March 14, 2019
When you file for bankruptcy, you’re allowed to use bankruptcy exemptions to protect property you’ll need to work and maintain a home, such as a modest car, household belongings, clothing, and a small number of tools for your business or profession.
A wildcard exemption comes in handy because it allows you to save property that you wouldn’t be able to protect otherwise. For instance, you might use it on sentimental yet valuable property, such as your grandmother’s player piano, or your childhood collection of baseball cards.
In this article, you'll learn how the wildcard exemption works to save the property that’s important to you.
(Not sure which bankruptcy chapter to file? Start with What Are the Differences Between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy?)
How Bankruptcy Exemptions Work
Each state has a set of state exemptions. Some states provide a choice between the state and the federal exemptions, but you can’t mix and match between the sets.
Most exemptions protect particular property. For example, if your state has a motor vehicle exemption, you’ll be able to use the amount of that exemption towards your car or another motor vehicle, but not another asset type. For instance, you couldn’t use your leftover motor vehicle exemption to exempt money in your bank account.
Here are a few federal bankruptcy exemptions (check your state exemption laws):
What will happen to property you can’t exempt? It will depend on the bankruptcy chapter you file.
(Find out more in Bankruptcy Exemptions.)
A Wildcard Exemption Lets You Choose the Property You Protect
A true wildcard exemption isn’t limited to a specific property type. You can use it to exempt any property of your choosing. For instance, you’ll decide whether to use it on your car, money in the bank, expensive artwork, or any other asset you own. You can also split it between multiple assets, or combine it with other exemptions.
Example. Your state has a $3,000 motor vehicle exemption and a $5,000 wildcard exemption. If you own two cars worth a total of $8,000, you can use the motor vehicle exemption to exempt $3,000 of one car, and the wildcard exemption to exempt the remaining $5,000 in equity. Without the wildcard, the Chapter 7 trustee would likely sell both vehicles, pay you the $3,000 exemption amount, and use the balance to pay creditors. In a Chapter 13 case, you would have to pay for the nonexempt portion in your repayment plan.
How Much Is the Wildcard Exemption?
Not all states have wildcard exemptions, but for those that do, the value will vary. You’ll find a wildcard in the federal bankruptcy exemption scheme, too.
Talk to a Bankruptcy Attorney
One of the most costly bankruptcy mistakes you can make is not understanding what will happen to your property. If you aren’t sure, you should consult with a bankruptcy lawyer.