However, officials say the 2,763 filings in the metro area represent a 35 percent increase compared with May 2009.

Experts say soft housing prices, a bleak employment scenario and other financial issues continue to plague many Phoenix-area residents.

Chapter 7 filings, which provide a fresh financial start for debtors, accounted for 83 percent of the total. That's the third straight month that they've been above 80 percent.