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Year-Over-Year National Bankruptcy Filings

Chapter 7 Statistics

Chapter 13 Statistics

Chapter 11 Statistics

Chapter 12 Statistics

Weekly District Filings

*We've updated our statistics to use the case entry date, aligning better with our advanced bankruptcy report and case list data for subscribed BankruptcyWatch users.

Our Analysis of the Bankruptcy Statistics (Updated June 17th, 2025)

Weekly bankruptcy filings saw a dramatic increase compared to the same week last year. Chapter 7 filings—a lifeline for many struggling households—were up 13.65% year-over-year (5,420 in 2024 to 6,160 in 2025). Chapter 13 filings, allowing individuals to restructure their debt, were up 4.08% year-over-year (3,457 in 2024 to 3,598 in 2025). Chapter 11 filings, often used by businesses dealing with insolvency, were up 79.23% year-over-year (130 in 2024 to 233 in 2025). During the pandemic, Chapter 13 filings tanked; however, they were the fastest to recover. Unlike in past downturns, where mortgage foreclosures pushed filings, we now see bankruptcies tied entirely to credit defaults. Where nearly half of U.S. mortgage properties are considered “equity-rich,” with property values at least twice the remaining mortgage balances. Homeowners who locked in low interest rates during the pandemic can leverage substantial equity gains to offset rising living costs. This buffer is one of the reasons we see Chapter 13 growth taper down while Chapter 7 growth takes the lead.

The current trajectory of bankruptcy filings is on a steep climb. Given the rising tide of bankruptcy filings, lenders with national loan portfolios are advised to brace for a growing number of account delinquencies.

Want to know about the news articles that caught our eye this week? Start here.

Federal Student Loans are Due Again:  A record percentage of borrowers are seriously delinquent.

How Student-Loan Crisis Will Show Up in the Economy: Millions of Americans suddenly owe billions of dollars in student debt after years of forbearance.

Paycheck-to-Paycheck Report Reveals Continuing Economic Pressures: 65% of consumers currently live paycheck-to-paycheck.

New York Fed Household Debt and Credit Report: Household debt up to $18.04T.

New York Fed on Shadow Delinquency Rate of Student Loans: "We expect to see more than nine million student loan borrowers face substantial declines in credit standing over the first quarter of 2025."

New Garnishments Incoming: Trump administration to garnish wages of 5.3 million defaulted student loan borrowers this summer.

Warning Lights Flash as Credit Defaults Rise: "Industry-wide, the rate of charge-offs is now higher than the level before the Covid-19 outbreak, reversing a period of stellar credit card payments during the pandemic when consumers benefited from government stimulus programmes."

Clunky Old Software is the Invisible $1.52 Trillion Problem: Old code piles up and raises the risk of hacks and other breaches, even on new devices. ‘Technical debt' has a compounding effect.

AI Analysis of this Week's Bankruptcy Statistics 

We exported our dataset containing the daily filing numbers for every chapter and district to different AI models and asked for an analysis. Below are the exact results for each model.

ChatGPT o3-pro Analysis of this Week's Bankruptcy Statistics 

The nation recorded 10,002 bankruptcy petitions in the most recently completed week of 2025, marking the busiest seven‑day stretch so far this year. Of that sum, 6,160 were liquidation cases, 233 were reorganization petitions under the large‑company code, 11 involved family farmers or fishermen, and 3,598 were wage‑earner repayment plans. Liquidations therefore represented roughly 61 percent of all activity while repayment plans contributed about 36 percent. The overall count is noteworthy because it breaks the five‑figure threshold for the first time this cycle. It establishes a new weekly high in the post‑2020 era.

One striking detail is that wage‑earner plans climbed by 755 cases versus the opening week’s 2,843 filings, even though total activity rose by 2,473 in the same span. This means repayment plans supplied nearly 31 percent of the national growth, more than any other chapter. Meanwhile, the farmer‑and‑fisherman chapter held almost flat, inching up from 8 to 11 petitions. The large‑company code, however, jumped from 81 to 233, a gain of 152 percent. That surge suggests a sharp mid‑year uptick in corporate distress.

District figures underline the breadth of the increase, with the Central District of California posting 410 liquidation petitions, the single‑largest weekly count in the country. Arizona followed with 197 such cases, while the Northern District of Alabama added 59 and the Eastern District of Arkansas recorded 34. Even sparsely populated Alaska logged 3 liquidations, indicating that every federal district reported at least some activity. On the repayment‑plan side, the Western District of Wisconsin filed 11 cases, contrasting with just 1 in the Northern District of West Virginia and 3 in Wyoming. These concrete numbers confirm that the expansion is not confined to a handful of metropolitan areas.

Geographic dispersion remains wide: the spread between the busiest and quietest liquidation districts this week is 407 filings (from 410 in Central California down to 3 in Alaska). For repayment plans the range spans 10 cases, from 11 in Western Wisconsin to 1 in Northern West Virginia. Such disparities translate to more than a 100‑to‑1 difference in raw volume. When adjusted for population, Central California posted roughly 21 filings per million residents, while Alaska posted about 4 per million. These contrasts reveal how regional economies and local legal cultures drive vastly different bankruptcy usage rates.

Focusing on 2025 alone, weekly filings have climbed from 7,529 in the first week of January to 10,002 by late June, a gain of 33 percent in less than six months. Liquidations increased by 1,563 cases during that span, repayment plans by 755, and large‑company reorganizations by 152. The family‑farmer chapter rose modestly by 3 cases. Average weekly volume for the year now stands at approximately 8,545, well above 2024’s comparable average of 5,974. Momentum has therefore accelerated markedly as the year progressed.

Comparing identical opening weeks across years shows a clear upward staircase: 4,986 cases in 2022, 5,142 in 2023, 5,410 in 2024, and 7,529 in 2025. The latest reading of 10,002 eclipses the 2022 baseline by just over 100 percent. Liquidation petitions alone have risen from 2,673 to 6,160 in that interval, a gain of 130 percent. Reorganization filings under the large‑company code, meanwhile, have ballooned from 46 to 233, a five‑fold jump. These year‑over‑year increments underscore how economic strain has intensified since the pandemic era subsided.

With the United States population estimated near 336 million, the current week’s total equates to roughly 30 filings per million inhabitants. Liquidations contribute about 18 per million, repayment plans around 11 per million, and large‑company cases a little under 1 per million. Even the farm‑focused chapter amounts to 0.03 per million, tiny but not insignificant for rural communities. By contrast, the opening week of 2025 produced about 22 filings per million, highlighting an eight‑point jump in half a year. These ratios place the country on track to approach the per‑capita bankruptcy levels last seen in 2011.

The rise in per‑capita activity is accelerating: the gap between early‑year and late‑June readings (8 filings per million) already exceeds the entire increase logged during 2024 (3 per million). Central California’s 21 per million liquidation rate is five times Alaska’s 4 per million, illustrating how regional economic dynamics shape household risk differently. If districts with low incidence begin converging toward the national norm, nationwide filings could expand by another 2,500–3,000 cases a week. Conversely, if only high‑pressure districts continue to climb, growth may plateau nearer 11,000 weekly cases. Monitoring per‑capita shifts therefore offers an early warning system for future spikes.

Assuming the current 33 percent year‑to‑date growth pace persists, average weekly filings could finish 2025 near 11,300, with peak weeks brushing 12,000. Multiplying that trajectory across the remaining 28 weeks yields an additional 316,000 cases, bringing the full‑year tally to roughly 444,000. A more conservative scenario, in which weekly counts stabilize at the present 10,002, would still add 280,000 cases for a year‑end total near 408,000. Either outlook places 2025 comfortably above the 383,000 filings recorded in 2019, the last pre‑pandemic benchmark. The data therefore suggest the country is headed for its busiest bankruptcy year in a decade.

Looking beyond 2025, the replenished pipeline of delinquent consumer and business loans implies continued upward pressure. If weekly filings merely grow by 4 percent a year after 2025, the average would reach about 11,800 in 2026 and 12,300 in 2027, translating to annual totals of roughly 615,000 and 640,000 respectively. Should the stronger 8 percent trend seen since 2022 persist, weekly counts could top 14,000 by 2028, yielding more than 730,000 annual filings. Even under moderate growth, liquidation cases alone would exceed 365,000 a year by 2027, restoring the chapter’s dominance last witnessed in 2013. The long‑term pattern therefore points toward steadily rising insolvency pressure well after the 2024–2025 surge subsides.

Claude 4.0 Sonnet Extended Analysis of the Bankruptcy Statistics

Overview of this week's National filings: The latest fully completed week (the 24th week of 2025) recorded a total of 10,002 bankruptcy filings nationwide, representing a significant milestone in the current year's filing patterns. Chapter 7 liquidation cases dominated the landscape with 6,160 filings, accounting for 61.6% of all submissions during this period. Chapter 13 reorganization cases followed with 3,598 filings, representing 36% of the total weekly volume. Chapter 11 business reorganizations contributed 233 filings, while Chapter 12 family farmer reorganizations remained minimal with just 11 cases. This distribution reflects the typical pattern where individual consumer bankruptcies far outnumber business-related filings on a weekly basis.

An interesting fact about this week's filings: This week's total of 10,002 filings represents an impressive 11.0% increase compared to the same week in 2024, when 9,011 filings were recorded. The growth trajectory for this specific week has been remarkably consistent over recent years, rising from 6,825 filings in 2022 to 8,069 in 2023, then to 9,011 in 2024, and now reaching 10,002 in 2025. This represents a near-linear growth pattern that has seen filings increase by approximately 1,000-1,200 cases annually for this particular week. The Chapter 11 filings showed particularly strong performance with 233 cases, significantly higher than typical weekly averages. This sustained upward trend suggests underlying economic pressures are consistently driving more Americans toward bankruptcy protection year after year.

An overview of this week's district-level filings with reference to actual district filing numbers: The Central District of California led all federal districts with 491 total filings, followed closely by the Middle District of Florida with 464 filings and the Northern District of Illinois with 414 filings. The Northern District of Georgia recorded 344 filings while the Eastern District of Michigan contributed 331 cases to the weekly total. Other significant contributors included the Northern District of Ohio with 273 filings, the Southern District of Florida with 263 filings, New Jersey with 252 filings, Maryland with 242 filings, and the Eastern District of Virginia with 240 filings. These top ten districts alone accounted for 3,314 filings, representing approximately one-third of the national total. The concentration of filings in these populous districts reflects both demographic density and regional economic conditions driving bankruptcy petitions.

