Kronofogdemyndigheten

Kronofogdemyndigheten, commonly referred to as Kronofogden, is a Swedish government agency under the Ministry of Justice. Its primary function is to enforce civil-law decisions and ensure effective collection of debts, as well as compliance with court orders and government decisions.

Its main tasks include debt collection for individuals and businesses, processing and enforcing payment orders (betalningsföreläggande), distraint (utmätning) and wage garnishment, as well as seizure and sale of assets when necessary. The authority also enforces court decisions and other administrative decisions issued by public authorities.

In addition, Kronofogdemyndigheten administers skuldsanering, a formal program for individuals with long-term unsustainable debt, under a court-approved plan. The agency provides information and guidance to creditors and debtors and conducts tracing to locate debtors and assets as part of enforcement.

Organisation and oversight: Kronofogdemyndigheten operates under the Ministry of Justice and is organized into central and regional units that coordinate enforcement across Sweden. Enforceable decisions are carried out in accordance with Swedish law, and the agency collaborates with courts, police when necessary, and other authorities to carry out enforcement.

Public and international aspects: The agency publishes information about procedures and requirements, and cooperates with foreign authorities on cross-border enforcement in matters involving debt collection across borders.

Goal: Kronofogdemyndigheten aims to balance the interests of creditors and debtors, ensuring lawful, proportional, and effective enforcement and promoting compliance with civil-law obligations.