Debt.com’s 2025 Survey Exposes Disturbing Trends in Credit Card Debt as Inflation Continues to Pressure Americans’ Finances

March 31, 2025 at 13:02 PM EDT

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With one-third of respondents relying on credit cards to cover basic expenses—many having maxed out their limits

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – March 28, 2025 – As policymakers push forward with efforts to cap steep credit card interest rates, the latest Credit Card Survey from Debt.com sheds light on how inflation has significantly impacted the financial stability of Americans—and how many are still struggling to dig their way out of debt.

For the second year in a row, one in three Americans say they rely on credit cards to make ends meet, with a growing number already maxed out. The national poll of 1,000 adults illustrates how rising costs have shifted credit cards from being a tool of convenience to a lifeline for survival.

“Even if headlines suggest inflation is cooling, everyday Americans are still feeling its full weight at home,” says , “Our findings show that many are forced to lean on high-interest credit cards just to get by—yet most haven’t taken steps to explore solutions that could help them regain control.”

Howard Dvorkin

CPA and Chairman of Debt.com.

Key Findings from Debt.com’s 2025 Credit Card Survey

32% of Americans have maxed out their credit cards
37% use credit cards regularly just to make ends meet
44% say inflation has caused them to carry a larger monthly balance
Of those maxed out, 80% would rely on credit cards during a financial emergency, and 23% owe more than $20,000 in credit card debt

This financial strain is reflected across generations, with Millennials (42%) and Gen Xers (39%) maxing out their cards at higher rates than Gen Z (32%) or Baby Boomers (14%). Notably, over 63% of all respondents carry a credit card balance, and more than 1 in 5 owe over $10,000—a stark indicator of the mounting debt crisis.

Credit Card Interest Rates Under Fire

Debt.com’s findings emerge as Senators Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) introduce a bipartisan bill to cap credit card interest rates at 10%, a move aimed at helping working people in endless cycles of debt.

“We are seeing interest rates above 24%, and 27% of survey respondents don’t even know their APR,” says Dvorkin. “This lack of awareness paired with record-high balances is financially dangerous. The proposed cap could offer real relief to millions, but education and action are key.”

Howard Dvorkin

CPA and chairman of Debt.com

Economic Backdrop: Consumer Sentiment Slips

This news comes amid fresh data from the University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index, showing a dip in consumer confidence. Economic uncertainty, persistent inflation, and high borrowing costs have left many Americans cautious about spending—and anxious about their financial futures.

Awareness of Debt Solutions Remains Low

Despite the growing burden, 57% of respondents have never considered professional or DIY debt relief options, such as credit counseling, balance transfers, or debt consolidation. This highlights a critical gap in financial education and underscores the importance of proactive outreach.

Full Survey Data Available Upon Request

Debt.com’s comprehensive report includes generational breakdowns, insights into how Americans are introduced to credit, and how financial emergencies drive credit card reliance.

Debt.com