At year-end, there were 9,145 people in the county who had debts with Kronofogden. This corresponds to 3.2 per cent of the population in Jönköping County. In the country as a whole, this percentage is 3.8 percent.

The highest proportion of debtors in the county is in Nässjö with 4 percent. Habo municipality has the lowest share of 1.8 per cent.

On the other hand, the total debt at Kronofogden in the county increased from SEK 1.75 billion to SEK 1.86 billion.

Risk of more indebted future

At national level, the number of debtors has not been so low since 1991. At year-end, 397,161 persons were registered with Kronofogden. This was 16,751 fewer than last year.

The Authority has identified three main reasons for the reduction in the number of debtors.

- First, we have granted record debt restructuring. Secondly, the debt to the state decreases, mainly as a result of the abolition of the radio and television fees, but also because fewer people receive vehicle debt and maintenance support debt. Thirdly, the low interest rates and the relatively strong economic climate contribute to people being well placed to meet their financial commitments, says Johan Krantz, an analyst at Kronofogden in a press release.

He sees a risk that the number of debtors may increase if there is a clearer economic downturn.