I. ABSTRACT

Behavior is caused. Even uncontrollable spending behavior, too. This study was conducted to
determine credit cardholders' live experiences in using credit cards and the challenges they
have faced in paying off credit card debt. The researchers also want to know how they coped
with the situation. A qualitative descriptive research design was applied to the study, and a
purposive sampling technique was used to select the respondents. The instrument used to
attain the data pertinent to this study was semi-structured interviews designed to assess
relevant information. The data were analyzed using Braun & Clarke's (2006) six steps of
thematic analysis. Based on the study, the following were the findings and conclusions: (1)
Consumer behavior and ease of payment are the live experiences of credit cardholders in
using credit cards; (2) Financial literacy, amortization, and compounding interest are the
challenges faced by the credit cardholders; (3) Debt restructuring and financial management
are the solutions they made in order to pay down their credit card debt. The findings suggest
a need for credit providers to educate clients about the risks of minimum payments and
encourage responsible spending habits. Credit cardholders are advised to prioritize debt
repayment, seek debt restructuring options, and practice effective financial management to
avoid drowning in debt.