Young Ohioans Face Mounting Debt, Advocates Push for Expanded Credit Counseling
COLUMBUS, OH – October 9, 2025 - A surge in credit card debt among young adults in Ohio is prompting calls for increased financial literacy and accessible credit counseling services across the state. Advocates warn that rising interest rates and aggressive marketing tactics are disproportionately impacting individuals aged 18-25, leaving them vulnerable to long-term financial hardship.
Ohioans in this age group are accumulating debt at an alarming rate, often due to a lack of understanding about responsible credit use and the complexities of financial products. This trend coincides with a broader national increase in credit card debt, but experts say the situation in Ohio is especially concerning given the state’s economic landscape and limited access to complete financial education. The Ohio Attorney General’s office is currently reviewing data on debt complaints, with preliminary findings indicating a significant uptick in cases involving young adults.
“We’re seeing a lot of young people who are excited to build credit, but they don’t fully grasp the implications of high interest rates and minimum payments,” explained Sarah miller, a financial counselor with the non-profit institution, Financial wellness of Ohio. “They’re frequently enough targeted by credit card companies offering rewards programs, without realizing the long-term cost.”
Several organizations are now advocating for mandatory financial literacy courses in high schools and expanded funding for non-profit credit counseling agencies. They argue that preventative education is crucial to equipping young Ohioans with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the credit system responsibly. Legislators are considering a bill that would allocate state funds to support these initiatives, but its passage remains uncertain.
The issue extends beyond individual financial well-being,perhaps impacting the state’s overall economic health. High levels of debt can hinder young adults’ ability to invest in their future, purchase homes, and contribute to the economy. Advocates emphasize that addressing this problem now is essential to ensuring a stable financial future for Ohio’s next generation.