"Chattel paper" means "chattel paper" as defined in paragraph (11) of subdivision (a) of Section 9102 of the Commercial Code.
§ 680.140.Chattel Paper
Title 9. Enforcement of Judgments · Division 1 · Chapter 1. Short Title and Definitions · Last amended 2001 · Last verified July 28, 2026
In one sentenceSection 680.140 defines chattel paper by cross-reference to the Commercial Code, covering records that show both a monetary obligation and a security interest or lease in specific goods, a category of property a judgment creditor may need to levy on differently than plain cash or receivables.
Full Text of § 680.140
Plain-English Summary
Chattel paper is a hybrid: a record -- paper or electronic -- that combines a monetary obligation with a security interest in, or lease of, specific goods, like a promissory note tied to a car loan along with the lien on the car itself. This section borrows the Commercial Code's definition directly, so the enforcement meaning matches the commercial-law meaning exactly.
Why single it out from ordinary accounts or instruments? Because chattel paper often has to be physically located and taken into possession to be enforced against, unlike a pure account receivable. The Enforcement of Judgments Law's levying-officer provisions treat tangible personal property, which includes chattel paper under § 680.370, with different custody procedures than intangible rights to payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an example of chattel paper?
A record combining a monetary obligation with a security interest in or lease of specific goods -- for instance, a financing agreement for equipment paired with the seller's security interest in that equipment.
Why does chattel paper get treated as tangible personal property under the Enforcement of Judgments Law?
Section 680.370 lists chattel paper among the categories of tangible personal property, which affects how a levying officer must take custody of it compared with a pure account receivable.
Where does this definition come from?
Paragraph (11) of subdivision (a) of Commercial Code Section 9102, the same provision that governs chattel paper in secured transactions generally.
Amendment History
EFFECTIVE 7/1/2001. Amended October 10, 1999 (Bill Number: SB 45) (Chapter 991).
Source & verification. Section text is reproduced verbatim from
the Deering's California Codes Annotated / vLex. Enacted by the California Legislature.
Last verified July 28, 2026.
· Official source
Also known as: chattel paper definition california judgment enforcement