Brazil had 84.2 million people with overdue debts in September, the highest total since Serasa began tracking the figures in 2016. The number represents 51.1% of the adult population, crossing the halfway mark for the first time, according to the company’s Map of Delinquency and Debt Renegotiation.
Overdue debt totaled R$597.4 billion, up 0.90% from August. The debts numbered 352.7 million, an average of 4.2 per person. Each delinquent borrower owed an average of R$7,093.83, while the average debt was R$1,693.68.
Serasa reported that the number of people behind on payments rose 6% between September 2025 and September 2026, and has increased 34.17% since 2020. The company said the pace of growth has slowed since April, although the total continues to rise.
Banks and credit cards remained the largest category of debt, accounting for 27.16% of the total. Financial companies moved into second place for the first time, with a 20.66% share, up from 20.14%. Their share surpassed that of essential water, electricity and gas bills, which fell from 20.71% to 20.32%.
Serasa is also holding the 36th edition of its Feirão Limpa Nome debt-renegotiation campaign. The company says the event includes 3,300 partner businesses and more than 750 million offers, 14% more than last year, with discounts of up to 99%.
Negotiations run through December 6 on Serasa’s website and app. In-person service is available at more than 7,000 Correios branches, free of charge, with an official photo ID.
Sources: Folha Mercado.