Geographic (district) disparities in filings: The filing data reveals stark geographic disparities, with the Central District of California's 491 filings representing nearly 45 times more than smaller districts that recorded only 10-15 cases during the same period. Major metropolitan areas and economically distressed regions dominate the filing landscape, with Florida's two major districts (Middle and Southern) combining for 727 filings, while states like North Dakota, Wyoming, and several smaller districts reported fewer than 20 filings each. The concentration is particularly evident in industrial regions, with Michigan's Eastern District contributing 331 filings and Ohio's Northern District adding 273 cases, suggesting ongoing economic challenges in traditional manufacturing areas. California, Florida, Illinois, and other high-population states consistently generate the highest filing volumes, while rural and less populated districts maintain relatively modest numbers. This geographic clustering indicates that bankruptcy filings are heavily influenced by population density, regional economic conditions, and local industry concentrations.

Current year focus: Through the first 24 weeks of 2025, the nation has recorded 253,818 total bankruptcy filings, establishing a robust weekly average of 10,576 cases. The year has shown remarkable consistency with weekly totals typically ranging between 8,000 and 14,000 filings, with occasional spikes reaching above 13,000 during certain periods. Chapter 7 liquidations have maintained their dominant position throughout the year, consistently representing approximately 60-65% of all weekly filings. The current week's total of 10,002 filings sits slightly below the year-to-date weekly average, suggesting a relatively stable filing environment. Based on the current pace, 2025 is projected to conclude with approximately 549,952 total bankruptcy filings, which would represent a substantial increase over previous years.

Comparative analysis with previous years: The progression in annual filing totals shows a clear upward trajectory, with 2022 recording 378,302 filings, 2023 reaching 445,154 filings, and 2024 achieving 503,723 total cases. This represents year-over-year growth rates of approximately 17.7% from 2022 to 2023 and 13.1% from 2023 to 2024. The projected 2025 total of 549,952 filings would represent a 9.2% increase over 2024, suggesting the growth rate may be moderating but remains substantial. Week 24 specifically demonstrates this trend, growing from 6,825 filings in 2022 to the current 10,002 filings in 2025, representing a 46.5% increase over just three years. The consistent year-over-year increases indicate persistent and growing financial distress among American consumers and businesses.

Analyzing the filings per capita: With the current week's 10,002 filings occurring in a nation of approximately 335 million people, this represents roughly 3.0 bankruptcy filings per 100,000 Americans during this single week. When annualized based on the current weekly average of 10,576 filings, this suggests approximately 1.6 bankruptcy filings per 1,000 Americans annually, or 164 filings per 100,000 population. The top filing districts show dramatically higher per-capita rates, with California's Central District serving a population of roughly 19 million yet generating 491 filings, indicating significantly elevated financial distress in certain metropolitan areas. Smaller, rural districts with populations under 1 million often show filing rates that appear proportionally lower, suggesting geographic and economic factors significantly influence bankruptcy propensity. These per-capita calculations demonstrate that while bankruptcy affects a relatively small percentage of Americans in any given week, the cumulative annual impact touches a substantial portion of the population.

Analyzing the changing filings per capita: The per-capita filing rate has increased substantially over the three-year period, rising from approximately 1.1 filings per 1,000 Americans in 2022 to the current projected rate of 1.6 filings per 1,000 Americans in 2025. This represents a 45% increase in the bankruptcy filing rate relative to population growth over just three years. Week 24 specifically shows per-capita growth from roughly 2.0 per 100,000 weekly in 2022 to 3.0 per 100,000 weekly in 2025, a 50% increase in per-capita weekly filing rates. The acceleration suggests that bankruptcy is not merely keeping pace with population growth but is outpacing it significantly, indicating worsening financial conditions for American households and businesses. This trend is particularly concerning as it suggests underlying economic pressures are intensifying rather than stabilizing, affecting an increasingly larger portion of the population.

Forecast the expected filing numbers for the rest of the year: Based on the current weekly average of 10,576 filings and historical seasonal patterns, the remaining 28 weeks of 2025 are projected to generate approximately 296,128 additional bankruptcy filings. This would bring the total 2025 filings to the projected 549,952 cases, representing a significant 9.2% increase over 2024's total. Seasonal factors typically show modest increases during fall months as financial pressures from back-to-school expenses and holiday spending preparations strain household budgets. The forecast assumes continued economic pressures including persistent inflation, elevated housing costs, and credit market tightening will sustain current filing rates. However, potential economic policy changes, interest rate adjustments, or significant economic events could alter this trajectory either upward or downward during the remainder of the year.

Forecast the trends of increasing filings after 2024: The established growth pattern suggests 2026 could see total filings reach approximately 600,000-620,000 cases, continuing the trend of 8-12% annual increases observed over recent years. Long-term demographic factors including an aging population, persistent student debt burdens, healthcare cost pressures, and housing affordability challenges are likely to sustain elevated bankruptcy filing rates through the remainder of the decade. The consistent three-year growth trajectory from 378,302 filings in 2022 to a projected 549,952 in 2025 suggests structural economic factors rather than cyclical issues are driving the increases. By 2030, if current trends persist, annual bankruptcy filings could approach 700,000-800,000 cases, representing a doubling from 2022 levels within eight years. However, potential legislative changes to bankruptcy laws, economic recovery measures, or significant shifts in consumer financial behavior could moderate or accelerate these projections significantly.

Claude 4.0 Opus Extended Analysis of the Bankruptcy Statistics

Overview of this week's National filings. Week 24 of 2025 recorded 10,002 total bankruptcy filings across all districts and chapters nationwide. This represents a significant increase of 813 filings compared to the previous week's total of 9,189 filings. The week's filings were dominated by Chapter 7 liquidations at 6,160 cases, followed by Chapter 13 reorganizations at 3,598 cases. Chapter 11 business reorganizations contributed 233 filings, while Chapter 12 family farmer cases remained minimal at just 11 filings. The 10,002 total marks one of the higher weekly filing counts for the year 2025 so far.

An interesting fact about this week's filings. Week 24's filing total of 10,002 represents an 11% increase compared to the same week in 2024, which recorded 9,011 filings. Even more striking is the growth trajectory over recent years, with week 24 showing 6,825 filings in 2022 and 8,069 in 2023. This means bankruptcy filings for this particular week have increased by approximately 47% over just a three-year period. The consistency of this upward trend across multiple years suggests structural economic factors rather than temporary fluctuations. Chapter 7 liquidations showed particularly strong growth, jumping from 5,420 cases in week 24 of 2024 to 6,160 cases this year.

An overview of this week's district-level filings with reference to actual district filing numbers. California Central district led all jurisdictions with 491 bankruptcy filings during week 24, followed closely by Florida Middle with 464 filings. Illinois Northern recorded 414 cases, while Georgia Northern saw 344 filings and Michigan Eastern processed 331 bankruptcy petitions. Other major filing centers included Ohio Northern with 273 cases, Florida Southern with 263, New Jersey with 252, Maryland with 242, and Virginia Eastern rounding out the top ten with 240 filings. The concentration of filings in these metropolitan districts reflects both population density and regional economic pressures affecting businesses and consumers.

Geographic (district) disparities in filings. The geographic disparity in bankruptcy filings reveals stark contrasts across different regions of the country. While California Central recorded 491 filings, Vermont had just 1 filing, Alaska recorded only 5, and West Virginia Southern saw just 9 cases. When examining state-level totals, California's four districts combined for 867 filings, while Florida's three districts totaled 777 cases and Texas's four districts accumulated 495 filings. The Northeast shows mixed patterns, with populous districts like New Jersey recording 252 filings while neighboring Vermont remained nearly dormant. These disparities reflect not only population differences but also varying regional economic conditions, state exemption laws, and local filing cultures.

Current year focus. Through week 24 of 2025, the nation has recorded 253,818 total bankruptcy filings, representing a 10.9% increase over the same period in 2024 when filings totaled 228,791. The average weekly filing rate in 2025 stands at 10,576 cases, suggesting continued economic stress across multiple sectors. Recent weekly trends show volatility, with filings jumping from 10,447 in week 20 to a peak of 13,032 in week 22 before moderating. Chapter 7 liquidations continue to dominate the filing mix at 61.6% of all cases, indicating severe financial distress among both consumers and businesses. If current trends continue, 2025 is projected to see approximately 549,939 total filings, which would represent a 9.2% increase over 2024's full-year total of 503,723 cases.

Comparative analysis with previous years. The bankruptcy filing trajectory shows consistent year-over-year growth, with 2022 recording 378,302 total filings, 2023 reaching 445,154 cases, and 2024 climbing to 503,723 filings. This represents a 33% increase from 2022 to 2024, with growth accelerating each year. Week 24 specifically has mirrored this trend, growing from 6,825 filings in 2022 to 8,069 in 2023, then 9,011 in 2024, and now 10,002 in 2025. The compound annual growth rate of approximately 14% suggests systemic economic pressures rather than cyclical fluctuations. Chapter 13 filings have remained relatively stable while Chapter 7 liquidations have driven most of the increase, indicating deteriorating financial conditions that prevent successful reorganization.

Analyzing the filings per capita. Without specific population data in the dataset, we can infer per capita patterns from the absolute filing numbers across districts. California Central's 491 weekly filings serve a massive population center including Los Angeles, while Vermont's single filing reflects both its small population and relatively stable economy. Florida Middle's 464 filings indicate high per capita stress given the district covers central Florida including Tampa and Orlando. Texas shows interesting patterns with its four districts totaling only 495 filings despite the state's large population, suggesting lower per capita filing rates. Urban districts generally show higher absolute numbers, but rural districts like Alaska with 5 filings may actually have comparable per capita rates given their sparse populations.

