Filing for Bankruptcy in California

A step‑by‑step California bankruptcy guide covering eligibility, updated means‑test figures, and a 703 vs. 704 exemption guide for protecting essential property.

By , Attorney University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law
Updated 10/30/2025

California bankruptcy exemptions let you keep essential property when you file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, including homestead, vehicle, and a wildcard, subject to California's rules. This guide explains California bankruptcy exemptions, filing for bankruptcy in California, and when Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 makes sense.

You'll learn what property is protected, how the means test affects eligibility, and what paperwork and deadlines to expect in California courts. If you're weighing debt relief options, use this overview to decide whether to file, what you can keep, and how to prepare the right forms.

California Bankruptcy: Who Qualifies and How It Works

If you're struggling financially and aren't sure what to do, filing for bankruptcy in California can provide a structured, lawful way to rebuild your finances. Economic changes are making it increasingly difficult for American families to weather job losses, illnesses, and other emergencies, leading to a rise in bankruptcy filings nationwide.

How to File Bankruptcy in California: Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13

These are the key factors to help you decide whether to file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 in California.

Chapter 7 "Liquidation" Bankruptcy Chapter 13 "Repayment Plan" Bankruptcy Citations

Duration to Discharge

 Three to six months. Three to five years. 11 U.S.C. § 727(a); § 1322(d)

Filing Fee

 $338 (subject to change) $313 (subject to change) 28 U.S.C. § 1930; as of October 2025 (subject to change)

Potential Property Loss

 Yes. Nonexempt assets are sold for creditors. No. Filers pay the value of nonexempt assets through the plan and keep the property. 11 U.S.C. § 541, § 726, § 1322(b)(2)

Means Test Required

Yes. Income can't exceed limits; filers must not have disposable income to repay debts.

 No. However, filers must earn enough to pay the required Chapter 13 plan amount. 11 U.S.C. § 707(b); § 1325(b)

Debt Limits

 None. Unsecured $526,700; secured $1,580,125.

11 U.S.C. § 109(e); April 1, 2025 - March 31, 2028

Best For

 Lower income, limited assets.

Regular income, want to avoid property loss.

 11 U.S.C. § 101(10A); § 109(e)

Biggest Benefits

 Erases most debts quickly without requiring repayment.

Saves homes and cars by catching up on payments over time; can pay to keep property that would be lost in Chapter 7; can repay nondischargeable debts over time.

 11 U.S.C. § 362 (automatic stay)

Main Downsides

 Property not covered by exemptions is lost.

The repayment plan requires payment of all disposable income to creditors for years, with court oversight. Payment isn't always affordable.

 11 U.S.C. § 727(a); § 1307

Mortgage and Car Payments

 No catch-up for missed payments, risk of property loss to the lender. Can catch up on missed payments in the plan and keep a house, car, or other property serving as collateral. 11 U.S.C. § 1322(b)(5)

Nondischargeable Debts

Debts that aren't eliminated include child support, many taxes, and student loans. Debt will remain after bankruptcy.

 Nondischargeable debts are repaid in the plan. 11 U.S.C. § 523(a)

Previous Chapter 7 Filings

 Eight years after prior Ch. 7; six after Ch. 13

Four years after Ch. 7; two years after Ch. 13

 11 U.S.C. § 727(a)(8); § 1328(f)

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy California: Fast Debt Relief

If your primary goal is to erase debt fast, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the best option. It eliminates unsecured debts, such as credit cards and medical bills, typically within a few months. However, you could lose property exceeding California's exemption limits because the Chapter 7 trustee can sell that property to repay creditors.

Who Qualifies for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in California

The steps you'll need to take will depend on whether your income falls below or above your state's median income. The U.S. Trustee Program "Means Testing" page has current amounts.

Income Below Median

If your gross yearly family income is below California's median income for your family size, you qualify. For a filing between November 1, 2025, and May 14, 2026, you would be eligible at or below the following limits:

  • $77,221 for a one-person household
  • $100,161 for a two-person household
  • $113,553 for a three-person household, and
  • $135,505 for a four-person household.

Income Above Median

If your gross family income is higher than the median, an additional "means test" calculation is necessary to determine your eligibility. This test lets you subtract expenses from your income and determines whether you have anything left to pay creditors.

Take the bankruptcy eligibility quiz. Find out about particular issues and whether you qualify by taking the Chapter 7 bankruptcy quiz.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy in California: Repayment Plans to Keep Your Home

Chapter 13 creates a repayment plan lasting three to five years. Most people pay a minimal amount toward debts they can discharge (erase).

Chapter 13 vs. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy in California

Chapter 13 can help prevent foreclosure or repossession, allowing filers to keep assets like homes and cars while catching up on missed mortgage or vehicle payments. Because Chapter 7 doesn't have a repayment plan, you can't use Chapter 7 to catch up on payments, and most people lose their home or car if they file when they're behind.

Chapter 13 Income Requirements and Eligibility in California

A fundamental requirement for Chapter 13 is having a regular income source to fund your repayment plan. Also, your total debt must fall within specific limits, which are updated periodically (check the chart above for current amounts).

