Analysis
The report shows people using BNPL for everyday needs as well as shopping. Because providers report payments differently, the $160 billion estimate does not show what any one household owes across plans.
What the report says
U.S. consumers spent more than $160 billion through BNPL plans in 2025, and usage increased nearly 80% from 2023, according to the AP article. Pay-in-four plans accounted for about half of the reported spending.
The article describes increased use for essential expenses, including groceries, rent and transportation, alongside consumer warnings about missed payments and juggling multiple plans. Some providers share payment information with credit bureaus; reporting practices vary.
What remains uncertain
The spending and usage figures are reported by AP from the sources described in its article. They describe market-wide usage, not a census of every provider or a direct measure of credit losses. Provider reporting to bureaus varies.