What Creditors Can't Take in Pennsylvania
Money, home and vehicle exemptions that protect your property from creditors in Pennsylvania.
Short answer: A general $300 exemption applies to any property, including money in a bank. Separately, a writ served on a bank does not attach (without a court order) the first $10,000 in an account that receives recurring electronic deposits of exempt funds such as Social Security. 42 Pa.C.S. 8123(a); Pa.R.C.P. 3111.1
| Money protected in a bank account | A general $300 exemption applies to any property, including money in a bank. Separately, a writ served on a bank does not attach (without a court order) the first $10,000 in an account that receives recurring electronic deposits of exempt funds such as Social Security. Rule 3111.1 text: https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/231/chapter3000/chap3000toc.html |
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| Homestead exemption | Pennsylvania's list of exemptions from execution does not include a homestead exemption. The $300 general exemption may be applied to any property, including real estate. |
| Vehicle exemption | Pennsylvania's list of exemptions from execution does not include a separate motor vehicle exemption; the $300 general exemption can be applied to a vehicle. |
Where to get help in Pennsylvania
More Pennsylvania debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Pennsylvania
- Wage Garnishment in Pennsylvania
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Pennsylvania
- All Pennsylvania debt & collections rules
FAQ
How much money in a bank account is protected from creditors in Pennsylvania?
A general $300 exemption applies to any property, including money in a bank. Separately, a writ served on a bank does not attach (without a court order) the first $10,000 in an account that receives recurring electronic deposits of exempt funds such as Social Security.
What is the homestead exemption in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania's list of exemptions from execution does not include a homestead exemption. The $300 general exemption may be applied to any property, including real estate.
Can a creditor take my car in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania's list of exemptions from execution does not include a separate motor vehicle exemption; the $300 general exemption can be applied to a vehicle.
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.