Some offers on this page are from advertisers who pay us, which may affect which products we write about, but not our recommendations. See our Advertiser Disclosure.
Growing credit card balances are a reality for many Americans in 2026.
Since the second quarter of 2025, U.S. credit card balances have increased from $1.21 trillion to $1.26 trillion, according to the New York Fed's Household Debt and Credit Report. Experian data shows average consumer credit card balances are also up slightly, from $6,618 in 2025 to $6,659 today.
But debt doesn't look the same for everyone.
In many ways, today's credit card debt story mirrors the divide **** ociated with the K-shaped economy: Higher-income consumers are more willing to carry a balance to fund their goals, while lower-income consumers may be accumulating debt out of necessity or unable to access credit at all.
#income #disclosure
Growing credit card balances are a reality for many Americans in 2026.
Since the second quarter of 2025, U.S. credit card balances have increased from $1.21 trillion to $1.26 trillion, according to the New York Fed's Household Debt and Credit Report. Experian data shows average consumer credit card balances are also up slightly, from $6,618 in 2025 to $6,659 today.
But debt doesn't look the same for everyone.
In many ways, today's credit card debt story mirrors the divide **** ociated with the K-shaped economy: Higher-income consumers are more willing to carry a balance to fund their goals, while lower-income consumers may be accumulating debt out of necessity or unable to access credit at all.
#income #disclosure
6 days ago
