Stand up for the facts!

Our only agenda is to publish the truth so you can be an informed participant in democracy.
We need your help.

More Info

I would like to contribute

Ten questions about the debt ceiling

Here's a primer on the debt ceiling, and what can happen if the United States bumps up against it. Here's a primer on the debt ceiling, and what can happen if the United States bumps up against it.

Here's a primer on the debt ceiling, and what can happen if the United States bumps up against it.

Louis Jacobson
By Louis Jacobson October 13, 2013

For something that could have a profound effect on the nation’s economy, the debt ceiling is a pretty arcane topic. But not much longer! PolitiFact's national staff looked at 10 questions and answers to shine some light on the subject. The questions include:

• So, what is this "debt ceiling"?

• What actually happens if we hit the debt ceiling?

• And, last but not least: How would ordinary Americans be hurt?

Click here to read the analysis.

Sign up for PolitiFact texts

Sign Up For Our Weekly Newsletter

Our Sources

See original story.

Browse the Truth-O-Meter

More by Louis Jacobson

Ten questions about the debt ceiling