The number of debt restructuring applications has increased in most of Skåne's municipalities, primarily in Malmö and Helsingborg (see fact box). By the end of June, 1755 scans had submitted an application.

- Debt settlement has become more well-known as the municipalities' debt advisers have become more. It is easier to get credit today and many do not save a buffer before shopping, says Per-Olof Lindh, unit manager at Kronofogden in Malmö.

About 60 percent of those applying for debt restructuring receive it.

Divorce, illness and unemployment are the main reasons why people have been indebted, according to an analysis by the Crown Magistrate.

- Most applicants are between 35-55 years and have been involved in a life event. They may be in a rental right, are single parents and have gotten rid of their work, says Per-Olof Lindh.

Subsistence

Anyone granted debt restructuring may live on a minimum of five years. After that, the debt is written off to the companies, institutes or authorities to which the person owes money.

One of the basic requirements is that applicants should not be able to pay off their debt for the foreseeable future. It is usually a ten-year period.

"You must not have any debts due to crime, must not have an ongoing abuse or have gone shopping during the past year," says Per-Olof Lindh.

Will the number of debt relief applicants continue to increase?

- I think we will see a continued increase compared to today, when interest rates and unemployment rise, says Lars-Olof Lindh.