Greece faces rising consumer debt and expanding social benefit dependency

Recent economic data highlights significant financial pressure on Greek households. According to the Intrum European Consumer Payment Report 2026, 60% of Greek consumers reported using credit cards or loans to pay bills within the last six months, a figure higher than the European average of 56%. Additionally, 37% of Greeks reported delaying at least one bill payment in the past year, compared to a 29% average across Europe. The report also notes the widespread adoption of 'Buy Now, Pay Later' services.

Parallel to rising debt, social benefit recipients in Greece are increasing. Nearly half of the population receives some form of state support, with the number of beneficiaries of permanent welfare-type allowances approaching 4.8 million following recent IMF announcements. Key expansions include a permanent tax-free allowance for all retirees over 65 and a new permanent allowance for all public employees, regardless of income or seniority.