Try the payment calculator. Estimate your Chapter 13 repayment plan in minutes using the Chapter 13 payment calculator.

California Bankruptcy Exemptions (703 vs. 704)

You keep assets protected by specific bankruptcy exemptions. In Chapter 7, nonexempt property is sold for the creditors. In Chapter 13, you can keep nonexempt property by paying its value in your repayment plan.

You can choose between two separate California exemption schemes, § 703 exemptions or § 704, but you must choose one system. You can't mix and match exemptions between systems.

California 703 and 704 State Exemptions Table

Exemption

 703 Exemptions 704 Exemptions

Homestead Residential Property or Wildcard
  • Homestead exemption up to the greater of the countywide median sale price for a single‑family home in the prior calendar year, capped at $600,000, or $300,000. Check these figures with a local bankruptcy attorney. Some authorities suggest they are $361,113 and $722,151, based on annual inflation adjustments.
  • Homestead can include a house, a mobile home, a boat, or a condominium. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code §§ 704.710, 704.730.
Motor Vehicles
  • $8,625 in one motor vehicle. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 703.140(b).
  • $8,625 in any combination of aggregate equity in motor vehicles.
  • Proceeds of sale or insurance are exempt for 90 days. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 704.010.
Personal Property
  • Household furnishings, goods, wearing apparel, appliances, books, animals, crops, musical instruments, up to $825 per item.
  • Jewelry up to $2,175.
  • Any additional property up to $1,950.
  • Reasonably necessary health aids. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 703.140(b).
  • Household furnishings and effects "ordinarily and reasonably necessary" (exceptions for items of "extraordinary value").
  • Up to $4,400 for materials to repair or maintain residence; reasonably necessary health aids.
  • Up to $10,950 for jewelry, heirlooms, and works of art. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code §§ 704.020, 704.030, 704.040, 704.050.
Trade Implements
  • $10,950 for tools of the trade. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 703.140.
  • Up to $10,950 if used professionally by debtor or spouse.
  • $21,900 if used jointly in the same business.
  • Can include tools, implements, materials, uniforms, furnishings, books, equipment, one commercial vehicle (limited to $4,850 if used by debtor and $9,700 if used jointly), and one vessel. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 704.060.
Alimony, Support, Separate Maintenance
  • Exempt to the extent reasonably necessary for support.Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 703.140(b)(10)(D).
  • Exempt to the extent reasonably necessary for support. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 704.111.
Claims for Negligence or Tortious Conduct —
  • Cause of action for personal injury or wrongful death is exempt.
  • Awards are exempt to the extent necessary for support (subject to exceptions and wage‑garnishment‑style limits for periodic payments). Cal. Civ. Proc. Code §§ 704.140, 704.150.

Crime Victims' Compensation
  • Exempt. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 703.140(b)(11)(A).
 —

Insurance Benefits
  • Aggregate interests in accrued dividend or interest or loan value of unmatured life insurance contracts up to $19,625.
  • Additional exemptions for unmatured contracts.
  • Exemptions for disability, unemployment, Social Security, veterans, disability, and retirement benefits. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 703.140(b).
  • Unmatured life insurance policies (not loan value) exempt without claim.
  • Aggregate loan value of unmatured policies is exempt up to $17,525.
  • Benefits from matured policies are exempt to the extent necessary for support.
  • Health and disability benefits. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code §§ 704.100, 704.130.

Pensions & Retirement Benefits
  • Benefits under various public and private retirement plans are exempt, except for judgments for child or spousal support. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 703.140(b)(10).
  • Tax-exempt and qualified retirement plans—federal cap for IRAs is $1,711,975. 11 U.S.C. §§ 522(d)(10)(E),(12), (n).
  • Public and private retirement plan benefits are exempt (subject to support judgments). Cal. Civ. Proc. Code §§ 704.110, 704.114, 704.115; Cal. Gov't Code §§ 21255, 31452, 31913, 32210; Cal. Pub. Util. Code §§ 12337, 25337, 28896, 50146, 95836, 98196.
  • Tax-exempt and qualified retirement plans—federal cap for IRAs is $1,711,975. 11 U.S.C. §§ 522(d)(10)(E),(12), (n).

Public Assistance

 —
  • Public assistance benefits are exempt. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 704.170; Cal. Welf. & Inst. Code § 11002.

Wages
  • Debtor's aggregate interest in vacation credits or accrued or unused vacation pay, sick leave, family leave, or wages up to $8,625. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 703.140(b).
  • Maximum disposable earnings subject to levy: the lesser of 20% of weekly disposable earnings or 40% of the amount exceeding 48 times the minimum hourly wage.
  • Earnings necessary for support are exempt.
  • One‑half of disposable earnings plus any wage assignment for support exempt, with equitable division on motion. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code §§ 706.050, 706.051, 706.052.

Unemployment Compensation
  • Exempt except for judgments for child or spousal support. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 703.140(b)(10).
  • Exempt except from judgments for child or spousal support. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 704.120.

Workers' Compensation

 —
  • Exempt except as otherwise provided in the Labor Code.
  • Up to 25% of temporary disability benefits can be withheld for support payments. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 704.160; Cal. Lab. Code § 4901.

