Public Guide
Georgia Bankruptcy Exemptions: Framework and 2026 Homestead Update
General information about Georgia exemption law, the July 2026 homestead amendment, Schedule C, liens, and official court sources.
Georgia law lists property interests that may be claimed as exempt in bankruptcy under O.C.G.A. § 44-13-100. Federal domicile rules determine whether Georgia law applies to a particular case.
Effective July 1, 2026, Georgia increased the exemption for a debtor's primary residence from $21,500 to $50,000 for an individual and from $43,000 to $100,000 for married debtors filing jointly. The statute provides inflation updates beginning July 1, 2031. The filing date and current statute therefore matter.
Georgia law also addresses motor vehicles, household goods, jewelry, tools of trade, benefits, retirement interests, support, personal-injury recoveries, and a limited unused-exemption or “wildcard” structure. Definitions, dollar limits, ownership interests, and statutory exceptions apply.
Exemptions are claimed on Schedule C. A discharge ordinarily does not eliminate a valid lien, although the Bankruptcy Code provides separate procedures for certain lien-avoidance questions.
Official Sources
- Middle District of Georgia: 2026 homestead exemption announcement
- Northern District of Georgia: What are exemptions?
- U.S. Courts: Bankruptcy forms
This page provides general information and does not determine which law applies, the amount available, lien treatment, or whether property is protected.