[sillysaurusx]

Am American. Did go bankrupt. Bill was $4k. Hospital trip.

You’re quoting the fed and seem a little out of touch with the realities that most Americans face on a day to day basis. I didn’t grow up in a bad part of town. I’m a successful programmer.

[jandrewrogers]

I am probably more in touch with that reality than most people here. I have decades of first-hand experience with the economics of being poor in America, and had to dig out of holes much larger than $4k. Never went bankrupt, though I came close once. I am financially comfortable now but I still have a lot of contact with that world, and am familiar with their finances.

The Federal Reserve and BLS data accurately reflects the realities average Americans face day to day in my experience. Individual situations are always somewhat unique and varies a bit depending on where you live in the US, but the statistics are broadly correct.