NEW YORK–The 30,961 individual chapter 7 filings during April 2025 represented a 16% increase over the 26,781 filings recorded in April 2024, according to data provided by Epiq AACER.

Total individual bankruptcy filings increased 10% in April 2025, to 47,323, up from the April 2024 individual filing total of 43,030. The 16,246 individual chapter 13 filings in April 2025 represented a slight increase from the 16,175 individual chapter 13 filings last April, the company said.

“The 9% increase in total bankruptcy filings in April 2025, particularly the 16% surge in individual chapter 7 filings, reflects the mounting financial strain on households, elevated prices, and higher borrowing costs,” VP Michael Hunter said in a statement. “While commercial filings have softened, the uptick in small business Subchapter V elections signals persistent distress among smaller businesses navigating an uncertain economic landscape. April 2025’s data underscores a continued rise in individual bankruptcies, with 47,323 filings driven by economic pressures like inflation and geopolitical uncertainties. 

‘Ongoing Challenges’

Although commercial Chapter 11 filings declined, the 4% growth in subchapter V filings highlights the ongoing challenges for small businesses seeking relief, pointing to a broader need for accessible restructuring options.”

According to Epiq AACER, total bankruptcy filings were 49,588 in April 2025, a 9% increase from the April 2024 total of 45,615. Conversely, total April commercial filings dipped 12% to 2,265 from the 2,585 total commercial filings the previous year. 

“Commercial chapter 11 bankruptcy filings decreased 20% in April 2025, declining to 434 from the 542 filings registered in April 2024,” the company said. “Small business filings, however, captured as subchapter V elections within chapter 11, increased 4% in April 2025, to 218 from the 210 filings recorded in April 2024.