This database reports the number of bankruptcies by type (i.e., chapter of the bankruptcy code) and the rate per 1,000 population. Totals reflect total filings by county and state of residence for twelve-month periods ending quarterly. For example, the number of bankruptcies in the third quarter of 1998 reflects the total number of filings from Oct. 1, 1997-Sep. 30, 1998.  

U.S. filings include those by persons who reside outside the home state or outside the U.S.  In any quarter, a small number of Chapter 9 (generally about 20) and Chapter 15 filings (generally about 60-80) are not attributed to any specific court or county.  

The source for population data used to calculate per capita rates is RAND State Statistics, based on U.S. Census data. Population is estimated for some time periods.  Per capita rates are not available for U.S. territories.