Americans are facing financial difficulties as credit card and auto loan default rates reach levels not seen since the financial crisis. Low- and middle-income earners are particularly affected by rising prices, leading to tough decisions such as choosing between paying bills, rent, or buying groceries. Low-income consumers rely on credit cards to pay for essential items, causing credit card debt to surpass $1 trillion for the first time. The resumption of student loan payments in October adds to the financial strain while rising car prices and delinquency rates among store card users indicate pressure on consumers and a crack in the consumer economy.