The 'I Declare Bankruptcy' meme originates from the Season 4 episode of the hit sitcom The Office, titled 'Money.' In this scene, Michael Scott, facing severe financial debt, takes Creed Bratton’s literal advice to declare bankruptcy by walking into the middle of the office and shouting the phrase at the top of his lungs. The meme is widely used to humorously represent moments of financial stress, total defeat, or situations where someone expects a simple declaration to solve a complex problem. Its popularity persists due to Steve Carell's iconic delivery and its relatability in the face of modern financial struggles.