This page provides general legal information and calculation tools, not legal advice. DocketMath is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation, and using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change and exceptions apply, so deadlines and amounts specific to your situation should be confirmed with a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.

Bankruptcy Exemption in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, the homestead exemption allows a debtor to protect up to $300 of equity in a primary residence from creditors in bankruptcy. This amount is set by state law under 42 Pa.C.S. § 8124, which governs the exemption for real property used as a residence. The exemption applies automatically in bankruptcy unless the debtor chooses the federal exemptions under 11 U.S.C. § 522(d), which may allow a higher amount for some filers. The state statute also provides additional exemptions for other types of property, such as personal belongings and tools of trade, as specified in 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 8123 and 8127. The worked example below illustrates how the $300 figure applies to a typical scenario. To estimate the exemptions available in a specific case, use the calculator.

Governing authority

In Pennsylvania, the bankruptcy exemption rule is set by 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 8123, 8124, 8127; 11 U.S.C. § 522(d). The verified packet cites 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 8123, 8124, 8127; 11 U.S.C. § 522(d) (https://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/CT/HTM/42/00.081.023.000..HTM).

Pennsylvania bankruptcy exemption: the verified value is $300 under 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 8123, 8124, 8127; 11 U.S.C. § 522(d). The verified packet cites 42 Pa.C.S. §§ 8123, 8124, 8127; 11 U.S.C. § 522(d) (https://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/CT/HTM/42/00.081.023.000..HTM).

Estimate your own result: every situation has exceptions that can change the outcome. Use the bankruptcy exemption calculator to estimate your specific figure.

This page provides general legal information and calculation tools, not legal advice. DocketMath is not a law firm and does not provide legal representation, and using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change and exceptions apply, so deadlines and amounts specific to your situation should be confirmed with a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.