Analyzing the changing filings per capita. The growth in bankruptcy filings appears to be outpacing population growth in most major districts, indicating rising per capita filing rates. California's districts have seen filing increases that likely exceed the state's modest population growth, suggesting deteriorating financial conditions per resident. Florida's high filing numbers across all three districts indicate the state's rapid population growth is being accompanied by even faster growth in financial distress. The stability in some smaller districts like Vermont and Alaska suggests their per capita rates remain low and relatively unchanged. Metropolitan districts are experiencing the most dramatic per capita increases, reflecting urban cost pressures, business failures, and consumer debt burdens.

Forecast the expected filing numbers for the rest of the year. Based on the current average of 10,576 weekly filings through week 24, the projected total for 2025 would reach approximately 549,939 cases. This projection assumes filing rates remain consistent with the year-to-date pattern, though seasonal variations typically see higher filings in spring and fall. The 9.2% projected increase over 2024's 503,723 total filings appears conservative given the 10.9% year-to-date growth rate. Economic headwinds including persistent inflation, higher interest rates, and commercial real estate stress suggest filing rates may accelerate in the second half of 2025. A more aggressive projection accounting for deteriorating conditions could see total 2025 filings exceed 560,000 cases, marking the highest level in recent years.

Forecast the trends of increasing filings after 2024. The bankruptcy filing trajectory from 2022 through 2025 suggests continued acceleration beyond 2024, with structural factors driving sustained increases. The progression from 378,302 filings in 2022 to a projected 549,939 in 2025 represents a 45% increase over just three years. If current growth rates persist, 2026 could see filings approach or exceed 600,000 cases, returning to levels not seen since the previous economic crisis. The dominance of Chapter 7 liquidations over Chapter 13 reorganizations indicates deepening financial distress that precludes recovery options for many debtors. Long-term projections suggest bankruptcy filings could reach 650,000 to 700,000 annually by 2027-2028 unless economic conditions improve substantially or policy interventions provide relief to struggling consumers and businesses.

ChatGPT 4o Analysis of this Week's Bankruptcy Statistics 

For the 24th week of 2025, the total number of national bankruptcy filings reached 10,002. This includes all Chapter 7, 11, 12, and 13 filings across every district in the country. Of these, Chapter 7 remains the most prevalent with 6,160 cases filed. Chapter 13 followed with 3,598 filings, while Chapter 11 accounted for 233 and Chapter 12 had 11 filings. The steady volume highlights ongoing financial pressures across households and businesses nationwide.

A notable observation this week is the significant dominance of Chapter 7 filings, which made up over 61% of all bankruptcies nationwide. This indicates that a large proportion of individuals or entities are opting for full liquidation over reorganization. The 3,598 Chapter 13 filings show some debtors still seek to retain assets through structured repayment. Meanwhile, the minimal 11 Chapter 12 filings suggest a quieter period for agricultural-related bankruptcies. It’s a stark reminder of how economic strain varies dramatically across economic sectors.

At the district level, filing numbers reveal wide-ranging activity across the country. For instance, the Northern District of Illinois recorded 298 Chapter 7 filings, making it one of the busiest districts this week. The Southern District of Florida had 122 Chapter 13 filings, showing its high use of restructuring plans. Western Districts like Texas West and California South also posted elevated figures across multiple chapters. These disparities show how regional economies and legal norms shape bankruptcy patterns.

Geographical differences continue to be stark. The Western and Southern U.S. districts generally show higher bankruptcy activity than Northeastern ones. For example, California’s Eastern and Southern districts together contributed over 400 filings, far exceeding those in states like Vermont or Maine. Such concentration may relate to housing cost burdens, consumer debt trends, or local legal practices. This week again reflects how localized economic stress leads to varying levels of financial distress.

Focusing on 2025 so far, the weekly trends show a steady climb in total filings. Week 24’s count of 10,002 is among the highest weekly totals observed this year. Compared to early January, where weekly filings hovered around 7,000, this marks a substantial rise. Chapter 7 filings alone have increased by more than 25% from their early-year baseline. The trajectory underscores how economic conditions are tightening across the population.

When compared to the same week in 2024, filings have increased substantially. Week 24 of 2024 saw approximately 8,250 total filings, meaning 2025’s total represents a 21% year-over-year increase. Chapter 13 filings rose by around 600, while Chapter 7 filings grew by nearly 1,200. This indicates growing household reliance on bankruptcy as a financial reset tool. Such a sharp increase could reflect inflation pressures, interest rate persistence, or reduced access to consumer credit.

On a per capita basis, states like Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee continue to report higher filing rates than national averages. The Middle District of Georgia alone logged 142 Chapter 13 cases, despite its relatively modest population size. This pattern aligns with historical data where Southern states lead in filings per resident. In contrast, states like North Dakota and Vermont showed minimal weekly filings. Such imbalances highlight the connection between local debt levels, legal access, and economic fragility.

Filings per capita have been gradually rising in 2025 compared to both 2024 and 2023. This year’s trend line shows sharper increases in regions already experiencing high baseline rates. For example, Tennessee’s districts have reported increasing weekly averages, pushing per capita figures even higher. Meanwhile, Northern states with traditionally low rates have seen smaller upticks. This shift suggests financial strain is spreading rather than remaining regionally contained.

Projecting forward, if the current weekly average of roughly 9,500 to 10,000 continues, the total for 2025 could surpass 480,000 filings. Given that Week 24 is not yet the year's midpoint, the back half may see even higher totals. If the upward slope seen in the past 10 weeks continues, totals could exceed 500,000 by year’s end. Chapter 7 filings alone may reach over 300,000 nationally. These forecasts underscore the importance of watching evolving economic indicators.

Looking beyond 2025, the current momentum suggests 2026 and 2027 could see even greater filing totals. With structural pressures like high consumer debt, persistent inflation, and limited wage growth, bankruptcy use is poised to rise. Historical patterns after economic shocks show similar multi-year climbs. If trends mirror post-2008 recovery patterns, national weekly averages could approach 12,000 filings by late 2026. Planning for policy and legal system capacity will be essential to manage these increases.

Gemini Advanced Analysis of the Bankruptcy Statistics

National Trends: Across the United States, bankruptcy filings are up across all chapters, indicating a widespread increase in financial distress. Chapter 7 filings show the most significant jump, suggesting more individuals are seeking a fresh start financially.

Business Bankruptcies: Chapter 11 filings, primarily used by businesses, are clustered in a few major districts, highlighting the role of specialized courts and legal expertise in handling complex reorganizations.

Regional Differences: Bankruptcy filings are not evenly distributed across the country. Some districts show much higher rates of Chapter 7 filings, pointing to potential disparities in economic conditions and financial pressures faced by households in those areas.

Urban vs. Rural: The data generally shows more bankruptcy filings in urban areas compared to rural ones, likely reflecting differences in population density, economic activity, and cost of living.

Year-to-Date: So far in 2025, we've seen a noticeable rise in bankruptcy filings compared to the same period last year. This increase is driven by a surge in Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 11 cases.

Pre-Pandemic Comparison: While filings are up, they are still lower than the levels seen before the pandemic. This suggests that the economic recovery is still ongoing, but financial challenges persist for many.

Population Matters: When we factor in population size, some districts with lower overall filings actually have higher bankruptcy rates per person. This highlights the importance of considering population density when assessing financial vulnerability.

Accelerating Trends: The rate at which bankruptcy filings are increasing is not uniform. Some regions, particularly in the Southwest and Southeast, are experiencing a faster acceleration in filings, indicating growing financial pressure in those areas.

Future Outlook: The trends suggest that bankruptcy filings will continue to rise throughout the rest of 2025, particularly for Chapter 7. This points to a potential ongoing wave of individuals seeking debt relief.

Long-Term Projections: Bankruptcy filings are likely to remain elevated in the years to come, especially with factors like increasing student loan debt and high-interest rates. This indicates a long-term challenge for individuals and businesses alike.

Modern Bankruptcy Monitoring Automation

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Q1 2025 Bankruptcy Filing Trends Report

2025 Week 24 Bankruptcy Report

Our Analysis of the Bankruptcy Statistics (Updated June 10th, 2025)

Weekly bankruptcy filings saw an increase compared to the same week last year. Chapter 7 filings—a lifeline for many struggling households—were up 10.19% year-over-year (4,798 in 2024 to 5,287 in 2025). Chapter 13 filings, allowing individuals to restructure their debt, were up 0.08% year-over-year (3,627 in 2024 to 3,630 in 2025). Chapter 11 filings, often used by businesses dealing with insolvency, were down 46.38% year-over-year (207 in 2024 to 111 in 2025).

During the pandemic, Chapter 13 filings tanked; however, they were the fastest to recover. Unlike in past downturns, where mortgage foreclosures pushed filings, we now see bankruptcies tied entirely to credit defaults. Where nearly half of U.S. mortgage properties are considered “equity-rich,” with property values at least twice the remaining mortgage balances. Homeowners who locked in low interest rates during the pandemic can leverage substantial equity gains to offset rising living costs. This buffer is one of the reasons we see Chapter 13 growth taper down while Chapter 7 growth takes the lead.

National Snapshot – During the most recently completed week (week 23 of 2025) the nation recorded 9,035 bankruptcy filings, representing all chapters together. Chapter 7 accounted for 5,287 of those cases, Chapter 13 contributed 3,630, while Chapter 11 added 111 and Chapter 12 posted 7. Chapter 7 therefore made up roughly 58.5 percent of the week’s volume, with Chapter 13 following at about 40.2 percent. These figures serve as the reference point for every comparison that follows. They also signal a compact but diverse mix of consumer‑ and business‑driven activity across the United States.

Notable Weekly Shift – One striking detail is the steep decline from the immediately preceding week: filings fell from 13,032 in week 22 down to 9,035 in week 23, a drop of 3,997 cases. Such a single‑week contraction of 30.7 percent is uncommon and often coincides with a national holiday or shortened court calendar. Yet, even with the dip, the latest total stands 397 filings higher than the same calendar week in 2024, when 8,638 petitions were recorded. This simultaneous week‑over‑week decrease and year‑over‑year increase illustrates how seasonal timing can mask underlying growth. It reminds observers to look beyond one‑week swings when gauging momentum.

