Bergen County is the most populous county in New Jersey, located in the northeastern corner of the state. It includes suburbs like Hackensack, Paramus, and Teaneck.
New Jersey state exemptions apply (no federal option). No homestead exemption. Personal property: $1,000. Wages: 90% exempt under 250% poverty. Retirement: fully exempt. Life insurance: exempt. New Jersey exemptions are among the least generous in the nation.
Exemptions determine what property you can keep in bankruptcy. See the full exemptions guide.
Bergen County cases are filed in the District of New Jersey, Newark Vicinage. The courthouse is at 50 Walnut St, Newark, NJ 07102. Bergen County residents typically drive 20-40 minutes south to the Newark courthouse.
New Jersey has no homestead exemption and limited personal property exemptions ($1,000). Retirement accounts are fully exempt, and 90% of wages are exempt for lower-income filers. Bergen County's high property values make Chapter 13 particularly important for homeowners who want to keep their homes.
Many Bergen County residents benefit from Chapter 13 because it protects all property (including homes with substantial equity) while you repay debts. Without a homestead exemption, Chapter 7 could put your Bergen County home at risk if you have equity above the minimal personal property exemption.
Use the free 1328(f) screener to check whether a prior discharge affects your eligibility.
Free Discharge Screener