Bankruptcy by State
Bankruptcy in California
How California's bankruptcy exemptions, Chapter 7 income limits, and filing volume compare to the rest of the country.
Homestead exemption
$300,000-$750,000
#9 of 51
Vehicle exemption
$8,625
#7 of 51
Median income (1 person)
$79,253
Chapter 7 means-test threshold
Annual filings
54,783
Year 2025
California vs. national medians
National medians are calculated across all 51 states plus the District of Columbia. Ranks run from #1 (highest) to #51 (lowest). Where a state publishes a range or a conditional amount, the exemption is shown in full and ranked by its guaranteed minimum.
| Metric | California | National median | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homestead exemption | $300,000-$750,000 | $90,000 | #9 of 51 |
| Motor vehicle exemption | $8,625 | $7,250 | #7 of 51 |
| Median income (1-person household) | $79,253 | $71,745 | #12 of 51 |
| Median income (4-person household) | $139,071 | $126,058 | #14 of 51 |
| Annual bankruptcy filings | 54,783 | 8,707 | #1 of 51 |