Fraternal Benefit Society Benefits

 —
  • Exempt. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 704.170.
Building Materials —
  • $4,400 in materials for improvement of principal residence. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 704.030.
Cemeteries and Burial Funds —
  • Family plots are exempt.
  • Land held for sale as cemetery plots isn't exempt. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 704.200.
Prisoners' Property —
  • Funds held in trust for a debtor confined in prison are exempt up to $2,175 (spouses can claim separately or combine). Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 704.090.
Partnership Property —
  • A partner is not a co-owner of partnership property. Cal. Corp. Code §§ 16501, 16503.
Trusts, Escrow, and Deposit Accounts —
  • Escrow and trust funds are exempt. Cal. Fin. Code § 17410.

Miscellaneous Benefits

 —
  • Relocation benefits from a public entity for displacement from a dwelling are exempt.
  • Financial aid for school expenses provided by an institution of higher education is exempt.
  • Vacation credits accumulated by state employees are exempt. Cal. Civ. Proc. Code §§ 704.113, 704.180, 704.190.

Step-by-Step: How to File for Bankruptcy in California

When you first file, both the Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 processes are similar.

Step 1. Complete Credit Counseling

Complete a U.S. Trustee-approved credit counseling course within 180 days before filing. Also, make sure you are prepared to file for bankruptcy by securing housing, transportation, and a bank account in good standing.

Step 2. Assemble Financial Documents

Gather all financial documents you'll need to complete and file the bankruptcy forms, including pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and debt lists (we've highlighted what you'll need below).

Step 3. File in the Correct California District

File your forms with the proper federal bankruptcy court, depending on where you live. California has four bankruptcy courts with multiple locations serving different geographical areas.

You'll find instructions for filing your paperwork, local rules, and more. Fees can be waived or paid in installments. Once you file, the automatic stay will go into effect. Almost all collection efforts, lawsuits, garnishments, and foreclosures stop when you file.

Step 4. Attend the 341 Meeting of Creditors

Attend this mandatory court-supervised session. After the 341 meeting, all filers complete the second required U.S. Trustee-approved course, debtor education. Chapter 13 filers must also attend a plan confirmation (approval) hearing and complete the repayment plan.

Step 5. Receive the Discharge

After fulfilling requirements, the court issues a discharge order that erases eligible debts.

Step 6. After Filing for Bankruptcy in California

After discharge, you'll want to maintain financial stability by reviewing your credit report and rebuilding credit. Maintaining emergency savings is another good way to avoid another bankruptcy.

Learn more details about bankruptcy and whether it's better to file for Chapter 7 or 13.

California Bankruptcy FAQs 2025

Can I keep my car if I file for bankruptcy in California?

You can keep a vehicle if your equity is within the exemption limit. If it's financed, you must be and stay current on payments in Chapter 7. You can catch up on missed payments and keep your car in Chapter 13.

Will I lose my house in bankruptcy in California?

As long as your home equity is exempt and you stay current on payments, you should be able to keep your house in Chapter 7. If you're behind on payments, Chapter 13 allows you to catch up and keep your home. Learn which chapter to file to keep your house.

Can I file bankruptcy again if I've filed before?

Yes, but bankruptcy waiting periods apply. You must wait eight years between Chapter 7 filings. The time is reduced to six years if you choose to file for Chapter 13 after filing for Chapter 7.

How much does bankruptcy cost?

You'll pay filing fees, counseling and debtor education course fees, as well as attorney costs, which vary according to the bankruptcy chapter and case complexity. A Chapter 7 case typically costs between $1,800 and $3,500. You'll likely pay $3,500 to $5,000 for Chapter 13. Chapter 7 costs must be paid in full before filing. However, legal fees can be included in the Chapter 13 plan.

How long does bankruptcy stay on my credit report?

Chapter 7 remains on your credit report for up to 10 years. Chapter 13 stays on your credit report for seven years. However, the impact diminishes over time, and many people see credit improvement within a year or two.

How long does Chapter 7 take in California?

Chapter 7 typically takes three to five months to complete. While you'll receive your discharge within that time, the case could remain open longer if the trustee needs to sell property or resolve litigation.

Can I file bankruptcy without a lawyer in California?

Many people can file for bankruptcy without a lawyer if they're willing to do the proper research. Simple Chapter 7 cases tend to be the most successful—those with dischargeable debts and minimal assets. Bankruptcy courts advise against filing a Chapter 13 without a lawyer because Chapter 13 cases are complicated and rarely successful without a lawyer's help.

What debts can't be discharged in a California bankruptcy

You won't be able to eliminate support obligations and most taxes. Student loans can be eliminated, but you must file a bankruptcy lawsuit and prove that paying the loans would be an "undue hardship." Learn more about nondischargeable debts in bankruptcy.

Did you know Nolo has made the law accessible for over fifty years? It's true, and we wholeheartedly encourage research and learning. However, online articles and resources can't address all bankruptcy issues and aren't written with the facts of your particular case in mind. The best way to protect your assets in bankruptcy is by hiring a local bankruptcy lawyer.

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