Federal Government; Debt Securities; Liability, Transactions

Quarterly

FGDSLIQ027S • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

534,734.00

Year-over-Year Change

-76.02%

Date Range

10/1/1946 - 1/1/2025

Summary

The Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio measures the ratio of debt payments to disposable personal income for U.S. households. It is a key indicator of financial stress and consumer deleveraging.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

The Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio tracks the share of disposable personal income required to service outstanding household debt, including mortgage, consumer, and other loans. It provides insights into consumer financial health and potential risks to economic growth.

Methodology

The data is calculated by the Federal Reserve using household balance sheet and disposable income statistics.

Historical Context

Policymakers and analysts monitor this ratio to assess consumer financial conditions and the potential impact on broader economic activity.

Key Facts

  • The ratio reached a peak of 13.2% in 2007 prior to the Great Recession.
  • The ratio declined to 9.7% in 2012 as households deleveraged.
  • As of 2022, the ratio stands at 9.4% of disposable income.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio measures the share of disposable personal income required to service outstanding household debt, including mortgages, consumer loans, and other liabilities.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: This ratio provides insights into consumer financial health and the potential for debt-related risks to economic growth. It is a key indicator monitored by policymakers and analysts.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The Federal Reserve calculates the Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio using household balance sheet and disposable income statistics.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and analysts use this ratio to assess consumer financial conditions and the potential impact on broader economic activity, informing decisions around monetary and fiscal policy.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio is published by the Federal Reserve with a lag of approximately one quarter.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Quarterly Household Debt Service Ratio (FGDSLIQ027S), retrieved from FRED.