People with high incomes also carry credit card debt, though they are unlikely to acknowledge it.

The Stigma Surrounding Credit Card Debt

Carrying a balance on your credit card can feel humiliating, especially with the notoriously high interest rates attached. Many see a maxed-out card as a reflection of poor financial habits or a lack of self-control.

This sense of embarrassment is even more pronounced among high-income earners.

According to a 2025 LendingTree survey, about 40% of people with credit card debt have misrepresented the amount they owe.

Among those earning over $100,000 annually, half admitted to being dishonest about their card debt.

Credit card interest rates have recently made headlines after President Donald Trump proposed a temporary 10% cap on rates—about half the current national average of nearly 20%, according to Bankrate.

Experts note that the shame associated with credit card balances is unique compared to other types of debt.

For example, homeowners with low mortgage rates might boast about their deals, and young adults may openly discuss hefty student loans.

In contrast, credit card debt is often viewed as a sign of reckless spending or poor money management.

“Many people interpret credit card debt as a personal failure or a lack of discipline,” explained Matt Schulz, chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree, in a 2025 interview with USA TODAY.

SAN ANSELMO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 07: In this photo illustration, a credit card is used to pay for gasoline on February 07, 2024 in San Anselmo, California.

Americans Owe $1.2 Trillion in Credit Card Debt

The nation’s total credit card debt reached $1.2 trillion by the third quarter of 2025, according to LendingTree. Nearly 46% of cardholders carried a balance for at least one month in the past year, with the average debt per person at $7,886.

LendingTree’s March survey of 2,000 consumers revealed several key insights:

• 39% of people with card debt admitted to lying about it, most often to close family members.
• High-income earners with card debt were more likely to conceal it than those making under $30,000—50% versus 32%.
• 28% of indebted cardholders said they hadn’t told anyone about their debt, with women more likely than men to keep it secret.

Credit Card Debt Isn’t Just a Low-Income Issue

While it’s easy to assume credit card debt is mainly a problem for those with lower incomes, LendingTree found that half of people earning six figures carry card debt, compared to 39% of those earning less than $30,000.

“There’s a misconception that high earners don’t struggle with credit card debt,” Schulz said. “But having a large income doesn’t guarantee good money management.”

If you’re facing credit card debt, consider these expert strategies to help you pay it down:

SAN ANSELMO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 07: In this photo illustration, Visa credit cards are displayed on February 07, 2024 in San Anselmo, California.

Strategies to Tackle Credit Card Debt

Pay More Than the Minimum

To make real progress, go beyond the minimum payment, which typically covers just the interest and a small portion of the principal, says Ted Rossman of Bankrate. Stop adding new charges and increase your payments—aim for at least 5% of your gross monthly income, or double the minimum payment in the first month and continue paying that same amount as your balance drops.

Focus on One Card at a Time

If you have multiple cards, experts recommend choosing one card to pay off first. You can start with the card that has the highest interest rate to save on interest, or the one with the smallest balance for a quick win and motivation boost.

Consider a 0% APR Card

Although average credit card rates now exceed 20%, some cards offer introductory periods of 0% interest for 15 to 21 months. Using a zero-APR card can help you pay down debt faster, but be mindful that interest will apply to any remaining balance once the promotional period ends.

Negotiate With Your Card Issuer

Another option is to contact your credit card company and request a lower interest rate. If that doesn’t succeed, you might reach out to a nonprofit organization like the Consumer Credit Counseling Service, which can help negotiate better terms on your behalf.

Adapted from USA TODAY: Credit card debt shame is real, especially for those making over $100K