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U.S. Credit Card Debt Hits $1.28 Trillion, Delinquencies Rise

3/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

At the end of 2025, U.S. borrowers faced a record credit card debt of $1.28 trillion and a delinquency rate of 4.8%.
The belief that debts become uncollectible after seven years is not always true.
Borrowers should respond to collection notices and consider debt settlement or credit counseling to understand options, because a court judgment before the statute of limitations expires allows wage garnishment or bank levies on old debts.

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Story summary

At the end of 2025, U.S. borrowers faced a record credit card debt of $1.28 trillion and a delinquency rate of 4.8%.
The belief that debts become uncollectible after seven years is not always true.
Borrowers should respond to collection notices and consider debt settlement or credit counseling to understand options, because a court judgment before the statute of limitations expires allows wage garnishment or bank levies on old debts.