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Terry Savage: Credit card breathing room
By Terry Savage, Tribune Content Agency at Waco Tribune-Herald
· July 15, 2026
· 1 min read
Americans hold roughly $1.25 trillion in credit card debt, with the average consumer carrying $6,595 in balances. Delinquency rates are at their highest level in 15 years. Much of that debt is incurred by people just trying to manage everyday…
Key takeaway 25 trillion in credit card debt, with the average consumer carrying $6,595 in balances.
Why this matters in The Waco
In Waco , where many residents live paycheck to paycheck, the national credit card debt crisis hits close to home. With the average American carrying nearly $6,600 in credit card balances, it's likely that many local families are struggling to make ends meet. The delinquency rates, now at their highest level in 15 years, suggest that some Waco residents may be falling behind on their payments, which can have long-term consequences for their financial stability. As the local economy continues to grow, it's crucial for city leaders and financial institutions to provide resources and support for residents who are overwhelmed by debt, such as financial counseling and debt management programs. By addressing this issue, Waco can help its residents achieve financial stability and security, which is essential for the well-being of the community as a whole. Local initiatives can make a difference.
About this story
Original reporting by Waco Tribune-Herald . The Waco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Waco Tribune-Herald . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 15, 2026 ·
Source: Waco Tribune-Herald ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Americans hold roughly $1.25 trillion in credit card debt, with the average consumer carrying $6,595 in balances. Delinquency rates are at their highest level in 15 years. Much of that debt is incurred by people just trying to manage everyday…
When was this published? This article was first published on July 15, 2026 by Waco Tribune-Herald and curated for The Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Terry Savage, Tribune Content Agency at Waco Tribune-Herald. To learn more about how The Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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