Closing the credit gap: 2026 outlook study
How credit shapes shopping behaviors, personal finances, and expectations for the year ahead – and what it means for your business.
Key insights from new Snap Finance research
Among consumers with credit scores below 670:
41%
say their current financial situation is unstable or very unstable
86%
have delayed a major purchase due to finances or the economy
66%
expect their financial situation to improve in 2026 but still have concerns
Takeaways for your business
Credit shapes major purchase decisions
Consumers, especially those with subprime credit, often delay making major purchases. Inclusive lease-to-own financing and loan options through Snap Finance can help shoppers get what they need now – and help you recapture that business.
39% of consumers with lower credit scores are not very or not so confident they could pay for a $300 unexpected expense.
Financing can bridge the credit gap
When shoppers can’t pay upfront and don’t qualify for traditional financing, Snap Finance can help you close the sale. More than half of consumers with credit scores under 670 expect to use financing more often in 2026.
29% of consumers with lower credit scores used lease-to-own financing in 2025.
Economic concerns drive purchasing decisions
Although Snap found more than half of consumers expect their financial situation to improve in 2026, consumers have overriding concerns about the current economy. That’s especially true for those with lower credit scores, who may not be able to get what they need without inclusive financing options.
74% of consumers with lower credit scores are worried about inflation in 2026.
More time to pay means more business for you
Increased revenue
Reach more customers and close more sales with our strong approval rates1
Supercharged sales
58% of credit-challenged consumers spent more because financing was available2
Expanded reach
Target new and repeat business and generate revenue with our preapproved leads
Fast funding
Enjoy expedited payments, typically within two business days of merchandise delivery or completed invoice
Disclosures
Snap-branded product offering includes retail installment contracts, bank installment loans, and lease-to-own financing. For more detailed information, please visit snapfinance.com/legal/products
Findings based on Snap Finance’s proprietary research conducted through SurveyMonkey’s panel with 1,423 U.S. adults who are household financial decision makers. Respondents’ answers were categorized by their self-identified credit scores above or below 670. Snap Finance, December 2025.
1Not all applicants are approved. Approvals subject to underwriting qualification criteria.
2Merchant Pulse Study. Snap Finance, 2023.