In early 2024, ** percent of U.S. consumers said that their main source of personal non-mortgage debt were their credit card bills. Meanwhile, a ** percent of respondents said that their leading source of debt were car loans. Over a ***** of respondents had no debt.

Consumers in the United States had over **** trillion dollars in debt as of the first quarter of 2025. The majority of that debt were home mortgages, amounting to approximately **** trillion U.S. dollars. Student and car loans were the second and third largest component of household debt. Why is consumer debt important? Debt influences the Consumer Sentiment Index, which is an important indicator assessing the state of the U.S. economy. The U.S. housing market is also seen a bellwether of the economic conditions in the country. The housing industry employs a large number of people, and mortgages are large investments that consumers will pay off over the course of years, sometimes decades. Because of this, financial analysts closely watch consumer debt and its effects on the demand for housing. Attitudes towards debt Consumer perception of debt differed, depending on the kind of debt in question. While most saw a home mortgage as a positive investment, they increasingly looked at student loan debt as a negative debt. With education costs increasing, people are incurring more student loan debt in the United States. Credit card debt also had negative connotations.

Households Debt in the United States decreased to 69.20 percent of GDP in the fourth quarter of 2024 from 70.50 percent of GDP in the third quarter of 2024. This dataset provides - United States Households Debt To Gdp- actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

As of the last quarter of 2022, Alaska and Hawaii were the states in the U.S. with the highest credit card debt. While the average credit card debt in Alaska amounted to 4,430 U.S. dollars, people from Mississippi only had on average 2,450 U.S. dollars of credit card debt.

The generation X was the group of people with the highest average credit card balance in the United States in 2023. That year, the average credit card debt of the generation Z amounted to approximately 3,260 U.S. dollars. People in the silent generation had a credit card balance of roughly 3,410 U.S. dollars.

The average amount of non-mortgage debt held by consumers in the United States has been falling steadily during the past years, amounting to ****** U.S. dollars in 2023. While respondents had ****** U.S. dollars of debt in 2018, that volume decreased to ****** U.S. dollars in 2019, which constituted the largest year-over-year decrease.What age groups are more indebted in the U.S.?The age group with the highest level of consumer debt in the U.S. was belonging to the Generation X with approximately ******* U.S. dollars of debt in 2022. The next generations with high consumer debt levels were baby boomers and millennials, whose debt levels were similar. In comparison, credit card debt is more equally distributed across all ages. There is an exception among people under 35 years old, who are significantly less burdened with credit card debt. However, most consumers expect to get rid of their debt in the short term. College expenses as a source of debtEducational expenses were not among the leading sources of debt among consumers in the U.S. in 2022. Instead, they made up about ** percent of the total. However, around ** percent of undergraduates from lower-income families had student loans, while over a fifth of undergraduates from higher-income families had student loans. Independently of how they cover these expenses, the confidence of students and parents about being able to pay these college costs was high in most cases.

Key information about United States Government Debt: % of GDP

• United States Government debt accounted for 124.0 % of the country's Nominal GDP in Dec 2024, compared with the ratio of 123.1 % in the previous quarter.
• US government debt to GDP ratio data is updated quarterly, available from Mar 1969 to Dec 2024.
• The data reached an all-time high of 130.4 % in Mar 2021 and a record low of 31.8 % in Sep 1974.

CEIC calculates quarterly Government Debt as % of Nominal GDP from monthly Government Debt and rolling sum of quarterly Nominal GDP. The Bureau of the Fiscal Service provides Government Debt in USD. The Bureau of Economic Analysis provides Nominal GDP in USD. Government Debt covers Central Government only.


Related information about United States Government Debt: % of GDP

• In the latest reports, US National Government Debt reached 36,220.2 USD bn in Jan 2025.
• The country's Nominal GDP reached 6,632.4 USD bn in Mar 2023.

