Holiday Credit Card Debt Expected To Linger Into Summer For Many Americans

Seventy percent of Americans using credit cards for holiday shopping will carry balances into 2026. The survey of 2,000 winter holiday celebrants found 35% plan to use credit cards for purchases, but only 17% always pay bills in full. Eighteen percent expect to still be paying holiday debt through June or later. Forty-seven percent reported being surprised by interest costs from past holiday shopping. Despite financial challenges, shoppers maintain intentional spending approaches. Two primary types emerged: The Giver, representing 35% who balance generosity with realistic spending limits, and The Planner, comprising 27% who create lists, establish budgets, and maintain discipline. Meanwhile, 44% have used or plan to use AI for holiday shopping, with younger generations leading adoption at 60% for Gen Z and 55% for millennials. (Story URL)