Trump Calls for 10% Credit Card Interest Rate Cap Starting 2026

U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed attention on consumer finance policy after publicly calling for a one-year cap on credit card interest rates at 10%, set to begin on January 20, 2026. The announcement, made via his Truth Social platform, reiterated a campaign promise from the 2024 presidential election, which Trump ultimately won. However, the president did not outline how such a cap would be enforced or what legal mechanisms would compel credit card companies and banks to comply.

In his statement, Trump said the proposed interest rate cap would prevent American consumers from being “ripped off” by credit card companies, a message that aligns with broader concerns over rising household debt, high inflation, and elevated borrowing costs. Credit card interest rates in the United States have remained near record highs in recent years, making this proposal particularly relevant to millions of consumers carrying revolving balances.

Despite the strong language, details remain scarce. The White House did not immediately respond to media inquiries seeking clarification on enforcement or regulatory authority, though it later stated on social media that the president was moving to cap credit card rates. Under current law, interest rate limits would likely require congressional approval or new regulatory action, raising questions about feasibility.

Trump’s renewed pledge has also drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who argue that the administration has not delivered on earlier promises related to credit card rate reform. While there have been legislative efforts in Congress aimed at imposing limits on credit card interest rates, none have successfully passed into law so far.

Major U.S. banks and credit card issuers, including American Express, Capital One Financial, JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and Bank of America, declined to comment immediately following the announcement. Industry analysts note that a federally mandated interest rate cap could significantly impact bank revenue models, consumer credit availability, and lending standards.

As the proposed start date approaches, uncertainty remains over whether the credit card interest rate cap will move beyond rhetoric into enforceable policy, leaving consumers, lawmakers, and financial institutions watching closely.