Consumers are managing debt better as recession memories linger, according to a study released Tuesday by the American Bankers Association.

The group reported debt payments more than 30 days overdue were down (albeit slightly) in nine of 11 categories for the second quarter.

Bankers Association Chief Economist James Chessen cited strong job growth, rising income and low interest rates as the main reasons for the improvements, along with a cautiousness embedded from the financial crisis.

“Consumers have made great strides since the recession, with a focus on deleveraging and disciplined financial management that has kept debt levels under control,” said the economist.

He added consumers are thinking twice before increasing their debt, with many using credit cards as a payment vehicle rather than a tool to finance purchases.

Falling slightly in the quarter, bank-card delinquencies hit 2.43 percent, markedly under the 15-year average of 3.79 percent.

“Continued job growth is the most important factor behind keeping delinquencies at these historically low rates,” he said.