Average credit card debt in the UK: dated figures and context

UK credit-card debt estimates, what the averages measure, and options if repayments are becoming unaffordable.

UK Statistics

The Money Charity’s September 2026 report put outstanding UK credit-card debt at £82.3 billion in July 2026, averaging approximately £2,832 per household and £1,456 per adult. These population averages include people without a credit-card balance; they are not the average debt of a cardholder who owes money.

The date and denominator matter. Household, adult and borrower-only figures should not be compared as if they measure the same thing. See the dated report for the method and underlying data.

A loan payoff calculator might be a valuable resource if you have a loan debt in the UK and are struggling to meet repayments or just want to stay on track.

How should trends be compared?

Credit-card balances change over time with borrowing, repayments and write-offs. A comparison should use the same statistical series and clearly stated dates. Pandemic-era figures should not be presented as a forecast of what will happen next.

What Happens When You Miss Payments?

Credit cards usually come with a minimum monthly repayment figure that you must pay back to your creditor to meet the terms of the credit card agreement. If you miss one or more of these payments, you will likely receive a letter asking you to make the payment or face additional late fees. You will also see the impact of credit card debt on your personal finances.

If you cannot repay, you will have credit card debts. Your creditors can chase you for this money and threaten legal action. They could take you to court and get a judge to make you pay. If you still don’t pay, you could have to deal with bailiffs repossessing your valuables.

But it doesn’t have to get to this stage!

How Can I Get Out of Debt?

Start with an affordable budget and contact the card provider if the minimum payments are difficult. Prioritise essential living costs and priority bills, and ask a free debt adviser to compare options.

A suitable balance transfer may reduce interest, but it moves the debt and can add a fee. You must normally keep making at least the contractual minimum payment, even during a 0% promotion. It is not a repayment holiday and acceptance is not guaranteed.

A DMP or formal insolvency solution may be suitable in some circumstances, but eligibility, fees, credit impact and asset risks differ. Free advice does not mean every resulting formal solution is free. See the official options guide.

Is Owning One a Bad Idea?

After reading this guide and learning about the average credit card debt in the UK, you might think they are a bad idea.

But when credit cards are used responsibly, they are not just a great way to access capital when needed. They are also a fantastic way to build up your credit score (if payments are made on time), which will ultimately help you get more credit or a mortgage. 

If you choose to use credit cards, it is important to practise responsible credit card use, make payments in full on time every month, try not to use all of the credit available to you (credit utilisation ratio) and keep an eye on your credit report. It is almost important to fully understand the terms and conditions and fees associated with your credit card before signing up.