Private insolvencies rise to nearly 108,000 cases in 2025
Germany recorded nearly 108,000 private insolvencies in 2025, a 7.8% increase from the previous year. Rising living costs significantly impact younger and older individuals.
Germany saw a significant increase in private insolvencies in 2025, reaching approximately 107,816 cases. This figure, reported by information service provider CRIF in its "Debt Barometer 2025," marks a 7.8% rise compared to 2024.
The surge in insolvencies is attributed to persistent high energy and food prices, which have strained household finances. CRIF Managing Director Dr. Frank Schlein stated that rising living costs and limited incomes are depleting savings and making it difficult for many individuals to meet regular financial obligations.
The report highlights a notable increase among young adults and individuals aged 61 and above. Bankruptcies for 18-20 year olds rose by 52.6%, and for 21-30 year olds by 28.6%, linked to lower financial resilience and increased use of installment and "buy now, pay later" schemes. For those over 61, insolvencies grew by 10.6%, driven by higher housing and energy costs and stagnating pensions.
Regionally, northern German states continued to show higher insolvency rates, with Bremen having the most cases per capita. The most significant percentage increases were observed in Saarland (+21.8%) and Baden-Württemberg (+17.0%). CRIF forecasts that private insolvencies will remain elevated in 2026, anticipating around 110,000 cases.