La Crosse, WI asked in Bankruptcy for Wisconsin

Q: Under a chapter 7 bankruptcy, if I inherit the home I live in via deed transfer, is the home still an exempt asset?

My parents own the home and want to transfer the deed to us as an inheritance rather than gift to avoid gift tax. Could the trustee take our home in that scenario?

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2 Lawyer Answers
Cristina M. Lipan
Cristina M. Lipan
Answered
  • Bankruptcy Lawyer
  • Wantagh, NY

A: It doesn't matter how you received ownership of the home. If you own real property and use it as your residence, you can use the available homestead exemption. However, a homestead exemption may not completely protect your property. You should speak to a local bankruptcy attorney to assess your entire situation.

Timothy Denison
Timothy Denison
Answered
  • Bankruptcy Lawyer
  • Louisville, KY

A: If you are already in a chapter7 Bankruptcy, your parents should wait to transfer the inheritance until the discharge is entered. If you have not already filed a chapter 7, you should consult a local bankruptcy attorney before filing.

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