New HarrisX Survey: Amid Growing Economic Pressures, Americans Overwhelmingly View Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) as a Smart Financial Tool

87% of BNPL “Pay in 4” users say these plans helped them avoid relying on high-interest credit debt

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A new nationwide survey released by the Financial Technology Association (FTA), conducted by leading public opinion research firm HarrisX, finds that American consumers view Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) “Pay in 4” plans as a responsible financial tool and better alternative to high-interest credit cards. The survey reveals 91% of “Pay in 4” users and more than three-quarters of U.S. adults (77%) believe these plans have a positive impact on American consumers amid economic pressures, including reducing reliance on high-interest credit card debt.

Nearly 9 in 10 (88%) BNPL “Pay in 4” users and 75% of Americans agree policymakers should protect consumers’ access to BNPL. The full survey can be found here.

FTA welcomes balanced regulation that strengthens consumer protections already in place at leading firms, while preserving access to a low-cost, flexible payment option millions of Americans rely on. BNPL delivers fixed repayment plans, transparent terms, no revolving balances, with 96% repaid on time and in full.

About the Survey
This survey was conducted online by HarrisX among 1,890 U.S. adults nationwide from June 18–23, 2026, including an oversample of 500 U.S. adults who have used a BNPL “Pay in 4” plan at least once in the past 12 months, for a total of 965 users, including natural fallout in the national sample. Survey results were weighted using U.S. Census and Federal Reserve data to ensure they align with proportions within the national population. The margin of error in this poll is +/- 2.3%. Results among Buy Now Pay Later “Pay in 4” users have a margin of error of +/- 3.2%.

About FTA
The Financial Technology Association (FTA) is a network of fintech industry leaders shaping the future of finance, championing financial innovation and advocating for policies that expand competition, access, and opportunity. To learn more, visit https://www.ftassociation.org/.

About HarrisX
HarrisX, a Stagwell company, is a research and strategic advisory firm delivering clear, data-driven answers to our clients' most pressing questions.