How much consumer debt in us?

As of early 2025, total U.S. consumer debt exceeds $17 trillion, with the average household carrying over $104,000 across mortgages, credit cards, auto loans, and student loans. Revolving credit card debt alone sits near $1.1 trillion, and delinquencies are rising.

If you searched this, you likely feel the weight of that number personally. You may be carrying high-interest credit card balances, a car loan that feels stretched, or student loans that delay other goals. The real risk isn't the national figure—it's whether your monthly payments outpace your income, leaving no room for savings or unexpected expenses. When minimum payments eat up more than 30% of take-home pay, or you rely on credit for essentials, hardship is present.

Your situation likely falls into one of three risk levels. Low risk: you have manageable debt but want a clearer picture. Moderate risk: you're making minimums but not progress, and interest keeps balances flat. High risk: you've missed payments, collection calls have started, or you're considering a 401(k) loan or payday advance. If you're in the moderate or high zone, a professional review of your full debt profile—including interest rates, account ages, and payment history—can clarify whether settlement, consolidation, or bankruptcy is worth exploring.

A practical path forward begins with a single document: a list of every debt, its balance, interest rate, minimum payment, and current status. Do not call a creditor or enroll in a program yet. Debt relief options—like settlement or hardship programs—depend on your state, the type of debt, your hardship evidence, whether accounts are current or delinquent, and each partner's criteria. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Before you speak with any company or attorney, take 5 minutes to use the private DebtSense AI assessment on this site's homepage. It reviews your numbers against current program criteria and gives you a preliminary, no-obligation view of what may be possible. No calls, no pressure—just a clear starting point for your next step.