What Creditors Can't Take in Hawaii
Money, home and vehicle exemptions that protect your property from creditors in Hawaii.
Short answer: No general dollar exemption for bank accounts in the personal property exemption statute. Pay for services in the 31 days before the proceeding is exempt, and exempt federal benefits keep their protection under federal law. HRS § 651-121
| Money protected in a bank account | No general dollar exemption for bank accounts in the personal property exemption statute. Pay for services in the 31 days before the proceeding is exempt, and exempt federal benefits keep their protection under federal law. Source: HRS § 651-121 |
|---|---|
| Homestead exemption | An interest in one parcel of real property in Hawaii worth up to $30,000 (over prior recorded liens) if the owner is head of a family or 65 or older; $20,000 for other owners. Only one exemption per parcel. Source: HRS § 651-92(a) |
| Vehicle exemption | One motor vehicle up to $2,575 in value over liens, measured by wholesale used-car guide prices. A vehicle needed for the debtor's trade or business may also be exempt as a tool of the trade. Source: HRS § 651-121(2), (3) |
Where to get help in Hawaii
- Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (collection agency registration; Regulated Industries Complaints Office)
- File a complaint or claim
More Hawaii debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Hawaii
- Wage Garnishment in Hawaii
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Hawaii
- All Hawaii debt & collections rules
FAQ
How much money in a bank account is protected from creditors in Hawaii?
No general dollar exemption for bank accounts in the personal property exemption statute. Pay for services in the 31 days before the proceeding is exempt, and exempt federal benefits keep their protection under federal law.
What is the homestead exemption in Hawaii?
An interest in one parcel of real property in Hawaii worth up to $30,000 (over prior recorded liens) if the owner is head of a family or 65 or older; $20,000 for other owners. Only one exemption per parcel.
Can a creditor take my car in Hawaii?
One motor vehicle up to $2,575 in value over liens, measured by wholesale used-car guide prices. A vehicle needed for the debtor's trade or business may also be exempt as a tool of the trade.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.