US bankruptcy filings rose 11% in the first nine months of 2026 to 469,719, with small business Subchapter V filings up 46% year over year. ABI's Amy Quackenboss cites elevated borrowing costs and inf

What happened: US bankruptcy filings totaled 469,719 in the first nine months of 2026, up 11 percent from the same period last year, the American Bankruptcy Institute said on Oct. 8. Key numbers: 469,719 total filings. Individuals 444,252. Why it matters: Epiq AACER cited higher borrowing costs, rising household expenses, delinquencies, and a softer job market. ABI said small businesses face persistent inflationary pressures and elevated borrowing costs. Cornerstone Research pointed to high interest rates and regulatory uncertainty as drivers of large corporate distress. Coverage: 6 outlets in 24h

US bankruptcy filings totaled 469,719 in the first nine months of 2026, up 11 percent from the same period last year, the American Bankruptcy Institute said on Oct. 8.

Epiq AACER cited higher borrowing costs, rising household expenses, delinquencies, and a softer job market. ABI said small businesses face persistent inflationary pressures and elevated borrowing costs. Cornerstone Research pointed to high interest rates and regulatory uncertainty as drivers of large corporate distress.