The state of Massachusett has seen a spike of 35% in Chapter 7 filings in the last nine months.  There were 11,872 Chapter 7 filings from January through September compared to 8,777 filing during the same period a year earlier.

This year’s bankruptcy-filing totals are the state’s highest since 2005, when federally mandated changed to the bankrutpcy laws triggered a flurry of filings.

A growing number of people are being forced into bankruptcy because job losses and salry cutes have made it difficult for them to pay their bills.  Some have relied on credit cards to pay for even basic living expenses and now are seeking protection.