Why More Americans Are Relying on Credit Cards in 2026

NerdWallet's October index finds more Americans relying on credit cards as inflation climbs in 2026. See who is hit hardest and how to avoid a lasting balance.

Kelley Bryson

Paycheck Advance Apps Are Costing Users Hundreds in 2026

Paycheck advance apps now reach more than 10 million Americans, but new…

Dona Danday

Why Americans Are Skipping Medical Care for Debt Payments in 2026

A new survey finds 19% of struggling borrowers are skipping medical care…

Kelley Bryson

Zombie Second Mortgages Are Resurfacing in 2026: What Homeowners Should Kno

A letter arrives from a company you have never heard of. It…

Josh Patoka

Small Business Credit Card Debt Is Climbing Fast in 2026

Your business account ran short again this month. So you reached for…

Barbora Lee

Student Loan Bankruptcy Discharge Success Rates Are Climbing in 2026

You always hear the same line about student loans. You cannot erase…

Kelley Bryson

What Is Debt Financing? Why Oil and Gas Companies Use Debt to Fund Growth

For many businesses, taking on debt is one of several ways companies…

Josh Patoka

Vet Bill Debt Is Pushing More Pet Owners Into Credit Card Trouble in 2026

Your dog needs emergency surgery. The vet quotes you $3,500 before they…

Josh Patoka

Mortgage Delinquencies Are Climbing in 2026: What’s Behind the Rise

You have never missed a mortgage payment in your life. Yet you…

Barbora Lee

ACA Premium Increases Are Pushing More Americans Into Debt In 2026

You log into your health insurance marketplace account to renew your plan.…

Kelley Bryson

Why Most Buy Now Pay Later Debt Still Doesn’t Show Up on Your Credit Report in 2026

You split last month's grocery run into four payments through a buy…

Josh Patoka