Tennessee requires filers to use the Tennessee exemption system (the federal bankruptcy exemptions are unavailable here), although federal nonbankruptcy exemptions can still apply. References below reflect your provided amounts—always confirm with Tenn. Code Ann. or a local attorney for updates.
Spouses filing jointly can typically double an exemption if both own the property, unless otherwise noted.
| Exemption Type | Amount | Statute (Check Local Code) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homestead | $5,000 (single); $7,500 (joint owners); $12,500 for 62+ (individual); $20,000 for married with one 62+; $25,000 for married both 62+; $25,000 for individual with a minor child. Possible doubling for married couples with joint custody. | Tenn. Code Ann. §§ ... | Life estates/leaseholds (2-15 yrs). Exact doubling rules vary—verify if both spouses qualify. |
| Personal Property | Bible, schoolbooks, pictures, portraits, clothing, burial plot (1 acre), health aids, lost earnings, personal injury up to $7,500, wrongful death up to $10,000 (max $15,000 total for personal injury/wrongful death/crime victims). | Tenn. Code Ann. §§ ... | Some categories can’t be doubled. Check amounts for each sub-item. |
| Wages & Other | Minimum 75% of earned but unpaid wages + $2.50/week per child; judge may allow more for low-income; alimony owed 30 days before filing; property of business partnership is protected from individual partner’s creditors. | Tenn. Code Ann. §§ ... | Wages partially exempt, partnership property can’t be seized for partner’s personal debts. |
| Tools of Trade | Implements, books, tools up to $1,900 | Tenn. Code Ann. §§ ... | May be doubled if spouses own them together. |
| Insurance | Accident, health, disability benefits; fraternal society benefits; homeowners’ proceeds up to $5,000; life or annuity for spouse/children/dependents exempt from all claims. | Tenn. Code Ann. §§ ... | Confirm each policy’s coverage and limits. Some amounts might differ for older or newer policies. |
| Public Benefits | Aid to blind/disabled, crime victims’ comp to $5,000, local public assistance, old-age assistance, Social Security, unemployment, veterans’ benefits, workers’ comp. | Tenn. Code Ann. §§ ... | Typically fully exempt. Some sub-limits (like crime victims up to $5,000). |
| Wildcard | $10,000 on any personal property | Tenn. Code Ann. §§ ... | Generally used if other exemptions don’t cover an item or to increase coverage. |
Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13: In Chapter 7, the trustee may sell nonexempt assets for creditor payment. In Chapter 13, you keep your property but pay unsecured creditors the nonexempt value over 3-5 years.
You must live in Tennessee for 730 days (2 years) before filing to use these exemptions; otherwise, you might use your prior state’s laws. Also, a separate “cap” can limit a homestead if you’ve owned your home less than 40 months. Confirm specifics locally.
Important: Exemptions change periodically. Always check if statutes and amounts are current. Verify with a bankruptcy attorney to confirm that these exemptions still apply.