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 Property | Exemption Description | Statute / Code | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Homestead | Real 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 Benefits | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 38a-637 | |
Health or Disability Benefits | Fully 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 / Avails | Generally 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) | |
Alimony | Exempt to the extent wages are exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(n) | |
Child Support | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(h) | |
Farm Partnership Animals & Feed | If at least 50% of partners are family members, “reasonably required” feed/animals are exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352d | |
Property of Business Partnership | Exempt from individual partner’s creditors. | C.G.S. § 34-63 | |
ERISA-Qualified Benefits | Exempt to extent wages are exempt (only payments being received). | C.G.S. § 52-352b(m) | |
Municipal Employees | Exempt pension benefits. | C.G.S. § 7-446 | |
Probate Judges & Employees | Exempt retirement payments. | C.G.S. § 45-29o | |
State Employees | Exempt benefits. | C.G.S. §§ 5-171, 5-192w | |
Teachers | Exempt pension benefits. | C.G.S. § 10-183q | |
Appliances, Food, Clothing, Furniture, Bedding | Exempt items “reasonably necessary.” | C.G.S. § 52-352b(a) | |
Burial Plot | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(c) | |
Health Aids Needed | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(f) | |
Motor Vehicle | Up to \$1,500 equity. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(j) | |
Proceeds for Damaged Exempt Property | Exempt to extent original property was exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(q) | |
Residential Utility & Security Deposits | For 1 residence, fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(l) | |
Wedding & Engagement Rings | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(k) | |
Aid to Blind, Aged, Disabled, AFDC | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(d) | |
Crime Victims’ Compensation | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. §§ 52-352b(o), 54-213 | |
Social Security | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(g) | |
Unemployment Compensation | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. §§ 31-272(c), 52-352b(g) | |
Veterans’ Benefits | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(g) | |
Vietnam Veterans’ Death Benefits | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 27-140i | |
Wages from Earnings Incentive Program | Fully exempt. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(d) | |
Workers’ Compensation | Fully 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 Animals | Exempt if needed for principal trade or occupation. | C.G.S. § 52-352b(b) | |
Wages | Minimum 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) |
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.