Would you date someone with credit card debt? Here's what Americans say
The Brief
10% of Americans say they would never date someone with credit card debt, according to a NerdWallet survey.
The average "dealbreaker" amount for credit card debt is $20,711, but many say having a repayment plan makes a difference.
67% of Americans wouldn't continue dating someone who lied about their debt.
LOS ANGELES - Would you date someone with thousands of dollars in credit card debt? For some Americans, the answer is a hard no.
A new survey from NerdWallet asked Americans how much debt they'd tolerate in a romantic relationship, and the results show that money matters when it comes to dating. While most Americans (90%) say they would date someone with credit card debt, many set a limit on how much they're willing to accept.
For some, it's not just the amount that matters—financial responsibility and honesty play a major role. Lying about debt, for example, is a bigger dealbreaker than having it.
By the numbers
The survey asked over 2,000 U.S. adults how they feel about debt in relationships. While most Americans (90%) would date someone with credit card debt, they have limits on how much is too much.
On average, $20,711 in credit card debt is a dealbreaker in relationships.
The median "dealbreaker" amount is just $1,000, meaning many people prefer minimal debt.
39% of respondents say they don't care how much debt their partner has.
Generational differences also play a role. Younger Americans are more likely to reject dating someone with debt:
Gen Z (ages 18-27): 15%
Millennials (ages 28-43): 13%
Gen X (ages 44-59): 7%
Baby Boomers (ages 60-78): 6%
Sara Rathner, a NerdWallet credit cards expert, says financial responsibility isn't just about dating—it's about personal stability. "Knowing how to handle your finances shows other people that you're more capable of being a true life partner," Rathner said.
The other side
A person's approach to debt matters more than the amount they owe. According to the survey:
67% of Americans wouldn't continue dating someone who lied about their debt.
76% say having consumer debt isn't a dealbreaker—as long as there's a clear plan to pay it off.
Experts say being upfront about finances can strengthen relationships. Even if someone has significant debt, an honest conversation and a solid repayment strategy can make a difference.
The Source
This article is based on reporting from NerdWallet and The Harris Poll survey data.
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