(BPT) - From renting an apartment to buying a car or covering an unexpected expense, credit plays an important role in helping people manage their everyday lives. But while credit is widely used, many people still feel unsure about how it works and how to manage it effectively.
According to a new U.S. Consumer Cards Credit Trends Survey* conducted by Citi, nearly all respondents (99%) see responsible credit management as key to achieving their financial goals, but only 11% can correctly identify all the factors that affect credit scores.
A lack of early credit education has left many people navigating credit without a clear foundation. Half of survey respondents say they only learned how to manage credit after getting their first credit card, while another 36% learned through trial and error. As a result, roughly two-thirds (68%) find aspects of credit management confusing, particularly how credit scores and interest are calculated, and half (50%) report feeling stressed or anxious about credit.
Why financial education matters
Despite the credit knowledge gap, an encouraging 72% say better education and tools would increase their confidence in managing credit. And economic pressures are motivating people to improve their financial health, with 92% of respondents taking proactive steps to manage their credit, and 63% seeking new tools and resources for support.
The findings highlight an important reminder: building a strong financial foundation takes more than just access to credit — it requires practical tools and trusted educational resources.
"Building credit confidence starts with understanding how it really works and developing consistent habits," said Abhinav Anand, head of Value Cards, Lending and Commerce for U.S. Consumer Cards at Citi. "It's a gradual process that people don't have to navigate alone. Trusted sources like local bank branches, financial advisors and nonprofit organizations can offer guidance and practical tools to help people feel more informed and in control."
For those looking to strengthen their understanding, Citi's Credit Knowledge Center offers educational content on topics ranging from how to apply for a credit card to understanding the difference between secured and unsecured cards, as well as rebuilding credit and maximizing rewards. Consumers can also explore financial management options such as debt consolidation and managing major expenses through Citi's Personal Loan Center.
Tools and resources to build credit knowledge
In today's environment, managing credit has become even more important. Rising living costs (52%), economic uncertainties (37%) and unexpected expenses (32%) are among the top factors shaping survey respondents' financial behavior over the past year. Many are responding by becoming more proactive. One in four (25%) say they're using digital tools for real-time credit alerts and monitoring tools more than they did a year ago. There's also growing interest in more affordable and flexible credit options, with 76% saying that access to low-cost credit cards would make credit easier to manage.
As consumers look for ways to stay on track, having access to helpful tools and flexible options can play an important role in supporting their long-term financial goals. Citi offers a range of resources and products to support everyday credit management, including:
Promotional offers: Existing Citi credit card customers can take advantage of offers like balance transfers and Flex Loans to help make their lives more flexible while using their existing credit.
Personal financial management tools: Citi also offers a variety of tools to help Citi credit card customers improve their financial understanding, including FICO® Score access.
"Responsible credit management can build resilience and support long-term financial well-being," added Anand. "Taking the time to learn and seek support can lead to smarter financial decisions and greater confidence over time."
*Survey Methodology: Citi collaborated with Material+ in March 2026 to conduct a brief, focused survey around credit confidence, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. The sample was comprised of 1,000 U.S. adults age 18+, not employed in a sensitive industry (bank/financial institution, market research, ad agency/PR firm), who are household decision makers on financial services products and have at least one credit card. Sample targeting was in line with the U.S. general population on age, income, region, and ethnicity. The study was fielded between March 19 and 22, and has an overall margin of error of plus-or-minus 3 percentage points at the 95% confidence level.
