Discover how your credit card bill compares to the U.S. average and learn ways to manage debt, lower interest costs, and take control of your spending.

According to a new study by Bankrate, 61% of people with credit card debt have been holding it for at least a year — up from 53% in late 2024.

About 3 in 5 cardholders (61%) with credit card balances have been in debt for at least a year — that’s up from 53% in late 2024. This includes 31% of those who have been in debt for at least three years and 21% who have been in debt for at least five years.

Consolidate credit card and other high-interest debt.

You may have a legal obligation to repay old debts, but there are also strict limits on debt collectors' tactics.