What Creditors Can't Take in Wisconsin
Money, home and vehicle exemptions that protect your property from creditors in Wisconsin.
Short answer: Up to $5,000 in total in depository accounts for the debtor's personal (not business) use. Wis. Stat. 815.18(3)(k)
| Money protected in a bank account | Up to $5,000 in total in depository accounts for the debtor's personal (not business) use. Source: Wis. Stat. 815.18(3)(k) |
|---|---|
| Homestead exemption | $75,000 in a homestead occupied by the owner; each spouse may claim up to $75,000 in a jointly owned homestead. Sale proceeds stay exempt up to $75,000 for 2 years if held to buy another home. Source: Wis. Stat. 815.20(1) |
| Vehicle exemption | Motor vehicles up to $4,000 in total value, plus any unused part of the $12,000 consumer goods exemption. Source: Wis. Stat. 815.18(3)(g), (d) |
Where to get help in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (licenses collection agencies; administers the Wisconsin Consumer Act)
- File a complaint or claim
More Wisconsin debt & collections
- Statute of Limitations on Debt in Wisconsin
- Wage Garnishment in Wisconsin
- How to Respond to a Debt Collection Lawsuit in Wisconsin
- All Wisconsin debt & collections rules
FAQ
How much money in a bank account is protected from creditors in Wisconsin?
Up to $5,000 in total in depository accounts for the debtor's personal (not business) use.
What is the homestead exemption in Wisconsin?
$75,000 in a homestead occupied by the owner; each spouse may claim up to $75,000 in a jointly owned homestead. Sale proceeds stay exempt up to $75,000 for 2 years if held to buy another home.
Can a creditor take my car in Wisconsin?
Motor vehicles up to $4,000 in total value, plus any unused part of the $12,000 consumer goods exemption.
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.