Why Unemployment Didn't Trigger More Bankruptcies

Knowledge at Wharton

  • Sep 16, 2026
  • 1:01
  • Short

During COVID, unemployment surged but personal bankruptcy filings declined.

Sasha Indarte, Wharton Assistant Professor of Finance, explains how expanded benefits, stimulus checks, and payment pauses gave households alternatives to bankruptcy.

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Brief Summary

COVID financial support reduced bankruptcy filings despite rising unemployment.

Key points

  • COVID's Economic Impact. During COVID, bankruptcies declined despite rising unemployment due to financial support measures.

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