Graph and download economic data for Household Debt Service Payments as a Percent of Disposable Personal Income (TDSP) from Q1 1980 to Q1 2025 about disposable, payments, debt, personal income, percent, personal, households, services, income, and USA.

Government Debt in the United States increased to 36215818 USD Million in May from 36213557 USD Million in April of 2025. This dataset provides - United States Government Debt- actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Graph and download economic data for Federal Debt: Total Public Debt (GFDEBTN) from Q1 1966 to Q1 2025 about public, debt, federal, government, and USA.

Statistics on student debt, including the average debt at graduation, the percentage of graduates who owed large debt at graduation and the percentage of graduates with debt who had paid it off at the time of the interview, are presented by the location of residence at the time of the interview and the level of study. Estimates are available at five-year intervals.

The industry is composed of non-depository institutions that conduct primary and secondary market lending. Operators in this industry include government agencies in addition to non-agency issuers of mortgage-related securities. Through 2025, rising per capita disposable income and low levels of unemployment helped fuel the increase in primary and secondary market sales of collateralized debt. Nonetheless, due to the pandemic and the sharp contraction in economic activity in 2020, revenue gains were limited, but have climbed as the economy has normalized and interest rates shot up to tackle rampant inflation. However, in 2024 the Federal Reserve cut interest rates as inflationary pressures eased and is expected to be cut further in 2025. Overall, these trends, along with volatility in the real estate market, have caused revenue to slump at a CAGR of 1.5% to $485.0 billion over the past five years, including an expected decline of 1.1% in 2025 alone. The high interest rate environment has hindered real estate loan demand and caused industry profit to shrink to 11.6% of revenue in 2025. Higher access to credit and higher disposable income have fueled primary market lending over much of the past five years, increasing the variety and volume of loans to be securitized and sold in secondary markets. An additional boon for institutions has been an increase in interest rates in the latter part of the period, which raised interest income as the spread between short- and long-term interest rates increased. These macroeconomic factors, combined with changing risk appetite and regulation in the secondary markets, have resurrected collateralized debt trading since the middle of the period. Although the FED cut interest rates in 2024, this will reduce interest income for the industry but increase loan demand. Although institutions are poised to benefit from a strong economic recovery as inflationary pressures ease, relatively steady rates of homeownership, coupled with declines in the 30-year mortgage rate, are expected to damage the primary market through 2030. Shaky demand from commercial banking and uncertainty surrounding inflationary pressures will influence institutions' decisions on whether or not to sell mortgage-backed securities and commercial loans to secondary markets. These trends are expected to cause revenue to decline at a CAGR of 0.8% to $466.9 billion over the five years to 2030.

Summarizes the U.S. government's total outstanding debt at the end of each fiscal year from 1789 to the current year.

Total outstanding debt of the U.S. government reported daily. Includes a breakout of intragovernmental holdings (federal debt held by U.S. government) and debt held by the public (federal debt held by entities outside the U.S. government).

Private Debt to GDP in the United States decreased to 142 percent in 2024 from 147.50 percent in 2023. United States Private Debt to GDP - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on July of 2025.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Debt Settlement market size is USD 289.2 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 115.68 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a share of over 30% of the global market size of USD 86.76 million.
Asia Pacific held the market of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 66.52 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America market of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 14.46 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa held the major market of around 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 5.78 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The B2B Type held the highest Debt Settlement market revenue share in 2024

Market Dynamics of Debt Settlement Market

Key Drivers for Debt Settlement Market

Increased Consumer Debt to Increase the Demand Globally

Rising consumer debt tiers, influenced by factors that include scholar loans, clinical payments, and credit card utilization, make contributions to burgeoning customers for debt settlement companies. Mounting economic obligations stresses people, prompting them to search for comfort through debt agreement offerings. Student mortgage burdens, exacerbated with the aid of escalating lesson fees and clinical prices, frequently now not fully protected by using coverage, compound the debt crisis. Additionally, sizable credit card utilization amplifies patron indebtedness. These elements together pressure people to explore debt agreement alternatives, aiming to barter decreased payment arrangements with lenders. Consequently, the demand for debt agreement offerings surges amidst the backdrop of escalating purchaser debt, reflecting the profound effect of financial strain on households.

