Consumer debt consists of personal debts for goods purchased for personal or household consumption—as opposed to debts incurred for the operation of a business. Common examples of consumer debt include (1) credit card debt; (2) student loans; (3) home mortgage loans; (4) car or auto loans; (5) payday loans; (6) medical debts; and (7) unpaid utility and telephone bills.

In Pennsylvania, consumer debt is regulated by both state and federal laws. Credit card debt, student loans, home mortgages, auto loans, payday loans, medical debts, and unpaid utility and telephone bills are all considered consumer debts when they are for personal, family, or household purposes. The Pennsylvania Fair Credit Extension Uniformity Act prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the collection of consumer debts. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Consumer Discount Company Act regulates interest rates and terms for certain types of loans, including small loans that might be considered payday loans. The state follows the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which sets standards for the collection of consumer debts, such as prohibiting debt collectors from using abusive or deceptive tactics. The statute of limitations for consumer debt collection in Pennsylvania is generally four years, after which a debt collector cannot sue to collect the debt. For home mortgages, the foreclosure process is judicial, meaning the lender must go through the courts to foreclose on a property. It's important for consumers to understand their rights and obligations regarding consumer debt and to seek advice from an attorney if they face debt collection issues or need assistance with managing their debts.