Credit Economy: The economy of the United States is founded on credit terms where goods and services are purchased and sold on account. Recent estimates place the average amount of credit card debt per indebted household around $15,000. Do you think credit card companies or consumers are to blame for this situation? What happens when the full amount due is not paid monthly, but only the minimum payment? What are typical annual interest rates charged by credit care companies? What happens if you miss a payment?