Suppose you own a home in Los Angeles County. In that case, did you know that you’re entitled to legal protection called the Homestead Exemption? At Anshin Mobile Notary & Live Scan, many of our clients come to us when handling property ownership, estate planning, or financial protection documents. But many homeowners aren’t aware of the homestead exemption. This article breaks down the who, what, where, when, why and how of the homestead exemption.
What Is the Homestead Exemption?
The California Homestead Exemption protects some of your home equity from certain creditors. In other words, it limits how much of your home’s value a creditor can take in the event of a forced sale due to unsecured debt, such as credit card judgments or bankruptcy. As of January 1, 2021, Assembly Bill 1885 dramatically increased the exemption amounts and made them automatic — meaning most California homeowners are covered without needing to file anything. Even so, it’s recommended that certain actions are taken (see below).
How Much Is the Homestead Exemption in Los Angeles County?
The exemption amount is based on the median home price in your county, and it adjusts annually. The 2024 range is:
- Minimum: $300,000
- Maximum: $678,391 (or the county-specific median home price, whichever is lower)
In Los Angeles County, the exemption typically falls near the upper limit — giving most homeowners around $600,000 in equity protection. For instance, if your home is worth $2,000,000, and the judgment against you was for $2,000,000, the amount of the judgment that could be satisfied from your home would be its value, $2,000,000, less $600,000, or $1,400,000.
Who Qualifies for the Homestead Exemption?
You qualify automatically if:
- The property is your primary residence (not a rental or investment).
- You own the home (including condos or mobile homes).
- You live in California, including Los Angeles County.
While you don’t need to file a declaration to get the basic protection, filing a declared homestead is recommended and may offer additional benefits in certain legal scenarios.
When Is a Declared Homestead Recommended?
Although the exemption is automatic under current law, some legal professionals may still recommend filing a homestead declaration to strengthen your protection, especially if:
- You’re concerned about future legal claims or judgments
- You’re involved in estate planning or a trust transfer
- You want to protect your spouse or children’s rights in the home
In these cases, the declaration must be notarized and recorded with the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder.
The document should include:
- Name of the homeowner(s)/declarant(s)
- A statement declaring the homestead
- A description of the property: (address, legal description)
- A statement that the facts are true
- Signatures of the homeowner(s)/declarant(s)
- Notarized signatures
How Anshin Notary Can Help
We regularly assist clients with notarizing:
Whether you’re filing on your own or working with an attorney, we make the notarization process smooth and secure. Yes, we can notarize your homestead declaration or any related property or estate planning document. Visit one of our offices or schedule a mobile notary visit anywhere in Los Angeles or Beverly Hills.
Our Office Locations
Anshin Mobile Notary & Live Scan – Los Angeles
5211 West Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
📞 (310) 526-0200
Anshin Mobile Notary & Live Scan – Beverly Hills
113 N San Vicente Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211
📞 (424) 253-8149
Frequently Asked Questions About the Homestead Exemption
What is the purpose of the Homestead Exemption?
The homestead exemption is designed to protect a portion of your home equity from certain types of creditors. It prevents forced sales up to a set dollar amount based on local housing values.
Is the Homestead Exemption automatic in Los Angeles County?
Yes, under California law, the homestead exemption is now automatic. Most homeowners in Los Angeles County benefit from up to $600,000 in protection without needing to file anything.
Should I still file a declared homestead?
In some situations — especially involving estate planning, trusts, or legal disputes — filing a notarized homestead declaration offers added protection. It’s best to consult a legal or notary professional if you’re unsure.
How do I file a declared homestead?
You’ll need to complete a homestead declaration form, have it notarized, and then record it with the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder’s Office.
Can Anshin Notary notarize my homestead declaration?
Absolutely. We can notarize your homestead declaration, grant deeds, or any related property ownership or estate planning documents. Visit one of our offices or request a mobile notary to come to you.
Final Thoughts
The Homestead Exemption is one of the most underutilized legal protections available to California homeowners. If you’re facing financial uncertainty, transferring property, or updating your estate plan, understanding this exemption — and how to strengthen it — is essential.
Need help notarizing a homestead declaration or related document? We can notarize it for you — quickly, professionally, and at your convenience. Contact Anshin Mobile Notary & Live Scan today.
Learn more about our Real Estate & Deed Notarization Services.