Greater Awareness of Debt Settlement Services to Propel Market Growth

Heightened advertising endeavors and monetary literacy tasks have fostered broader know-how of debt settlement offerings as a viable approach to debt control. With extra publicity for those options, customers are increasingly open to exploring alternatives beyond traditional debt compensation techniques. Enhanced recognition empowers people to recall debt agreements as a proactive technique to alleviate economic burdens. As they grow to be extra informed about the capacity blessings and implications, clients are much more likely to interact with debt agreement businesses to negotiate favorable phrases with lenders. This shift indicates a fundamental alternate in customer attitudes toward debt management, pushed via education and outreach efforts aimed toward promoting financial empowerment and resilience.

Restraint Factor for the Debt Settlement Market

Negative Impact on Credit Score to Limit the Sales

Debt agreement, even as providing alleviation from overwhelming monetary burdens, frequently involves an amazing drawback: a vast decline in the man or woman's credit score. By negotiating decreased repayment quantities with lenders, individuals efficiently acknowledge an incapacity to fulfill the initial debt duties as agreed upon. Consequently, credit score reporting groups interpret this as a hazard component, main to a downward adjustment within the person's credit rating. This faded score can critically prevent future financial endeavors, consisting of securing loans or traces of credit, as creditors normally view lower credit scores as indicative of heightened repayment danger. Thus, whilst debt settlement provides on-the-spot respite, its lasting impact on creditworthiness underscores the importance of cautiously weighing the trade-offs concerned in pursuing such answers.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Debt Settlement Market

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted the debt settlement market, triggering a surge in demand as individuals grapple with financial hardships caused by job losses, reduced incomes, and economic instability [1]. Mounting debts, exacerbated by pandemic-related expenses and disruptions, have driven more people to seek ass...

Debt Settlement Market Outlook

The global debt settlement market size was valued at approximately USD 10.5 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 21.6 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period. This significant growth factor is driven by increasing consumer debt levels and the growing need for financial management solutions. As more individuals and businesses seek relief from mounting debts, the demand for debt settlement services continues to rise, making this sector an essential component of the broader financial services market.

One of the primary growth factors for the debt settlement market is the increasing consumer debt levels worldwide. Amid rising living costs, consumers are increasingly relying on credit to manage their expenses, leading to higher debt burdens. This scenario has made debt settlement services crucial for individuals struggling to manage their finances. Additionally, the economic disruptions caused by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated financial instability, further fueling the demand for debt settlement solutions.

Another significant factor contributing to the market's growth is the increasing awareness and acceptance of debt settlement services. Traditionally, debt settlement might have been viewed with skepticism, but more consumers and businesses are now recognizing its benefits. Effective marketing strategies, consumer education initiatives, and success stories of individuals who have regained financial stability through these services have contributed to this shift in perception. As more people become aware of debt settlement as a viable option, the market is expected to continue its upward trajectory.

The proliferation of digital platforms and the integration of advanced technologies are also pivotal in driving the market forward. The advent of sophisticated debt management software and online service platforms has made it easier for consumers to access debt settlement services. These digital solutions offer greater transparency, efficiency, and convenience, attracting a broader customer base. Moreover, technological advancements like artificial intelligence and machine learning are being leveraged to offer personalized debt management plans, further enhancing the effectiveness of these services.

In the realm of financial management, the Business Debt Management Tool emerges as a pivotal resource for enterprises seeking to streamline their debt settlement processes. This tool is designed to assist businesses in organizing and managing their financial obligations more effectively. By providing a comprehensive overview of outstanding debts, payment schedules, and negotiation opportunities, the Business Debt Management Tool empowers companies to make informed decisions. This not only aids in maintaining financial stability but also enhances the ability to negotiate favorable terms with creditors. As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of strategic debt management, tools like these become indispensable in navigating complex financial landscapes.

