What Creditors Can't Take in Washington
Money, home and vehicle exemptions that protect your property from creditors in Washington.
Short answer: For consumer debt, $2,000 in bank accounts, savings and securities is automatically protected ($1,000 automatic and up to $2,500 total for private student loan debt; $500 for other debts). RCW 6.15.010(1)(d)(iii)
| Money protected in a bank account | For consumer debt, $2,000 in bank accounts, savings and securities is automatically protected ($1,000 automatic and up to $2,500 total for private student loan debt; $500 for other debts). These amounts are to be inflation-adjusted every three years starting July 1, 2027. Section last amended 2025 (c. 391). Source: RCW 6.15.010(1)(d)(iii) |
|---|---|
| Homestead exemption | The greater of $125,000 or the county median sale price of a single-family home in the preceding calendar year (using Washington Center for Real Estate Research data). Amended 2021 (c. 290) to add the county-median measure. Source: RCW 6.13.030 |
| Vehicle exemption | One or more motor vehicles up to $15,000 in total value. Source: RCW 6.15.010(1)(d)(iv) |
Where to get help in Washington
- Washington State Department of Licensing (licenses collection agencies); Washington Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division
- File a complaint or claim
More Washington debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Washington
- Wage Garnishment in Washington
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Washington
- Medical Debt Protections in Washington
- All Washington debt & collections rules
FAQ
How much money in a bank account is protected from creditors in Washington?
For consumer debt, $2,000 in bank accounts, savings and securities is automatically protected ($1,000 automatic and up to $2,500 total for private student loan debt; $500 for other debts). These amounts are to be inflation-adjusted every three years starting July 1, 2027.
What is the homestead exemption in Washington?
The greater of $125,000 or the county median sale price of a single-family home in the preceding calendar year (using Washington Center for Real Estate Research data).
Can a creditor take my car in Washington?
One or more motor vehicles up to $15,000 in total value.
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.