Article
Exemptions in Pennsylvania
Exemptions in Pennsylvania
While Pennsylvania does not have wage garnishment, see 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 8127, Pennsylvania is the least generous of all the states when it comes to exemptions. There is no homestead exemption in Pennsylvania like there is in other states. Nor is there an exemption for a motor vehicle. To claim these exemptions, a debtor would have to file bankruptcy and select the federal bankruptcy exemptions.
Pennsylvania’s exemptions are found in two statutes, 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 8123 and § 8124. Under Section 8123, a debtor can exempt up to $300 in cash or in other property worth up to $300. In addition to the $300, a debtor can exempt clothes, uniforms, a Bible, sewing machine, retirement funds, unemployment, disability and other certain types of insurance proceeds under section 8124.
Again, you are not necessarily out of luck if you are not filing bankruptcy. Certain jointly owned or liened assets would be exempt. Social Security and other types of income may be exempt from seizure/garnishment.
Copyright (c) 2012 by Rachel Lea Hunter
All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced or utilized in any form, other than for the reader's sole personal use, without permission in writing from the author.
NOTICE: The information in these articles is provided for general informational purposes only as a public service. You are advised to check for changes to current law and to consult with a qualified attorney in your state of residence on any legal issue. The use of this material does not create an attorney-client relationship with the Rachel Lea Hunter Law Office. The material in this website may be considered advertising under applicable rules.