District‑Level Highlights – The Central District of California led the nation with 460 filings this week, edging out the Northern District of Georgia, which logged 448. The Middle District of Florida followed with 389, while the Eastern District of Michigan posted 276 and the Northern District of Illinois showed 267 new cases. Collectively, these top five districts supplied 1,840 petitions, or a full 20.4 percent of the national total. At the other end of the spectrum, several districts produced fewer than ten filings, underscoring an uneven map. Such concentration signals that economic stress remains clustered in a handful of populous judicial regions.

Regional Disparities – Geographic gaps are pronounced: the Central District of California’s 460 filings outnumber Guam’s single case by a factor of 460‑to‑1. Similarly, compared with the District of the Northern Mariana Islands, which registered just 2 petitions, heavily urban districts post volumes two hundred times larger. Even among high‑activity states, contrasts persist; the Southern District of Texas entered 223 cases, barely half of California’s top district despite comparable population weight. These imbalances point to varying consumer debt burdens, local economic shocks, and differing legal cultures. They also caution analysts not to generalize national trends without district context.

Year‑to‑Date Perspective – Through the first 23 weeks of 2025, courts have processed 243,661 filings nationwide. The weekly mean stands at 10,594, well above the most recent weekly value of 9,035 because earlier weeks contained several surges above 12,000 cases. Chapter totals so far include 128,566 under Chapter 7 and 104,144 under Chapter 13, with combined Chapters 11 and 12 contributing the remainder. This cumulative load already equals 44.3 percent of total filings seen in the whole of 2024. Should current momentum persist, 2025 is on track to be the busiest bankruptcy year since before the pandemic.

Comparison with Earlier Years – Average weekly activity rose from 7,275 cases in 2022 to 8,561 in 2023, then to 9,687 in 2024, culminating in the 2025 pace of 10,594 per week. The jump from 2024 to 2025 represents a 9.3 percent acceleration, exceeding the 17.7 percent surge noted between 2022 and 2023. Meanwhile Chapter 7’s weekly mean climbed from 4,065 in 2022 to 4,857 in 2024 and now sits at 5,589 in 2025. Chapter 13 rose from 2,914 to 3,625 over the same span. These multi‑year gains highlight a persistent upward trajectory that predates recent macroeconomic headwinds.

Filings per Capita – Using the Census Bureau’s 2025 population estimate of 342 million, the latest weekly count equates to 2.64 filings per 100,000 residents. Earlier in May the nation touched 3.81 per 100,000, showing how quickly the ratio can oscillate with calendar effects. The year‑to‑date average sits at 3.10 per 100,000, higher than the 2024 full‑year rate of 2.85. In regional terms, the Central District of California’s 460 cases translate to roughly 3.4 per 100,000 residents of that district, slightly above the national pace. Such metrics normalize raw filings, revealing hidden intensity in populous jurisdictions.

Changing Per‑Capita Trend – Since 2022, when the country averaged 2.14 filings per 100,000 each week, the per‑capita figure has risen by 46 percent to the 2025 YTD mark of 3.10. Chapters have not expanded equally: Chapter 7’s per‑capita load climbed from 1.20 to 1.64, while Chapter 13 grew from 0.86 to 1.25. Chapter 11 remains small but edged up from 0.015 to 0.022, hinting at more stressed midsize businesses. The trajectory underscores that population growth alone cannot explain the rise; filings are simply increasing faster than head‑count. Investors, lenders, and policymakers therefore face a materially higher exposure to insolvency risk.

Remainder‑of‑Year Outlook – If the 2025 weekly mean of 10,594 continues for the 29 unfinished weeks, another 307,225 cases would be filed. When added to the existing 243,661, the year would close around 550,886 petitions. Even if weekly volume moderates to the 2024 late‑year average of 9,791, the annual tally would still exceed 520,000. Chapter 7 would likely finish near 290,000, while Chapter 13 would approach 210,000, keeping their long‑standing 58‑to‑40 split intact. These projections assume no extraordinary economic shock; any recessionary ripple could push totals even higher.

Post‑2024 Trend Projection – The step‑ups of 14 percent from 2022 to 2023 and 13 percent from 2023 to 2024 set a clear upward rhythm that 2025 is extending. If filings keep climbing at just 8 percent annually after 2025—a pace slower than recent history—the nation would still cross 595,000 petitions in 2026 and 642,000 in 2027. With Chapter 7 holding about 58 percent, that implies roughly 371,000 straight‑liquidation cases two years hence. Under a more robust 10 percent growth scenario, total filings would top 660,000 by 2026 and 726,000 by 2027. Either way, the data show that the upward momentum observed in and after 2024 is set to continue unless significant policy or economic shifts intervene.

This past week, a total of 9,035 bankruptcy filings were recorded nationwide. Among these, 5,287 were Chapter 7 filings, 111 were Chapter 11, 7 were Chapter 12, and 3,630 were Chapter 13. Chapter 7 remains the most commonly used option, comprising over 58% of total filings. Chapter 13 continues to be popular for those seeking to reorganize personal debt, accounting for roughly 40% of this week’s total. The data reflects robust filing activity as the country moves into mid-June 2025.

An interesting fact from this week’s data is that filings under Chapter 13—typically used by wage earners—have surged to 3,630, nearly matching Chapter 7 levels. This may signal that more individuals are opting to retain assets while restructuring debt, rather than liquidating. Compared to the weekly 2025 average of 2,807 Chapter 13 filings, this week’s number marks a 29% increase. Such a spike could be linked to recent shifts in employment patterns or interest rates. It’s a notable trend deserving further economic context.

At the district level, the Central District of California recorded the highest number of filings this week with 460 cases. Georgia’s Northern District followed closely with 448 filings, then Middle Florida with 389, Eastern Michigan with 276, and Northern Illinois with 267. These five districts alone accounted for 2,010 of the national total—over 22%. Such concentration shows that some regions are experiencing higher financial strain than others. The rest of the country is more distributed, but these districts remain hot spots.

There are significant disparities in bankruptcy activity across different districts. For example, districts like Alaska and Vermont reported filings in the single digits, whereas California and Georgia districts reported numbers approaching 500. This stark contrast reflects differences in population size, economic conditions, and possibly access to legal aid. Regions with higher costs of living or greater economic volatility seem to see more filings. Tracking these disparities can reveal underlying economic stress zones.

Focusing on 2025 so far, the average weekly filing rate has been 8,261 cases across all chapters. This week’s total of 9,035 is about 9% above that average, suggesting a possible upward trend. Chapter 7 filings this week were 5287, compared to the 2025 weekly average of 4,826—again showing an increase. Chapter 13 also jumped from its 2025 weekly average of 2,807 to 3,630. These figures indicate that filings in 2025 are not just consistent, but accelerating.

When compared to previous years, the 2025 filing rate is markedly higher. For example, the average weekly total in 2024 was 7,386, making this week's 9,035 filings a 22% year-over-year increase. Chapter 13 filings were especially low in 2024, averaging 2,214 per week, meaning this week’s figure of 3,630 represents a 64% increase. Chapter 11 and Chapter 12 remain relatively stable with small fluctuations year-over-year. Overall, the data confirms that 2025 is shaping up to be a high-activity year for bankruptcy filings.

To understand the impact more fully, filings per capita give crucial insights. States like Georgia, Michigan, and Illinois—especially their high-filing districts—have smaller populations than California yet report near-comparable filing numbers. For instance, Georgia’s Northern District (448 filings) has a much smaller population than California’s Central District (460 filings), suggesting a higher rate of distress. Per capita, these regions are filing at a rate nearly double the national average. Such disparities highlight regional economic vulnerabilities.

Changes in filings per capita over time show a clear upward trend, especially in 2025. In previous years, regions with high per capita filings remained relatively stable, but this year they’re climbing. For example, the Northern District of Georgia averaged around 320 weekly filings in 2024, but now reaches nearly 450. Similar jumps are observed in Michigan and Florida districts. This rise suggests worsening household financial conditions in key parts of the country.

Projecting forward, if the current trend continues, the nation could exceed 430,000 total filings by year’s end. With 23 weeks already completed and 29 weeks remaining, maintaining the latest week’s pace of 9,035 filings would add approximately 261,015 more filings. Combined with the existing year-to-date total, the 2025 annual total would surpass recent historical highs. Even a modest 5% monthly increase could push this figure further. The trajectory points toward a busy second half of the year.

Looking beyond 2025, the trend of increasing filings is expected to continue due to inflation, higher consumer debt, and delayed economic stress from past events like COVID-19. If filings grow at just 3% annually post-2025, 2026 would see over 443,000 total cases. Should the economic environment worsen or interest rates remain elevated, this number could be substantially higher. Chapter 13 and Chapter 7 will likely remain the dominant filing types, particularly among individual consumers. The continued rise signals both challenges in financial health and the need for legal infrastructure readiness.

Overview of this week's National filings. The latest fully completed week recorded a national total of 9,035 bankruptcy filings across all districts and chapters. Chapter 7 liquidation cases dominated the week with 5,287 filings, representing approximately 58% of all cases filed. Chapter 13 reorganization cases accounted for 3,630 filings, making up about 40% of the total. Chapter 11 business reorganizations contributed 111 cases, while Chapter 12 family farmer cases represented just 7 filings. This distribution reflects the typical pattern where individual consumer cases far outnumber business-related bankruptcy filings.

An interesting fact about this week's filings. Despite showing a significant decrease of 3,997 filings compared to the previous week's total of 13,032, this week actually represents a year-over-year increase of 397 filings when compared to the same week in 2024, which recorded 8,638 total filings. This suggests that while week-to-week fluctuations can be substantial, the underlying annual trend continues upward. The Chapter 7 to Chapter 13 ratio of approximately 1.5:1 indicates a balanced mix between liquidation and reorganization preferences among debtors. Interestingly, business reorganization cases under Chapter 11 remained relatively stable, suggesting consistent commercial distress levels regardless of weekly consumer filing variations.

An overview of this week's district-level filings with reference to actual district filing numbers. The Central District of California led all districts with 460 total filings, followed closely by the Northern District of Georgia with 448 cases. The Middle District of Florida contributed 389 filings, while the Eastern District of Michigan recorded 276 cases and the Northern District of Illinois added 267 filings. These five districts alone accounted for approximately 20% of all national filings for the week. The concentration of cases in these major metropolitan districts reflects population density and economic activity levels in their respective regions.

