Here’s a piece of good news that could ease your worries: unpaid medical bills will no longer weigh down credit reports or impact loan decisions. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) just finalized a rule designed to lift the burden of medical debt, ensuring patients with outstanding bills aren’t held back from securing mortgages, car loans, or small business financing.
This landmark change will wipe $49 billion of medical debt off the credit reports of 15 million Americans, potentially boosting their credit scores by an average of 20 points. “People who get sick shouldn’t have their financial future upended,” said CFPB Director Rohit Chopra.
Research from the CFPB highlights that medical debt doesn’t accurately predict someone’s ability to repay loans. Despite this, it has played a significant role in mortgage denials for countless individuals. The new rule aims to end that unfair cycle.
“This is fantastic news for everyday Americans,” said Carrie Joy Grimes, founder of WorkMoney. “Medical debt isn’t about poor financial choices—anyone can face unexpected illness or injury. Now, people can focus on recovery and rebuilding their lives.”
This decision signals a major shift, offering a brighter financial future for millions of Americans. Ready to learn more? Dive deeper here.
