This panel will examine the role of debt—other side of the balance sheet from savings and assets—and how debt might positively or negatively impact individuals and households overtime. There is great variation in the form and amount of debt held by households. Debt might offers the ability to finance consumption or investments in human or other capital in the present with future payoffs. But debt also may represent future economic obligations of otherwise limited incomes, adding to stress and restricting future prospects. This panel will explore forms of debt held by households and how various types and levels of debt might influence health, as well as how health issues may influence debt levels. Given current debates over health care policy and finance, as well as regulation of consumer debt and access to credit, these papers may help further policymakers understanding of how households use debt and how debt influences households over time.