During the first half of 2023, the Kronofogden received 609,000 claims for unpaid debts, so-called applications for payment orders. This means an increase of roughly twelve percent compared to the same period last year.
During the period, the total debt amount in the claims amounted to SEK 14.6 billion, which is the highest figure ever and an increase of SEK 3.8 billion, or 35 percent, compared to the same period in 2022.
– It is very serious and very worrying. We have lived well for many years and then inflation came with higher interest rates and higher food prices. Then it will be more difficult to pay the bills that come in, says Davor Vuleta, personal finance spokesperson at Kronofogden.
Increases at all ages
The number of people who end up with the Crown Enforcement has also increased by around six percent, the new figures show. Debt is increasing in all age groups.
– If you have lived with small financial margins and the expenses go up, while the income is not affected, then there will be a problem. And then the debts can be sent to the Kronofogden, says Davor Vuleta.
Debts between SEK 100,000 and 500,000 have increased by SEK 2 billion compared to the first half of 2022, which is more than half of the total increase in the amount of debt. Banks, credit companies and companies that buy past due debts are behind the increase.
The bailiff appeals
However, half of the debts submitted to the Crown Bailiff are under SEK 3,000, which after fees means an original amount of around SEK 2,000.
– We want to appeal to the population to try to solve it in another way. Seek help, seek contact with budget and debt counseling in the municipalities, ask friends and family, says Davor Vuleta and continues:
– Ending up with the Bailiff for a debt of 2000 or less can cause so much when we go in with coercive measures, wage garnishments and possible payment notices set by credit reporting companies. Then you can’t borrow, you can’t rent, you can’t live a normal life. You become financially excluded.
Debt has increased most among those over 65. It has increased the most among women over 65, by as much as 21 percent.