France Sees 10.8% Rise in Household Overindebtedness Cases in 2024

Financial strain continues to impact vulnerable populations, with credit to consumption and inflation cited as key drivers of rising debt filings.

The number of overindebtedness cases filed with the Banque de France in 2024 increased by 10.8% compared to 2023, reaching 134,803 cases.
Despite the recent rise, the number of filings remains 6% lower than pre-pandemic levels in 2019 and 42% lower than a decade ago, reflecting long-term progress.
Individuals filing for overindebtedness are predominantly low-income earners, with 59% living below the poverty line, 88% being renters or living rent-free, and 43% of debts tied to consumer credit.
The Banque de France attributes the increase to delayed effects of inflation on household budgets, though the impact of unemployment and inflation trends in 2025 remains uncertain.
In January 2025, overindebtedness filings rose by 4.6% compared to the same month in 2024, signaling continued financial challenges for many households.