According to a new WalletHub study, Washington residents are doing better than most of the country when it comes to keeping up with their debt payments.
With Americans carrying nearly $19 trillion in household debt, staying current on bills has become a challenge for many families.
Washington Lands Near the Bottom of Delinquency Rankings
The study analyzed debt delinquency data from all 50 states during the first quarter of 2026. Delinquency is defined as a borrower falling behind on payments on loans, credit cards, or other lines of credit.
In Washington, the news from the study is encouraging.
WalletHub ranked Washington 44th out of 50 states for worst debt delinquency. The ranking measures which states have the biggest debt problems, and a lower position is a good thing.
Only six states had lower delinquency rates than Washington.
According to the report, 8.58% of tradelines, like credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, and personal loans, were delinquent during the first quarter of 2026, and only 5.35% of total loan balances were considered delinquent.
In Oregon, they are slightly higher ranked, 35th, and Idaho came in at 40th. Washington also outperformed larger states like California, which ranked 43rd.
Why Delinquency Matters
Falling behind on debt payments can have long-lasting consequences, especially with what families are facing today.
Late payments can stay on a credit report for up to 7 years and usually lead to higher interest rates, additional fees, account closures, or even legal action.
The states struggling the most with delinquent debt were Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas, while Iowa had the lowest delinquency rate in the nation.
Not Perfect, But Better Than Most
While Washington’s ranking doesn’t mean residents are free from financial stress, it does suggest the state is faring better than many others during a time when debt levels remain historically high.
Compared to much of the country, people here in Washington State are doing a better job of staying current on what they owe.
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