exemptions, they may use the federal nonbankruptcy exemption list. Wyoming also allows jointly filing spouses to double most exemptions if they both own the property.
In addition to the exemptions described above, Wyoming bankruptcy exemptions include burial lots; prepaid funeral contracts; three firearms up to $3,000 and associated ammunition up to 1,000 rounds; medical savings accounts; annuity proceeds up to $350 per month; most retirement and pension funds; some disability benefits; some life insurance benefits and proceeds; liquor licenses; crime victims’ compensation; public assistance; unemployment compensation; workers’ compensation; national guard member earnings; and the greater of 75% of disposable earnings or 30 times the federal minimum wage.
