Oregon allows debtors to choose **Oregon**-specific exemptions or the **federal** set (Oregon is a “dual system” state). However, the data below focuses on Oregon state exemptions. Some references suggest certain amounts can bedoubled if both spouses file together, as noted by “*” in your table.
Always confirm the latest amounts and any interpretational details with a licensed Oregon bankruptcy attorney or the official Oregon Revised Statutes before relying on these figures.
| Type of Property | Exemption Description | Limit on Amount | Statute(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Books, Pictures, Musical Instruments, Art Objects, Collections | Protects personal items of limited value (like reading materials, family photos, or small art objects). | \$600 (doubled if joint*) | ORS 18.345(1)(a) |
| Wearing Apparel, Jewelry | Clothing and personal adornments (some references combine them). | \$1,800 (doubled if joint*) | ORS 18.345(1)(b) |
| Tools of the Trade | Implements, tools, or equipment necessary for one’s occupation. | \$5,000 (doubled if joint*) | ORS 18.345(1)(c) |
| Motor Vehicle | Equity in one vehicle (car, truck, or similar). | \$3,000 | ORS 18.345(1)(d) |
| Domestic Animals | Pets or livestock with limited value. | \$1,000 | ORS 18.345(1)(e) |
| Household Goods, Furnishings, Provisions (Food & Fuel for 60 days) | Typical household items (furniture, appliances) plus essential supplies for 2 months. | \$3,000 | ORS 18.345(1)(f) |
| Spousal Support, Child Support | Domestic support payments | 100% exempt | ORS 18.345(1)(i) |
| Bodily Injury Claims | Compensation for personal bodily injury (excl. punitive, certain others). | \$10,000 (doubled if joint*) | ORS 18.345(1)(k) |
| Earned Income Credit | Federal or state EITC from tax returns | 100% exempt | ORS 18.345(1)(n) |
| General Personal Property (Wildcard) | Exemption for any property not otherwise covered | \$400 (doubled if joint*) | ORS 18.345(1)(o) |
Single Debtor: \$40,000 of equity
Married (Joint Debtors): \$50,000 of equity
This applies to your personal residence, whether a home, condo, or manufactured home on owned land. (ORS 18.395)
If your mobile home is on your own land:
(ORS 18.428(1))
Generally, 75% of your net wages are exempt. (ORS 18.385)
| Type | Details | Statutes |
|---|---|---|
| One Rifle/Shotgun + One Pistol | Combined value up to \$1,000 | ORS 18.362 |
| Pension Plans | Generally 100% exempt | ORS 18.358 |
| Social Security Benefits | Fully exempt | ORS 23.166; 42 U.S.C. § 407 |
| Aid to Disabled Persons | Fully exempt | ORS 412.610 |
| Certain Annuity Policy Benefits | Partially exempt | ORS 743.049 |
| Burial Lots sold by Non-profit Corp | Fully exempt | ORS 65.870 |
| Fraternal Benefit/Society Benefits | Fully exempt | ORS 748.207 |
| Health & Disability Benefits | Fully exempt | ORS 743.050 |
| Life Insurance Proceeds | Fully exempt | ORS 743.046, 743.047 |
| Unemployment Compensation | Fully exempt (though 75% if the judgment is for a support obligation). | ORS 657.855 |
| Veteran’s Benefits & Loans | 100% exempt | ORS 18.345(1)(m) |
| Veteran’s State Loan Funds | Fully exempt | ORS 407.595 |
| Vocational Rehabilitation Payments | Fully exempt | ORS 344.580 |
| Workers’ Compensation Benefits | Fully exempt, 75% if the judgment is for a support obligation | ORS 656.234 |
| Wages on Deposit in Bank | 75% of wages are exempt, up to \$7,500 | ORS 18.385 |
| College Savings Accounts | Fully exempt | ORS 348.863(2) |
Those items marked with “*” in your original chart indicate amounts that can be doubled for joint filers.
To use Oregon’s exemptions, you must live in Oregon for at least 730 days (2 years) before filing. If you haven’t, you may have to use your previous state’s exemptions. (11 U.S.C. § 522(b)(3)(A))
For the homestead, a separate federal rule can cap your homestead to \$189,050 if you’ve owned it for fewer than 40 months before filing, subject to exceptions.
In a Chapter 7 case, the trustee may sell nonexempt assets to pay creditors. In a Chapter 13case, you keep all property but must pay unsecured creditors at least the value of your nonexempt assets over 3-5 years.
This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Exemption amounts, statutes, and interpretations can change. Always consult a licensed Oregon bankruptcy attorney or refer to the official Oregon Revised Statutes for the most current and accurate information.