Homestead Exemption in Tennessee
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Tennessee exempts $25,000 of home equity for a single person and $50,000 for a married couple or head of household.
How Tennessee treats Homestead Exemption
Tennessee's homestead exemption protects a specified dollar amount of equity rather than the property itself, meaning creditors can still pursue claims against home value exceeding the exemption limit. The exemption applies only to the primary residence and requires the owner to occupy it as a principal dwelling. The protection does not apply to mortgages, property taxes, or liens for home repairs and improvements.
The general definition of Homestead Exemption
A legal protection that shields a primary residence from creditors' claims up to a certain value.
A homestead exemption is a law that protects your home from being seized to pay debts. When you claim a homestead exemption, a portion of your home's value becomes off-limits to creditors, even if you file for bankruptcy or lose a lawsuit. The amount protected varies by state, and you typically must file a declaration to activate the protection.
Read the full Homestead Exemption entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Tennessee.