Скачать или смотреть Credit Scores Drop as Gen-Z Misses Student Debt Payments

Young Americans are facing a serious financial squeeze, and it's starting to damage their credit.

Delinquency rates are climbing to post-recession highs, largely driven by inflation and the return of student loan payments. This trend is hitting Gen Z particularly hard—their average credit score just took the biggest hit of any generation.

FICO data shows that about 1 in 7 Gen Z'ers saw their credit score drop by 50 points or more last year. A major reason? Since student loan payments resumed, a staggering 6.1 million borrowers have a new delinquency on their credit file.

This isn't just a number on a report. A lower credit score has real-world consequences that can follow you for years. It means paying thousands more for a mortgage or a car loan. It can even be the reason you're denied an apartment rental. As the Chief Economist at Redfin, I see how crucial a healthy credit score is for achieving major life goals like buying a home.

If this sounds familiar, please don't just wait it out. Call your student loan servicer. Ask them about income-driven repayment plans. It's the most effective step you can take to protect your financial future.