Connecticut Bankruptcy Exemptions

Connecticut is a dual-choice state—you may use state exemptions and certain federal exemptions in bankruptcy. Below is an overview of **Connecticut-specific** exemptions, including a **\$1,000 wildcard** that can be applied to any property. Always verify the latest amounts and statutes, as laws can change or be interpreted differently by courts.

Asset / Type of PropertyExemption DescriptionStatute / CodeNotes
HomesteadReal property (including mobile/manufactured home) up to \$75,000.C.G.S. § 52-352b(t)
Disability Benefits (Association Members)Exempt disability payments from associations.C.G.S. § 52-352b(p)
Fraternal Benefit Society BenefitsFully exempt.C.G.S. § 38a-637
Health or Disability BenefitsFully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(e)
Life Insurance Proceeds (Anti-Creditor Clause)Exempt if policy prevents paying beneficiary’s creditors.C.G.S. § 38a-454
Life Insurance Proceeds / AvailsGenerally exempt from claims (beneficiary not the insured).C.G.S. § 38a-453
Unmatured Life Insurance (Loan Value)Up to \$4,000.C.G.S. § 52-352b(s)
AlimonyExempt to the extent wages are exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(n)
Child SupportFully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(h)
Farm Partnership Animals & FeedIf at least 50% of partners are family members, “reasonably required” feed/animals are exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352d
Property of Business PartnershipExempt from individual partner’s creditors.C.G.S. § 34-63
ERISA-Qualified BenefitsExempt to extent wages are exempt (only payments being received).C.G.S. § 52-352b(m)
Municipal EmployeesExempt pension benefits.C.G.S. § 7-446
Probate Judges & EmployeesExempt retirement payments.C.G.S. § 45-29o
State EmployeesExempt benefits.C.G.S. §§ 5-171, 5-192w
TeachersExempt pension benefits.C.G.S. § 10-183q
Appliances, Food, Clothing, Furniture, BeddingExempt items “reasonably necessary.”C.G.S. § 52-352b(a)
Burial PlotFully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(c)
Health Aids NeededFully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(f)
Motor VehicleUp to \$1,500 equity.C.G.S. § 52-352b(j)
Proceeds for Damaged Exempt PropertyExempt to extent original property was exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(q)
Residential Utility & Security DepositsFor 1 residence, fully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(l)
Wedding & Engagement RingsFully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(k)
Aid to Blind, Aged, Disabled, AFDCFully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(d)
Crime Victims’ CompensationFully exempt.C.G.S. §§ 52-352b(o), 54-213
Social SecurityFully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(g)
Unemployment CompensationFully exempt.C.G.S. §§ 31-272(c), 52-352b(g)
Veterans’ BenefitsFully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(g)
Vietnam Veterans’ Death BenefitsFully exempt.C.G.S. § 27-140i
Wages from Earnings Incentive ProgramFully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(d)
Workers’ CompensationFully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(g)
Arms, Military Equipment, Uniforms, Instruments (Military Personnel)Fully exempt.C.G.S. § 52-352b(i)
Tools, Books, Instruments, Farm AnimalsExempt if needed for principal trade or occupation.C.G.S. § 52-352b(b)
WagesMinimum 75% of earned but unpaid wages exempt.C.G.S. § 52-361a(f)Some exceptions for child/spousal support orders.
Wildcard\$1,000 of any property.C.G.S. § 52-352b(r)

Disclaimer

The exemptions provided here are for general informational purposes and may not reflect the latest legislative changes or court decisions. This is not legal advice. Consult a licensed Connecticut bankruptcy attorney to confirm current amounts and applicability to your individual case.