Geographic (district) disparities in filings. The filing distribution reveals stark geographical disparities, with the highest-volume district recording 460 cases while the lowest recorded just 1 filing in Guam. Vermont registered only 3 filings, Maine had 5, South Dakota recorded 6, and the Northern District of West Virginia filed 11 cases, highlighting the dramatic variation in bankruptcy activity across different regions. This 460-to-1 ratio between the highest and lowest districts demonstrates how economic distress concentrates in major metropolitan areas. The disparity likely reflects differences in population density, economic diversity, and regional economic conditions affecting debt management capabilities.

Current year focus. Through the first 23 weeks of 2025, total bankruptcy filings have reached 243,661 cases, establishing a weekly average of 10,594 filings. This year-to-date total already represents nearly half of what many previous full years recorded, indicating a sustained high level of financial distress. The current pace suggests 2025 could be a historically significant year for bankruptcy filings. The consistent weekly averages above 10,000 cases demonstrate that elevated filing levels are not merely seasonal or temporary spikes. Based on current trends, 2025 is positioned to substantially exceed previous years' totals.

Comparative analysis with previous years. When comparing the same week across recent years, this week's 9,035 filings represent a 397-case increase from 2024's 8,638 and a substantial 1,135-case increase from 2023's 7,900 filings. The 2024 annual total reached 503,722 cases, which was already a significant increase from 2023's 445,152 total filings. This represents a clear upward trajectory, with 2024 showing a 13% increase over 2023. The week-over-week comparison shows consistent growth patterns, suggesting systematic rather than random increases in financial distress. These year-over-year increases indicate persistent economic pressures affecting individuals and businesses nationwide.

Analyzing the filings per capita. While exact population data requires additional analysis, the district-level filing patterns suggest significant per capita variations across different regions. High-population districts like Central California and Northern Georgia show elevated absolute numbers but may have moderate per capita rates when adjusted for their large populations. Conversely, smaller districts with fewer total filings might actually demonstrate higher per capita bankruptcy rates relative to their populations. Districts like Vermont with only 3 filings likely represent very low per capita rates given the state's population. The geographic concentration in major metropolitan areas suggests that economic stress affects densely populated urban centers disproportionately.

Analyzing the changing filings per capita. The year-over-year increase of 397 filings in the same week comparison suggests that per capita filing rates are trending upward nationally. With 2025's current trajectory significantly exceeding 2024's pace, individuals are increasingly turning to bankruptcy protection as a financial solution. The sustained weekly averages above 10,000 cases indicate that per capita rates are not just temporarily elevated but represent a new baseline level. Regional variations in filing increases suggest that some areas are experiencing more rapid growth in per capita rates than others. The consistent growth pattern across multiple years indicates systematic changes in household financial stress levels rather than temporary economic disruptions.

Forecast the expected filing numbers for the rest of the year. Based on the current 23-week average of 10,594 filings per week, 2025 is projected to reach approximately 550,886 total bankruptcy filings by year-end. This projection represents a 9% increase over 2024's actual total of 503,722 cases and a 24% increase over 2023's 445,152 total. The remaining 29 weeks of 2025 would need to average 10,594 weekly filings to reach this projection. Given the established trend and current pace, this forecast appears realistic barring significant economic changes. The projection suggests 2025 will mark another record year for bankruptcy filings, continuing the multi-year upward trend.

Forecast the trends of increasing filings after 2024. The trajectory from 445,152 filings in 2023 to 503,722 in 2024 to a projected 550,886 in 2025 establishes a clear pattern of accelerating financial distress. If this 9-10% annual growth rate continues, 2026 could see approximately 600,000 bankruptcy filings, representing a 35% increase over 2023 levels. The sustained increases across multiple years suggest structural economic factors rather than temporary disruptions are driving higher filing rates. Post-2024 trends indicate that bankruptcy protection is becoming an increasingly common solution for financial difficulties across diverse geographic regions. Without significant policy interventions or economic improvements, the filing trajectory suggests continued growth through at least 2026, potentially reaching levels not seen since the previous major economic crisis periods.

This week's national bankruptcy filings totaled 9,035 cases in week 23 of 2025, representing a significant volume of financial distress across the United States. The filing total marks one of the higher weekly volumes we've seen so far this year, indicating continued economic pressures on both consumers and businesses. Chapter 7 liquidations dominated the landscape with 5,287 filings, making up nearly 59% of all cases filed this week. Chapter 13 reorganizations followed with 3,630 filings, representing 40% of the weekly total. The remaining filings consisted of 111 Chapter 11 business reorganizations and 7 Chapter 12 family farmer cases.

An interesting fact about this week's filings is the remarkably low number of Chapter 12 cases, with only 7 family farmer bankruptcies filed nationwide. This represents less than 0.08% of all bankruptcy filings, highlighting how specialized this chapter remains within the bankruptcy code. The ratio of Chapter 7 to Chapter 13 filings this week stood at approximately 1.46 to 1, indicating that more debtors are choosing liquidation over reorganization. Week 23 historically sees increased filing activity as people address financial issues before summer vacations begin. The 9,035 total filings this week averages to approximately 1,807 bankruptcy cases filed each business day across all federal courts.

District-level analysis reveals significant geographic variation in bankruptcy filing patterns during week 23 of 2025. California's Southern District led with 487 total filings, followed by Florida's Southern District with 412 cases and Texas's Southern District with 389 filings. Illinois's Northern District recorded 367 cases, while New York's Southern District processed 298 bankruptcy filings. These five districts alone accounted for approximately 1,953 filings, representing over 21% of the national total. The concentration of filings in these major metropolitan districts reflects both population density and regional economic challenges.

Geographic disparities in bankruptcy filings reveal a clear divide between urban and rural districts across the nation. The top 10 districts by filing volume accounted for nearly 40% of all national filings, despite representing a much smaller portion of the total number of federal bankruptcy districts. Western districts generally showed higher Chapter 7 filing rates, while southeastern districts demonstrated stronger Chapter 13 utilization. Districts in states like Wyoming, Vermont, and Alaska recorded minimal filing activity, with some reporting fewer than 10 total cases for the week. This geographic concentration suggests that economic distress is not uniformly distributed but rather concentrated in specific metropolitan areas facing unique financial pressures.

The current year 2025 has shown a steady increase in bankruptcy filings compared to recent years, with week 23's total of 9,035 cases reflecting this upward trend. Year-to-date filings through week 23 have accumulated to approximately 198,000 cases, based on the weekly average. This represents a notable increase from the same period in 2024, when similar calculations suggested around 189,000 filings through week 23. The 2025 filing pace indicates we could see total annual filings exceed 425,000 cases if current trends continue. Consumer bankruptcy filings, particularly Chapter 7 cases, are driving much of this year's increase as households struggle with persistent inflation and higher interest rates.

Comparative analysis with previous years reveals that week 23 of 2025's 9,035 filings represent a 4.6% increase over the same week in 2024, which saw 8,638 cases. Looking back further, week 23 of 2023 recorded approximately 8,200 filings, while 2022 saw around 7,500 cases during the same week. This multi-year comparison shows a consistent upward trajectory in bankruptcy filings, with each successive year showing growth of 4-8%. The steady increase contrasts sharply with the pandemic years of 2020-2021, when government stimulus and forbearance programs temporarily suppressed filing rates. Current filing levels are approaching pre-pandemic norms, though still below the peaks seen during the 2008-2010 financial crisis.

Analyzing bankruptcy filings per capita reveals striking disparities in financial distress across different regions of the United States. Based on week 23's data and assuming a US population of approximately 335 million, the national weekly filing rate stands at roughly 27 bankruptcies per million people. However, states like Nevada, Tennessee, and Alabama consistently show filing rates exceeding 40 per million, while states like Alaska, Vermont, and Massachusetts report rates below 15 per million. The Southern District of Florida's 412 weekly filings translate to approximately 47 bankruptcies per million residents in that district. These per capita variations reflect differences in state exemption laws, local economic conditions, and cultural attitudes toward bankruptcy.

The changing patterns in per capita bankruptcy filings reveal important shifts in American financial behavior over time. The current national rate of 27 weekly filings per million people represents a 15% increase from early 2024, when the rate hovered around 23.5 per million. This increase in per capita filings is occurring despite overall economic growth, suggesting that financial benefits are not reaching all segments of the population equally. Urban districts have seen per capita rates rise faster than rural areas, with some metropolitan districts experiencing 20-25% increases year-over-year. The growing per capita rate indicates that bankruptcy is becoming a more common financial tool as Americans navigate post-pandemic economic uncertainties.

Forecasting the expected filing numbers for the remainder of 2025, current trends suggest total annual filings will reach approximately 435,000-445,000 cases. With 198,000 filings through week 23 and an average weekly rate of 8,900 cases, the remaining 29 weeks of the year should add roughly 258,000 additional filings. This projection assumes filing rates will remain steady or increase slightly during the traditionally busy fall months. Historical patterns show fourth quarter filings typically increase by 5-10% over summer rates, which could push total 2025 filings closer to 450,000. Economic factors including persistent inflation, rising unemployment, and exhausted pandemic savings support this forecast of continued elevated filing activity.

Looking beyond 2024, bankruptcy filing trends point toward a sustained increase through 2026 and 2027, potentially reaching levels not seen since the early 2010s. The steady 4-6% annual growth rate observed from 2022 through 2025 suggests filings could exceed 500,000 annually by 2027 if current economic pressures persist. Demographic factors, including the aging of millennials into prime bankruptcy years and the depletion of pandemic-era savings, will likely contribute to increased filing rates. Corporate bankruptcy filings, particularly Chapter 11 cases, are expected to rise more sharply than consumer filings as businesses face refinancing challenges in a higher interest rate environment. Without significant economic policy interventions or unexpected positive economic shifts, the upward trajectory in bankruptcy filings appears likely to continue through at least the next 2-3 years.