Regionally, North America holds a dominant position in the debt settlement market, accounting for a significant share of the global market. This region's leadership can be attributed to high consumer debt levels, a well-established financial services industry, and a mature regulatory framework that supports debt settlement practices. However, other regions such as Asia Pacific and Europe are also witnessing substantial growth, driven by increasing debt levels and the rising adoption of financial management solutions. As economic conditions improve and financial literacy rises, these regions are expected to contribute significantly to the market's expansion.

Component Analysis

The debt settlement market can be segmented by component into software and services. The software segment encompasses various debt management applications and platforms that facilitate the debt settlement process. These software solutions are designed to streamline and automate many aspects of debt management, from initial assessment to negotiation and settlement. The rising adoption of fintech solutions has significantly bolstered the demand for debt settlement software, as these tools offer enhanced efficiency, accuracy, and user-friendly interfaces. Moreover, the integration of AI and machine learning into these platforms enables personalized debt management plans, making them increasingly popular among both consum

Provides statistics on student debt such as average debt at graduation, percentage of graduates owing large debt after graduation and percentage of graduates with debt who had paid it off at time of interview. These data are presented by province and level of study.

Debt collection agencies have been severely impacted by several macroeconomic events and uneven consumer sentiment, creating large shifts in debt payments and new debt accrual. Following the pandemic, debt collection agencies struggled to find their footing, as a multitude of government assistance through policies such as the American Rescue Plan of March 2021 and student loan freeze bolstered individual consumers’ debt repayment capabilities and resulted in a considerable slowdown in overall debt accrual. However, in recent years, this has reversed, as the interest rate hikes in 2023, which peaked at 5.3% per the Federal Reserve, made it more difficult to finance debt payments. The lifting of the student loan freeze in October 2023 created further repayment stresses for consumers, while businesses were forced to rely on more expensive financing options for their capital needs due to high interest rates. Despite the more recent recovery, the overarching effects of debt repayment freeze and generous federal stimulus resulted in revenue slipping at a CAGR of 2.6% to an estimated $16.4 billion over the past five years, including an estimated 2.3% boost in 2025 alone. Small debt collection agencies face significant pressure from emerging accounts receivable platforms and virtual debt collection companies that aim to replace traditional practices. Prominent debt collectors can invest in new communication methods and data analytics, giving them an edge in outreach techniques such as telephone calling and social media communications. Competitive pressures intensify as new technology enables companies to manage their own debt collection, while out-of-market firms like fintech, e-commerce and payment platforms gain new revenue streams. Prominent companies, such as Alorica Inc., have responded tactically, with the company pursuing an AI cloud partnership with Google in October 2024 which bolstered profitability through more efficient internal workflow and direct-to-consumer services.Moving forward, debt collection agencies face positive prospects amid anticipated slowdown in interest rates and continued growth in medical and student loan debt. Consumers will use less revolving debt and hold larger balances in a higher interest rate environment; according to 2024 data from the New York Fed, outstanding credit card debt exceeded $1.2 trillion last year alone. Nonetheless, continued pressure from in-house alternatives among established financial organizations will force debt collection agencies to remain at the forefront of workflow modernization when procuring debt portfolios. Revenue is expected to accelerate at a CAGR of 2.1% to an estimated $18.3 billion through the end of 2030.

Graph and download economic data for Sources of Revenue: Brokering and Dealing Products - Debt Instruments for Investment Banking and Securities Dealing and Brokerage, All Establishments, Employer Firms (REVBDIEF5231YALLEST) from 2013 to 2022 about instruments, brokers, finance companies, employer firms, accounting, companies, revenue, finance, establishments, investment, financial, debt, securities, production, services, banks, depository institutions, and USA.