Poland has 1.9 mln consumers with PLN 40.4 bln in debt
Poland’s National Debt Register lists 1.9 mln consumers with a combined PLN 40.4 bln in overdue debt. The average debtor owes PLN 21,500, while people aged 36–55 account for 60% of all arrears.
Debt collectors hear explanations ranging from genuine financial hardship and illness to forgotten deadlines, family obligations, vacations, and seasonal spending. Negotiators must determine whether someone faces a real crisis or is repeatedly avoiding payment. Their goal is to agree on a realistic repayment plan with a specific date and amount.
Some debtors blame relatives, accountants, or unpaid customers, but legal responsibility usually remains with the person who signed the agreement. Experts stress that empathy can support repayment, but debts do not disappear, and repeated delays can turn small arrears into long-term financial problems.