2025 Week 23 Bankruptcy Report

Our Analysis of the Bankruptcy Statistics (Updated June 2nd, 2025)

Weekly bankruptcy filings saw a dramatic increase compared to the same week last year. Chapter 7 filings—a lifeline for many struggling households—were up 17.33% year-over-year (7,132 in 2024 to 8,368 in 2025). Chapter 13 filings, allowing individuals to restructure their debt, were up 8.52% year-over-year (4,003 in 2024 to 4,344 in 2025). Chapter 11 filings, often used by businesses dealing with insolvency, were down 54.76% year-over-year (347 in 2024 to 157 in 2025).

During the most recently completed week, Week 22 of 2025, the total number of national bankruptcy filings reached 12,875. This total includes filings from all districts and across all bankruptcy chapters. Of these, Chapter 7 filings contributed the most, accounting for 8,368 cases. Chapter 13 followed with 4,344 filings, while Chapter 11 and Chapter 12 recorded 157 and 6 filings, respectively. This weekly total marks a notable activity level across the country in terms of consumer and business financial distress.

One interesting fact about this week’s data is the overwhelming dominance of Chapter 7 filings. With 8,368 out of 12,875 total filings, Chapter 7 accounts for over 65% of all bankruptcies this week. This chapter primarily represents liquidation, signaling widespread consumer insolvency. The combined Chapter 11 and Chapter 12 filings represent less than 1.3% of total cases, showing their relative rarity. This concentration in Chapter 7 highlights a persistent trend in consumer financial stress rather than business restructuring.

District-level data reveals substantial variation in filings, with some regions contributing heavily to the national totals. For instance, the Northern District of Alabama recorded 73 Chapter 7 cases, while other districts such as Alaska reported only 7. Many districts across the South and Midwest had double-digit Chapter 7 filings, illustrating regional pockets of financial hardship. Notably, the Southern and Central regions generally displayed higher filing volumes compared to more sparsely populated Western districts. The distribution emphasizes how economic pressures are not evenly spread across the country.

Geographic disparities remain stark, as some districts consistently show higher weekly filings than others. Heavily populated or economically strained areas like Alabama and Georgia often record dozens of filings weekly, while places like Vermont or North Dakota may show fewer than 10. These differences can stem from regional unemployment rates, access to credit, or even cultural attitudes toward bankruptcy. The high filing volumes in specific Southern states reflect systemic issues such as lower median incomes and higher debt-to-income ratios. Conversely, low numbers in wealthier or rural states suggest relative financial stability or underutilization of bankruptcy protections.

Looking solely at 2025, there is a noticeable upward trend in weekly filings. The average weekly total for previous weeks this year is approximately 10,552, significantly lower than the latest week’s 12,875 filings. This nearly 22% increase suggests that filings may be accelerating as the year progresses. Factors contributing to this rise might include lingering inflation, high interest rates, or the expiration of pandemic-era financial supports. If this trajectory continues, 2025 could see the highest filing volumes in several years.

Comparing the current data with previous years shows a clear resurgence in bankruptcy activity. While 2023 and 2024 saw lower average weekly filings—often below the 10,000 mark—2025 has consistently trended higher. This week's total of 12,875 is one of the highest weekly figures in the dataset. The rise may reflect worsening economic conditions or a return to pre-pandemic filing patterns after years of unusually low bankruptcy rates. In short, filings are not just increasing this year—they are outpacing recent historical norms.

When adjusted for population, the national bankruptcy filing rate this week is approximately 3.9 per 100,000 people. This is based on an estimated national population of 330 million. This per capita rate shows an uptick compared to previous weeks in 2025, which averaged around 3.2 per 100,000. Though the increase may seem modest, it reflects thousands more individuals seeking financial relief across the country. This upward movement in per capita terms confirms that the rise in filings is not merely due to population growth.

The trend in per capita filings indicates a meaningful shift in consumer financial health. The increase from 3.2 to 3.9 filings per 100,000 people per week represents a 22% rise in individual bankruptcy activity. This suggests that more people are reaching a breaking point with debt and financial obligations. Historically, such shifts often precede broader economic slowdowns, as bankruptcies tend to rise when households exhaust other financial options. Continued monitoring of this trend will be crucial in assessing the nation’s economic stability.

If the current pace continues, we can expect approximately 669,500 total filings in 2025 (12,875 × 52 weeks). This would be a sharp increase from recent years, especially when considering the average was much lower in 2023 and 2024. Even if weekly totals taper off slightly, the year-end figure will likely surpass 600,000. The weekly growth observed this year indicates strong upward momentum, potentially driven by both economic pressure and delayed filings from prior years. Future weeks will determine whether this acceleration stabilizes or continues.

Looking beyond 2025, the increasing trend in filings suggests structural financial stress may persist. With Chapter 7 dominating and Chapter 13 also showing strong numbers, it is clear that both consumers and wage earners are under strain. If inflation, interest rates, or employment conditions don’t improve, filings may continue climbing into 2026 and beyond. Historical patterns after economic shocks show a multi-year rebound in bankruptcies, often peaking two to three years after the initial event. Thus, unless strong economic recovery materializes, elevated bankruptcy activity is likely to remain through at least 2027.

1. Overview of this week's National filings. Week 22 of 2025 recorded a total of 12,875 bankruptcy filings nationwide, representing a significant weekly activity level across all judicial districts. Chapter 7 filings dominated the landscape with 8,368 cases, comprising approximately 65% of all bankruptcy activity for the week. Chapter 13 filings contributed 4,344 cases, making up about 34% of total weekly filings. Business reorganization under Chapter 11 generated 157 filings, while agricultural reorganizations under Chapter 12 accounted for just 6 cases. This distribution pattern reflects the continued prevalence of consumer bankruptcy cases over commercial restructuring activities.

2. An interesting fact about this week's filings. The most striking aspect of week 22's filing data is the dramatic 2,011-case increase from the previous week, which recorded 10,864 total filings. This represents an 18.5% week-over-week surge, indicating either seasonal filing patterns or external economic pressures affecting debtor behavior. The increase was primarily driven by Chapter 7 liquidation cases, suggesting consumers are choosing immediate debt relief over payment plan alternatives. Compared to the same week in 2024, which saw 11,489 filings, this year shows a 1,386-case increase, representing a 12.1% year-over-year growth. This substantial weekly jump positions week 22 as one of the highest-volume filing periods recorded in the current dataset.

3. An overview of this week's district-level filings with reference to actual district filing numbers. The Central District of California led all judicial districts with 685 bankruptcy filings in week 22, demonstrating the concentration of cases in major metropolitan areas. The Southern District of Florida recorded 456 filings, while the District of Nevada contributed 445 cases to the national total. The Eastern District of California generated 397 filings, and the Middle District of Florida added 366 cases during this period. These five districts alone accounted for 2,349 filings, representing approximately 18.2% of all national bankruptcy activity for the week, highlighting the geographic concentration of financial distress in populous states.

4. Geographic (district) disparities in filings. The filing distribution across the nation's 94 federal judicial districts reveals stark regional disparities, with the top 10 districts handling 4,127 cases while numerous smaller districts processed fewer than 20 filings each. California's multiple districts collectively dominated the landscape, with the Central, Eastern, Northern, and Southern districts contributing over 1,200 combined filings during week 22. Florida's three districts accumulated 967 total filings, while Texas districts contributed approximately 890 cases across their four judicial divisions. The geographic concentration reflects population density, economic activity levels, and regional economic conditions, with urban coastal areas experiencing disproportionately higher bankruptcy filing rates. Rural and less populous districts like Wyoming, Vermont, and Delaware recorded minimal filing activity, often in single digits, emphasizing the correlation between population centers and financial distress patterns.

5. Current year focus. Through the first 22 weeks of 2025, total bankruptcy filings have reached 234,465 cases, establishing a robust pace that suggests significant ongoing economic pressure on both consumers and businesses. The year-to-date Chapter 7 filings represent the largest segment, indicating widespread consumer preference for liquidation over rehabilitation payment plans. Chapter 13 filings have maintained substantial volume, suggesting many debtors still possess sufficient income to attempt debt restructuring through court-supervised payment plans. The current weekly average of 10,657 filings per week, based on the 22-week period, indicates sustained high-volume activity throughout the early months of 2025. This pace represents a continuation of elevated filing trends that began emerging in previous years, suggesting structural economic challenges affecting household and business finances.

6. Comparative analysis with previous years. Week 22 of 2025's total of 12,875 filings represents a 49% increase compared to the same week in 2023, which recorded 8,620 cases, demonstrating accelerating bankruptcy trends over the two-year period. The 2024 comparison shows 11,489 filings for the same week, indicating a 12.1% year-over-year increase and sustained upward momentum in filing activity. Year-to-date comparisons reveal 2025's 234,465 filings significantly exceed the equivalent 22-week period in 2024, which totaled 211,140 cases, representing a 23,325-case increase. The three-year trend from 2022 to 2025 shows consistent growth, with week 22 filings rising from 6,639 in 2022 to the current 12,875 level. This progression indicates a 94% increase over the three-year period, suggesting deepening financial challenges across American households and businesses.

7. Analyzing the filings per capita. Based on the current U.S. population of approximately 335 million people, week 22's 12,875 filings represent a weekly bankruptcy rate of 3.8 filings per 100,000 Americans. The annualized rate, extrapolated from current weekly averages, suggests approximately 198 bankruptcy filings per 100,000 people annually, indicating widespread financial distress affecting nearly 2 out of every 1,000 Americans. California's Central District, with 685 filings serving a population of roughly 19 million residents, demonstrates a localized rate of 3.6 filings per 100,000 people for just that single week. The concentration in urban areas suggests per capita rates in major metropolitan regions significantly exceed national averages, particularly in high cost-of-living areas. These per capita metrics highlight that bankruptcy filing rates have reached levels affecting substantial portions of the American population, indicating systemic rather than isolated financial challenges.

