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Bankruptcy in Vermont: Exemptions and Filing Guide

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

Data last updated: Jan 15, 2025

Key Takeaways

  • Homestead exemption: $125,000.
  • Vehicle exemption: $2,500.
  • Federal exemptions available — you can choose state or federal.
  • Attorney fees: $1,200–$2,000 (Ch. 7) / $3,000–$4,500 (Ch. 13) typical.
$125,000 Homestead exemption
$2,500 Vehicle exemption
Yes Federal option
$338 (Chapter 7) / $313 (Chapter 13) Filing fee

Vermont Bankruptcy Exemptions

  • Homestead$125,000
  • Vehicle$2,500
  • Personal property$2,500 household goods; $500 jewelry
  • Wildcard$400 plus $7,000 unused homestead
  • Federal exemptionsAvailable (can choose)

Means Test: Vermont Median Income

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

  • 1 person$60,800
  • 2 people$75,400
  • 3 people$86,200
  • 4 people$101,600

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 districtsDistrict of Vermont

Vermont bankruptcy court

Related Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the homestead exemption in Vermont?

    Vermont provides a $125,000 homestead exemption for your primary residence.

  • Can I choose federal exemptions in Vermont?

    Yes. Vermont allows debtors to choose between state and federal bankruptcy exemptions.

  • Does Vermont have a wildcard exemption?

    Yes. Vermont provides a $400 general wildcard plus up to $7,000 of unused homestead exemption to protect other property.

  • What is the filing process in Vermont?

    Vermont has one federal district court. Cases are typically filed in Burlington and handled efficiently due to the state's smaller caseload.

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.

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