State Bankruptcy Exemption Comparison Tool
Select 2–3 states to compare homestead, vehicle, personal property, retirement, and wildcard exemptions side-by-side. Color-coded to show which state offers stronger protection in each category.
Select States to Compare
California Homestead Protection
$313,200
California protects up to $313,200 of home equity when you file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy.
Federal exemption option: States marked with "Federal opt-in" allow debtors to choose between state exemptions and the federal bankruptcy exemption schedule. You may not mix both — pick whichever set protects more of your property.
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See If You Qualify for Chapter 7
Knowing your state's exemptions is step one. Run the free qualification check to see if you meet the income limits — takes under 5 minutes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are bankruptcy exemptions?
Bankruptcy exemptions are legal protections that let you keep certain property when you file for Chapter 7. Each state sets its own limits for homestead, vehicle, personal property, retirement accounts, tools of trade, and a wildcard amount.
Can I choose between federal and state exemptions?
Some states allow debtors to choose between state exemptions and the federal bankruptcy exemption schedule. You must pick one complete set — you cannot mix and match. States with this option are marked in the comparison tool.
Which state has the best bankruptcy exemptions?
Texas, Florida, Kansas, and Iowa offer unlimited homestead exemptions. Texas also has among the highest vehicle and personal property protections. The 'best' state depends on your specific assets — use this tool to compare.
What is a wildcard exemption?
A wildcard exemption is a flexible amount you can apply to any property of your choice — cash, a second vehicle, or any asset not fully covered by other exemptions. Not all states offer a wildcard.
Do exemptions affect Chapter 7 eligibility?
No — exemptions determine what you keep, not whether you qualify. Qualification is based on the means test, which compares your income to your state median. Run the free qualification check to see if you're eligible.
Non-Attorney Notice: JustiPal™ is a document preparation service — not a law firm. Exemption amounts shown are for educational purposes and reflect general 2025/2026 figures. Individual exemption eligibility depends on your specific circumstances, equity calculations, and applicable law. Consult a licensed bankruptcy attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.