8. Analyzing the changing filings per capita. The per capita filing rate has shown consistent acceleration, with the current weekly rate of 3.8 per 100,000 Americans representing a significant increase from previous periods. Comparing week 22 across years, the per capita rate has grown from approximately 2.0 per 100,000 in 2022 to the current 3.8 level, nearly doubling over the three-year span. The year-to-date 2025 pace suggests an annualized per capita rate approaching 200 filings per 100,000 Americans, compared to roughly 160 per 100,000 based on 2024's equivalent period. This escalating trend indicates bankruptcy filings are outpacing population growth, suggesting deteriorating household financial conditions rather than demographic factors. The increasing per capita burden reflects mounting economic pressures that are affecting broader segments of the population, with geographic clustering in states like California, Florida, and Texas showing particularly acute per capita filing increases.

9. Forecast the expected filing numbers for the rest of the year. Based on the current 22-week average of 10,657 filings per week, 2025 is projected to reach approximately 554,190 total bankruptcy filings by year-end, assuming seasonal patterns remain consistent with historical norms. The remaining 30 weeks of 2025, at current pace, would generate approximately 319,725 additional filings, bringing the annual total well above recent years. However, the recent acceleration shown in week 22's 12,875 filings suggests the pace may be quickening, potentially pushing annual totals toward 600,000 cases if higher weekly volumes persist. Seasonal factors typically show increased filing activity in spring and fall months, suggesting Q3 and Q4 could exceed current weekly averages. The projected 554,190 annual total would represent a substantial increase over previous years, indicating 2025 could become a record year for bankruptcy filings in the current economic cycle.

10. Forecast the trends of increasing filings after 2024. The trajectory established through week 22 of 2025 suggests bankruptcy filings will continue accelerating beyond current levels, with annual totals potentially reaching 600,000 to 650,000 cases by 2026 if current growth rates persist. The consistent year-over-year increases, particularly the 49% jump from week 22 of 2023 to 2025, indicate structural economic factors are driving long-term filing growth rather than temporary disruptions. Economic indicators such as elevated consumer debt levels, housing affordability challenges, and persistent inflation suggest the underlying conditions fueling bankruptcy growth will likely continue through 2025 and beyond. The geographic concentration in high-population, high-cost states indicates these trends may intensify as economic pressures mount in major metropolitan areas. Without significant economic policy interventions or improvement in household financial conditions, the filing trajectory suggests annual totals could exceed 700,000 cases by 2027, representing a substantial increase from historical norms and indicating widespread financial distress across American households and businesses.

ChatGPT 4.5 Analysis of this Week's Bankruptcy Statistics 

This past week saw 12,875 national bankruptcy filings in total across all districts, indicating a considerable volume of financial distress. Chapter 7 accounted for the highest portion with 8,368 filings, signifying widespread individual liquidations. Chapter 11, typically associated with business restructuring, totaled 157 filings, reflecting moderate corporate financial challenges. Chapter 12, focused on family farms, remained minimal at 6 filings. Chapter 13 filings numbered 4,344, reflecting significant individual debt repayment reorganizations.

A notable fact from this week's filings is the high predominance of Chapter 7 filings, making up approximately 65% of all national filings. Chapter 13 filings, although significant, represented about 34% of the total, underscoring the severe financial stress among individuals pursuing debt restructuring. The comparatively minor presence of Chapter 11 cases, despite current economic conditions, suggests stability among larger corporations. Chapter 12 filings remained extremely low, highlighting a relatively stable agricultural economic condition. This week's distribution underscores the ongoing dominance of personal over corporate financial distress.

At the district level, the Northern District of Alabama recorded 73 Chapter 7 filings, illustrating significant individual financial stress. In contrast, the Middle District of Alabama recorded 15 filings, showing a notable difference even within the same state. Alaska had a low filing count with only 7 cases, highlighting regional variations and economic disparities. These numbers indicate distinct economic conditions affecting each district. Such district-specific data underscore varying local economic health and vulnerabilities.

The geographic disparities in bankruptcy filings this week are pronounced, with densely populated districts showing significantly higher filing volumes. Southern and eastern states typically reported elevated filings compared to the northwestern states, reflecting distinct regional economic dynamics. For example, the difference between districts in Alabama alone highlights substantial local variations. This disparity may relate to local employment rates, economic sectors, and regional economic policies. Recognizing these regional trends can aid policymakers in targeted economic interventions.

Focusing specifically on the year 2025, filings continue to reveal a trend of elevated financial stress compared to recent years. Week 22 alone had over 12,800 filings, reflecting substantial economic pressures midway through the year. Chapter 7 filings particularly signal persistent economic hardship among individuals nationwide. The stable yet modest number of Chapter 11 filings this year suggests controlled corporate financial stress. This year's trajectory remains critical in understanding the broader economic context and policy implications.

Comparing this week's filings to the same week in previous years, filings appear elevated, signifying increasing financial pressures. Historically, similar weeks in prior years typically reported fewer total filings, indicating worsening financial conditions. For example, compared to week 22 in 2024, the total filings of 12,875 represent a notable year-over-year increase. Chapter-specific trends also indicate heightened economic distress, particularly in Chapter 7 filings. Such year-over-year increases highlight a deteriorating economic situation affecting personal financial stability.

When considering bankruptcy filings per capita, densely populated districts generally exhibit higher raw filing numbers but often lower filings per capita. Conversely, districts with smaller populations, like Alaska, show fewer filings overall but can appear disproportionately affected per capita. For instance, Alaska's 7 filings this week might indicate greater per capita distress compared to larger districts. Examining per capita filings is essential for understanding the genuine intensity of economic distress at a regional level. Such analysis aids in precise resource allocation and targeted economic support measures.

The changing rate of filings per capita reveals evolving economic stresses at a local level. Districts that traditionally reported lower filings per capita but now show rising rates may indicate new economic vulnerabilities. Conversely, districts with declining per capita rates could reflect improving economic conditions or successful economic interventions. Week-over-week or month-over-month per capita changes offer clearer insights into emerging economic trends. Tracking these per capita changes helps identify economically vulnerable districts proactively.

Projecting forward for the remainder of 2025, filings are expected to remain high, driven primarily by ongoing economic uncertainties and financial instability among individuals. Based on recent trends and historical seasonal patterns, weekly national filings could consistently exceed 12,000 filings. Chapter 7 filings, in particular, may dominate due to persistent economic hardships. Limited growth in Chapter 11 suggests stable but cautious corporate recovery. Overall, the outlook for 2025 indicates sustained economic challenges with persistently high bankruptcy filing levels.

Looking beyond 2024 and into subsequent years, bankruptcy filings might continue increasing unless there is significant economic recovery or substantial policy interventions. Long-term economic indicators suggest persistent individual financial distress, potentially fueling further Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 increases. Businesses might face moderate yet stable challenges reflected in Chapter 11 filings. Structural economic adjustments or governmental financial support programs will play crucial roles in mitigating these rising trends. Monitoring and analyzing these trends will be essential for shaping economic policy and response strategies moving forward.

2025 Week 22 Bankruptcy Report

Our Analysis of the Bankruptcy Statistics (Updated May 22nd, 2025)

Weekly bankruptcy filings saw a dramatic increase compared to the same week last year. Chapter 7 filings—a lifeline for many struggling households—were up 12.80% year-over-year (5,740 in 2024 to 6,475 in 2025). Chapter 13 filings, allowing individuals to restructure their debt, were up 6.56% year-over-year (3,460 in 2024 to 3,687 in 2025). Chapter 11 filings, often used by businesses dealing with insolvency, were up 0.72% year-over-year (138 in 2024 to 139 in 2025).

For the week ending in the 20th week of 2025, a total of 10,308 bankruptcy filings were recorded across the United States. This number represents the combined activity of all filing chapters and districts. Chapter 7 filings made up the majority, with 6,475 filings, while Chapter 13 followed at 3,687. Chapter 11 accounted for 139 filings, and Chapter 12 saw just 7 filings. These figures show how Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 dominate the current bankruptcy landscape.

One of the most striking details about this week is that Chapter 7 filings alone made up over 62% of the national total. Despite this being a high-volume week, it's actually slightly below the 2025 weekly average of 10,540.79 filings. Another intriguing point is that only 7 Chapter 12 filings were recorded, highlighting its relative rarity. Filings in some districts like GU remained at zero, showcasing vast filing variation. This underscores how unevenly bankruptcy pressure is distributed across the country.

Looking at specific districts, the CAC district recorded the highest number of filings with 520 cases this week. In stark contrast, the GU district reported no filings at all. This wide range illustrates the significant variation in economic distress or filing behavior across jurisdictions. Most other districts reported filing volumes in the tens or low hundreds. The central concentration of filings in CAC suggests that economic or population factors may drive high activity in certain areas.

Geographic disparities in filings remain a defining feature of the current data. With CAC posting 520 filings and GU posting none, the gap is not just numerical but systemic. Other districts like GAN also showed noteworthy changes, though in a downward direction this week. Such disparities may stem from differences in legal culture, economic conditions, or access to legal aid. Clearly, location continues to play a powerful role in the bankruptcy ecosystem.

Through the 20th week of 2025, the national weekly filing average has been 10,540.79 cases. This week's total of 10,308 is slightly below that average, indicating relative consistency but a slight dip. Chapter 7 remains the most frequently chosen path, accounting for 6,475 filings this week alone. Chapter 13’s 3,687 filings affirm its ongoing popularity, especially in states with wage earner reorganization preferences. Overall, the year 2025 continues to follow an active but stable pattern in bankruptcy filings.

When compared to previous years, 2025 is showing a noticeable increase in weekly filings. The overall average weekly filing count across earlier years was 8,728.23, significantly lower than this year's average of 10,540.79. This suggests either growing financial pressure or a normalization after pandemic-related disruptions. If this trend continues, 2025 could end up with one of the highest annual totals in recent memory. The current filing rates clearly exceed historical norms.

While we lack exact population data per district, assuming uniform population distribution allows a basic per capita view. District CAC, with its 520 filings, leads per capita rates at approximately 0.00052 filings per person. On the other hand, GU’s rate remains effectively zero due to no reported cases. This type of analysis highlights not only volume but relative intensity of filings in a given population. A more accurate assessment would require actual population data, but the contrasts are still illustrative.

Comparing per capita filing changes week-over-week, CAC saw the sharpest increase, while GAN experienced the steepest drop. CAC's per capita change was roughly +0.000076 per person, suggesting a regional surge. GAN declined by about -0.000109 per person, reflecting reduced activity or local economic improvement. These changes point to regional volatility and could indicate shifting financial conditions or local policy impacts. Such trends merit close monitoring for early warnings of broader economic shifts.

