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 Rhode Island, consumer debt is regulated by both state statutes 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 or household use. The Rhode Island Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (RIFDCPA) mirrors the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and provides guidelines on how debt collectors can conduct themselves, including prohibiting abusive practices and setting limits on when and how collectors can contact debtors. The state also has laws that govern the interest rates and fees that can be charged on loans, such as the Rhode Island Interest and Usury Law. For mortgages, the Rhode Island Home Loan Protection Act provides additional protections against predatory lending practices. Payday loans are legal but regulated in Rhode Island, with limits on the amount of loans and the fees that can be charged. Consumers have rights under both state and federal law to dispute debts and seek validation of debt claims. 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 actions or have concerns about their debts.