Bankruptcies climb, but not as sharply.

WASHINGTON -- The number of Americans filing for personal bankruptcy climbed in the 12 months through June 30, but the increase was not as sharp as in 1991, the American Financial Services Association reported.

Based on statistics from the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, the association said nonbusiness bankruptcy filings in the 12 months totaled 899,840, up 10.9% from the previous 12 months.

The increase for calendar year 1991 was 21.5%, to 872,438. The first-quarter 1992 figure of 233,973 was up 10% from the 1991 period.

If the 1992 increase stays at around 10%, the total would not surpass 1 million, as some experts have feared. But filings are still increasing by more than 20% in the second and third court circuits, which encompass New York, Pennsylvania, and nearby states.

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