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Nevada Bankruptcy Laws

Nevada has opted out of federal bankruptcy exemptions — debtors must use state exemptions only. Nevada offers one of the most generous homestead exemptions in the nation at $605,000 (requires recorded homestead declaration). The $10,000 wildcard can be stacked on other exemptions. Nevada has no state income tax, eliminating concerns about state tax refund clawbacks in bankruptcy.

Last verified: 2026-02-25

Filing Requirements

Means Test Median Income (2025–2026)

Approximate annual median: 1 person ~$61,000; 2 persons ~$74,000; 3 persons ~$82,000; 4 persons ~$106,000. Households below the median qualify for Chapter 7 without the full means test. No state income tax eliminates tax refund clawback concerns.

Key Nevada Statutes

Homestead ExemptionNRS 21.090(1)(l)

Protects up to $605,000 in home equity — one of the most generous in the nation. Requires a recorded homestead declaration with the county recorder prior to filing. If the home was acquired within 1,215 days before filing, federal law caps the exemption at $214,000.

Motor Vehicle ExemptionNRS 21.090(1)(f)

Protects up to $15,000 in motor vehicle equity. Unlimited if the vehicle is disability-equipped.

Wildcard ExemptionNRS 21.090(1)(z)

Protects up to $10,000 in any personal property (no real estate). Can be stacked on top of other exemptions.

Personal Property ExemptionsNRS 21.090(1)

Libraries/art/musical instruments/jewelry: $5,000. Professional library/equipment/supplies: $10,000. Mining/prospecting tools: $4,500. One firearm: unlimited. Retirement accounts: up to $500,000 (SEP/IRA).

Wage Garnishment ProtectionNRS 21.090

The greater of 82% of disposable earnings (if gross weekly wage is $770 or less), 75% (if over $770), or 50x the federal minimum hourly wage is exempt from garnishment.

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change — verify current statutes at Nevada Legislature — NRS Chapter 21. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney.

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