An independent legal information resource. Not a law firm. Not legal advice.

FreeNetLaw Consumer Legal Reference

Bankruptcy in Texas: Exemptions and Filing Guide

State-specific bankruptcy exemptions and filing information for Texas. These exemptions determine what property you can keep when filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy.

Data last updated: Jan 15, 2025

Key Takeaways

  • Homestead exemption: Unlimited value (up to 10 acres urban, 100 acres rural single / 200 acres family).
  • Vehicle exemption: $2,500 per licensed household member (one vehicle each).
  • Must use state exemptions (no federal option).
  • Attorney fees: $1,200–$2,000 (Ch. 7) / $3,000–$4,500 (Ch. 13) typical.
Unlimited value (up to 10 acres urban, 100 acres rural single / 200 acres family) Homestead exemption
$2,500 per licensed household member (one vehicle each) Vehicle exemption
No Federal option
$338 (Chapter 7) / $313 (Chapter 13) Filing fee

Texas Bankruptcy Exemptions

  • HomesteadUnlimited value (up to 10 acres urban, 100 acres rural single / 200 acres family)
  • Vehicle$2,500 per licensed household member (one vehicle each)
  • Personal property$100,000 single / $200,000 family in personal property
  • WildcardNone (generous personal property exemption serves similar function)
  • Federal exemptionsNot available

Means Test: Texas Median Income

To qualify for Chapter 7 in Texas, your income must be below the state median or you must pass the means test showing no disposable income for creditors.

  • 1 person$59,800
  • 2 people$74,200
  • 3 people$82,600
  • 4 people$96,800

Filing Costs

  • Court filing fee$338 (Chapter 7) / $313 (Chapter 13)
  • Typical attorney fee$1,200–$2,000 (Ch. 7) / $3,000–$4,500 (Ch. 13)
  • Court districtsNorthern, Southern, Eastern, and Western Districts of Texas

Texas bankruptcy court

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is the Texas homestead exemption really unlimited?

    Yes, in dollar value. Texas provides an unlimited homestead exemption but limits the land to 10 acres in an urban area or 100 acres for a single person (200 for a family) in rural areas.

  • What is the personal property exemption in Texas?

    Texas allows $100,000 for individuals or $200,000 for families in aggregate personal property, making it one of the most generous states.

  • Can I use federal exemptions in Texas?

    No. Texas requires the use of state exemptions, which are among the most debtor-friendly in the country.

  • Does Texas have a separate vehicle exemption?

    Yes. Each licensed household member can exempt one vehicle. The per-vehicle exemption is technically $2,500, but the personal property exemption can cover additional equity.

Legal Disclaimer: FreeNetLaw provides general legal information, not legal advice. The information on this site is not a substitute for consultation with a licensed attorney. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify information with official sources and consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.

Sources