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 Utah, 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. Utah's regulations on these debts include the Utah Consumer Credit Code, which provides guidelines on consumer credit transactions and protections against unfair lending practices. Additionally, payday loans are regulated by the Utah Deferred Deposit Lending Act, which sets limits on the interest rates and terms of these loans. For debt collection, the Utah Consumer Sales Practices Act outlines what constitutes unfair and deceptive practices by creditors and debt collectors. On the federal level, consumer debt is governed by laws such as the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), which sets standards for the collection of debts, and the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), which requires clear disclosure of credit terms. Consumers in Utah facing issues with debt can seek guidance from an attorney who specializes in consumer law for advice specific to their situation.