24% of Americans with a credit record are behind on their debts
More U.S. households are falling into debt as they grapple with medical bills, student loans and other expenses, data show.
A record 24% of Americans with credit records are struggling to keep up with their debts, according to a recent analysis by the Urban Institute. The median amount owed is $2,913, with the figure rising to $3,009 in communities of color. Rising living costs, increasing interest rates, and depleted savings have pushed many households into debt, according to experts.
Student loan borrowers are also affected, with nearly 16% currently behind on payments, although the rate varies by location. Louisiana has the highest rate, at around 22%. Medical debt is also a significant issue, with 3% of Americans having unpaid hospital or medical bills in collections, with a median balance of $1,492. Legislation in 15 states prevents health care providers from reporting medical debt to credit agencies, but it does not erase the debt.
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