CCDI Fact Sheet
About the Index
The CredAbility Consumer Distress Index is a quarterly measure of the financial condition of the average American
consumer. This is the first index to provide a regular, comprehensive snapshot of the American consumer’s total
financial picture over time. The index is based on a 100-point scale:
| LESS THAN 60 | 60-69 | 70-79 | 80-89 | 90-100 |
| Emergency/Crisis | Distressed/Unstable | Weakening/At-Risk | Good/Stable | Excellent/Secure |
| The consumer is in the midst of a crisis and needs direct intervention to regain stability |
The consumer is financially unstable and needs to take immediate action to address their problem |
The consumer is at-risk of sliding into trouble and needs to take stabilizing action to prevent further problems |
The consumer is stable, but should evaluate and explore options to strengthen their position |
The consumer is secure and should continue current financial behavior and focus on long-term goals |
Methodology
The index is published quarterly using publicly available data and a proprietary methodology, supplemented by data and insights from CredAbility’s own research and analysis. The index draws on data from government and private sources in the following five areas:
| Employment |
Stable income is the foundation of any financial plan. This category measures unemployment and underemployment on family finances. |
| Housing |
A safe, affordable place to live is the number one priority for families. This category measures how well consumers are paying their rent/mortgage and the impact of housing costs on their finances. |
| Credit |
Strong credit scores create more choices and better financial options. This category assesses the strength of the consumer’s credit scores and how well they manage credit. |
| Household Budget |
Spending less than you make is the daily choice that leads to long-term success or failure. This category measures how well consumers are living within their means and saving. |
| Net Worth |
Strong, positive net worth creates options and independence. This category measures how well consumers are strengthening their personal balance sheet. |