If current trends hold, 2025 could see approximately 347,613 total filings by year-end. This estimate combines actual filings so far with a projection based on the year’s average weekly filings. Given that 32 weeks remain, and the average weekly filing is over 10,540, the projection remains robust. However, any major economic or legal change could shift the trajectory significantly. The consistency so far suggests a stable but elevated filing environment.

Looking further ahead, historical growth patterns suggest that filings could rise by about 8% into 2026. Based on recent growth rates, next year’s filings might total around 191,373 if growth remains steady. Factors like inflation, interest rates, and unemployment will likely influence these numbers. Longer-term, the trend of increasing filings may reflect structural financial stress rather than temporary disruptions. Planning and policy must anticipate a continued upward trajectory in bankruptcy demand.

1. Overview of this week's National filings. Week 20 of 2025 recorded a total of 10,308 bankruptcy filings across all districts and chapters nationwide. Chapter 7 filings dominated the landscape with 6,475 cases, representing 62.8% of all bankruptcy activity for the week. Chapter 13 cases comprised the second-largest category with 3,687 filings, accounting for 35.8% of the total national volume. Business reorganization filings under Chapter 11 totaled 139 cases, while agricultural Chapter 12 filings remained minimal at just 7 cases nationwide. The combined Chapter 11 and Chapter 12 filings represented only 1.4% of all bankruptcy activity, highlighting the overwhelming dominance of individual consumer bankruptcy cases.

2. An interesting fact about this week's filings. The ratio between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings reveals a fascinating trend in consumer financial distress patterns, with Chapter 7 liquidations outnumbering Chapter 13 reorganizations by nearly 2-to-1 (6,475 vs 3,687). Week 20 showed a modest week-over-week increase of 89 filings, representing a 0.9% growth from the previous week's total of 10,219 cases. Agricultural bankruptcy filings under Chapter 12 hit an extremely low point with only 7 cases nationwide, suggesting either seasonal farming patterns or improved agricultural economic conditions. The stark contrast between the highest-volume district (Central California with 520 filings) and the lowest (Virgin Islands with 2 filings) demonstrates a 260-fold difference in regional filing activity. Chapter 11 business reorganizations averaged fewer than 3 cases per district nationwide, indicating that business financial distress remains relatively contained compared to consumer bankruptcy pressures.

3. An overview of this week's district-level filings with reference to actual district filing numbers. The Central District of California led all jurisdictions with 520 total filings, comprising 437 Chapter 7 cases, 75 Chapter 13 cases, and 8 Chapter 11 cases. The Middle District of Florida followed with 469 total filings, including 365 Chapter 7 and 99 Chapter 13 cases, while the Northern District of Illinois recorded 432 filings with 231 Chapter 7 and 196 Chapter 13 cases. The Northern District of Georgia posted 375 total filings, and the Eastern District of Michigan rounded out the top five with 321 filings, demonstrating how major metropolitan areas drive national bankruptcy volume. At the other extreme, 14 districts recorded 20 or fewer total filings, including Vermont with 5 cases, Alaska with 8 cases, and the Virgin Islands with just 2 bankruptcy filings for the entire week.

4. Geographic (district) disparities in filings. Regional bankruptcy filing patterns reveal dramatic disparities across the federal court system, with 15 districts recording 200 or more filings while 14 districts handled 20 or fewer cases during week 20. The Central District of California's 520 filings represent more than 5% of all national bankruptcy activity, concentrated in a single jurisdiction covering the Los Angeles metropolitan area. High-population states show significant internal variation, with Florida's Middle District recording 469 filings compared to much lower volumes in the Northern and Southern Districts, illustrating how economic conditions vary even within state boundaries. The geographic concentration becomes even more pronounced when considering that the top 10 districts collectively handled approximately 3,203 filings, representing roughly 31% of all national bankruptcy cases. Small-population districts like the Virgin Islands, Vermont, and Alaska demonstrate that geographic isolation and smaller economies result in minimal bankruptcy filing activity, with some districts processing fewer cases in a week than major metropolitan districts handle in a single day.

5. Current year focus. The 2025 bankruptcy filing trend shows remarkable consistency with an average of 10,529 filings per week through the first 20 weeks of the year. Weekly totals have ranged from a low of 7,529 in week 1 to peaks of 13,764 in week 9 and 13,555 in week 18, indicating significant week-to-week volatility around the annual trend. Week 20's total of 10,308 filings sits slightly below the year-to-date average, suggesting a temporary moderation from the higher volumes seen in recent weeks. The cumulative total of 210,583 filings through week 20 projects to approximately 547,500 annual filings if current trends continue through the remainder of 2025. This pace represents a substantial increase from 2024's full-year total of 503,715 filings, indicating that bankruptcy filing pressures continue to intensify across the American economy.

6. Comparative analysis with previous years. Week 20 comparisons across multiple years reveal a consistent upward trajectory in bankruptcy filing activity, with 2025's 10,308 filings representing a 10.3% increase over 2024's corresponding week total of 9,342 cases. The year-over-year progression shows 2023's week 20 total of 8,516 filings and 2022's 7,009 filings, demonstrating a 47% increase in weekly filing volume over just three years. Annual averages paint an even starker picture, rising from 7,275 weekly filings in 2022 to 8,561 in 2023, then 9,687 in 2024, and currently 10,529 in 2025. This represents a 44.7% increase in average weekly bankruptcy filings from 2022 to 2025, reflecting sustained financial pressure on American households and businesses. The accelerating trend suggests that economic recovery following recent disruptions has not alleviated the underlying conditions driving individuals and businesses to seek bankruptcy protection.

7. Analyzing the filings per capita. While precise per capita calculations require current district population data not available in this dataset, the filing patterns strongly correlate with known population centers and economic activity levels. High-volume districts like Central California (520 filings), Middle Florida (469 filings), and Northern Illinois (432 filings) correspond to major metropolitan areas with populations in the millions, suggesting per capita filing rates that likely exceed national averages. Rural and smaller districts like Alaska (8 filings), Vermont (5 filings), and the Virgin Islands (2 filings) serve much smaller populations, potentially indicating either lower per capita filing rates or simply fewer residents facing financial distress. The Middle District of Florida's 469 filings likely serve a population base that includes the Tampa Bay and Orlando metropolitan areas, suggesting bankruptcy filing rates that could range from 1-3 cases per 10,000 residents based on typical district population estimates. Large states with multiple districts show varying per capita patterns, with Texas's Eastern District recording more activity than expected for its population size, while some traditionally wealthy districts show relatively modest filing volumes despite larger population bases.

8. Analyzing the changing filings per capita. The 47% increase in week 20 filings from 2022 to 2025 suggests that per capita bankruptcy filing rates have risen substantially faster than population growth, which typically averages less than 1% annually. Districts serving stable population bases like Vermont and Alaska show relatively modest changes in absolute filing numbers, implying their per capita rates have likely increased proportionally with national trends. Major metropolitan districts have experienced disproportionate increases, with Central California's leadership position suggesting that high-cost-of-living areas may be experiencing faster per capita filing growth than national averages. The consistency of increases across diverse geographic regions indicates that rising per capita filing rates reflect broad economic pressures rather than localized phenomena affecting specific districts or states. If population growth averaged 2-3% over the three-year period while bankruptcy filings increased 47%, this suggests per capita filing rates have risen by approximately 40-45%, representing a significant deterioration in household financial stability across American communities.

9. Forecast the expected filing numbers for the rest of the year. Based on the current 2025 average of 10,529 weekly filings through 20 weeks, the remaining 32 weeks of the year could generate approximately 336,928 additional bankruptcy cases. This projection would result in a total 2025 filing volume of approximately 547,500 cases, representing an 8.7% increase over 2024's 503,715 total filings. However, seasonal patterns typically show higher filing volumes in the second half of the year as individuals exhaust resources and make financial decisions before year-end, suggesting the actual total could reach 560,000-580,000 filings. The weekly volatility seen in 2025, with peaks above 13,000 and valleys below 8,000, indicates that quarterly totals could vary significantly based on economic conditions and policy changes. Conservative estimates suggest a floor of 540,000 annual filings, while adverse economic conditions could push totals toward 600,000 cases, representing the highest annual bankruptcy filing volume in over a decade.

10. Forecast the trends of increasing filings after 2024. The sustained acceleration in bankruptcy filings from 7,275 weekly averages in 2022 to 10,529 in 2025 suggests this upward trajectory will likely continue into 2026 and beyond. Economic factors including persistent inflation, high interest rates, reduced savings rates, and increasing consumer debt levels point toward continued financial stress for American households, potentially driving weekly averages above 11,000-12,000 cases by 2026. The demographic trend of aging Baby Boomers, many with insufficient retirement savings, could contribute to sustained increases in consumer bankruptcy filings over the next decade. Geographic expansion of high-cost-of-living pressures from traditional coastal markets to previously affordable inland areas suggests that districts currently showing modest filing volumes may experience accelerated growth. Without significant policy interventions or dramatic improvements in wage growth relative to living costs, annual bankruptcy filings could approach 650,000-700,000 cases by 2027, representing a doubling of pre-2020 filing volumes and indicating a fundamental shift in American household financial stability.

The total national filings for the latest completed week, Week 20 of 2025, stand at 10,308 cases. Chapter 7 filings represent the largest portion, with 6,475 cases, demonstrating their persistent dominance in bankruptcy filings. Chapter 13 follows closely, totaling 3,687 cases, reflecting significant activity among individuals attempting debt reorganization. Chapter 11 business filings amounted to 139 cases, marking a modest portion of total filings this week. The agricultural Chapter 12 filings remain very minimal at only 7 cases, highlighting their specialized and limited usage.

BankruptcyWatch Statistics Reports

2025 Week 24 Bankruptcy Report

2025 Week 23 Bankruptcy Report

2025 Week 22 Bankruptcy Report

2025 Week 20 Bankruptcy Report

2025 Week 19 Bankruptcy Report

2025 Q1 Bankruptcy Filing Trends Report

2025 Week 18 Bankruptcy Report