economy
January 21, 2026
Trump's 10% credit card cap deadline is here. Will card companies comply?
Updated on: January 21, 2026 / 10:01 AM EST / CBS News
TL;DR
- President Trump set a Jan. 20 deadline for credit card companies to lower interest rates to 10% for one year.
- Most banks and card issuers have kept their rates unchanged, stating a lack of policy details for compliance.
- The proposed cap has bipartisan support from some lawmakers, who estimate it could save consumers $100 billion annually.
- The banking industry warns that a rate cap could force issuers to reduce credit access, disproportionately affecting vulnerable borrowers.
- Credit card rates have been declining due to Federal Reserve rate cuts, with the average APR at 19.7% in late December.
- Many banks already offer 0% APR introductory rates, with subsequent rates potentially rising significantly.
- Experts suggest a rate cap would likely require Congressional approval, as an executive action may not be enforceable.
- Fintech company Bilt is launching new credit cards with a 10% interest rate cap for one year.
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