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# socrates | CRA Learning Center

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## Posts

- [CRA Newswire](https://www.learncra.com/findcra-cra-newswire/) - findCRA's CRA Newswire provides weekly updates on key regulatory changes and industry news for CRA, banking, compliance, and nonprofit professionals regarding the Community Reinvestment Act.
- [HUD: Sponsors and Exhibitors Announced for 2026 Innovative Housing Showcase](https://www.learncra.com/hud-sponsors-and-exhibitors-announced-for-2026-innovative-housing-showcase/) - Showcase Returns to National Mall September 22–24 to Celebrate American Ingenuity HUD today announced the sponsors and exhibitors for its sixth annual Innovative Housing Showcase, taking place on the National Mall from September 22–24. This year’s theme, “Made in America,” highlights American ingenuity and innovative approaches to expanding housing affordability and homeownership. “Under President Trump’s leadership, HUD is bringing the public and private sectors
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $23 Million to Support Economic Development Projects in Ten States](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-23-million-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-ten-states/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced $23 million in awards for projects in ten states. The awards were provided through EDA’s FY 2025 Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs, which leverage existing regional assets and support the implementation of economic development strategies to support distressed communities. The EDA awards
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $44 Million in Disaster Supplemental Funding to Support Economic Development Projects in Five States](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-44-million-in-disaster-supplemental-funding-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-five-states/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced $44 million in Disaster Supplemental funding awards to five states that were impacted by storms and natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The EDA awards announced today are: Port of Whitman County (Pullman, Washington): $13.9 million for construction of a technology transfer and commercialization scaling
- [Agencies Seek Comment on Proposed Third-Party Risk Management Guidance and Issue Statement on Community Bank Engagement with Core Service Providers](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-seek-comment-on-proposed-third-party-risk-management-guidance-and-issue-statement-on-community-bank-engagement-with-core-service-providers/) - Today the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, the National Credit Union Administration, and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (collectively, the agencies) requested comment on proposed guidance to assist financial institutions with managing risks associated with third-party relationships. The proposed guidance reflects the agencies’ supervisory experience and lessons learned from examining
- [SBA: Guidance Issued to Prioritize Defense-Critical Firms as New 8(a) Program Rules Take Effect](https://www.learncra.com/sba-guidance-issued-to-prioritize-defense-critical-firms-as-new-8a-program-rules-take-effect/) - Agency Advances the Smaller War Plants Commission’s effort to prioritize domestic production capacity and military readiness Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced new guidance relating to recent reforms of the 8(a) Business Development Program for individually-owned firms. In support of President Donald J. Trump’s agenda to expand the Arsenal of Freedom here at home, and
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $159 Million in Disaster Supplemental Funding to Support Economic Development Projects in Helene-Impacted States](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-159-million-in-disaster-supplemental-funding-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-helene-impacted-states/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced $159 million in Disaster Supplemental funding awards to several states impacted by Hurricane Helene and other natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The EDA awards announced today are: Erwin Utilities Authority (Erwin, Tennessee): $46.5 million for wastewater infrastructure improvements to support local businesses in response
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $62 Million to Support Economic Development Projects in Five Southeastern States](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-62-million-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-five-southeastern-states/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced $62 million in awards for projects in five states across the Southeastern United States. The awards were provided through EDA’s FY 2025 Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs, which leverage existing regional assets and support the implementation of economic development strategies to support
- [Agencies Reduce Regulatory Burden for Community Banks, Increase Eligibility for 18-Month Exam Cycle](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-reduce-regulatory-burden-for-community-banks-increase-eligibility-for-18-month-exam-cycle/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today issued an interim final rule increasing the number of community banks eligible for an 18-month exam cycle. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act increased the total asset threshold from $3 billion to $6 billion for certain supervised institutions to qualify for an extended 18-month on-site exam cycle. Extending
- [Treasury: IRS Proposes Rule to End Tax-Exempt Status for Discriminatory Practices in Private Schools](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-irs-proposes-rule-to-end-tax-exempt-status-for-discriminatory-practices-in-private-schools/) - The Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) have issued proposed regulations to end federal tax-exempt status for private schools that engage in racial discrimination, delivering on President Trump’s Executive Orders ending discrimination and restoring merit-based opportunity. “Under President Trump, this Administration is standing up for America’s students by ensuring racial discrimination
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for the State of Nevada](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-the-state-of-nevada/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Nevada to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from the Hawk Fire beginning Aug. 22, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all federal disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kansas-11/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Kansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from June 18-30, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private non-profit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Iowa](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-iowa-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Iowa to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms and flooding from July 1-4, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for South Dakota](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-south-dakota-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of South Dakota to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from June 28 - July 3, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for North Dakota](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-north-dakota-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of North Dakota to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes from June 7-9, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private non-profit organizations on a cost-sharing basis
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Hawaii](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-hawaii-4/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Hawaii to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the earthquake on May 22, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Hawaii county. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Oglala Sioux Tribe](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-oglala-sioux-tribe/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to members of the Oglala Sioux Tribe to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding from June 2-4, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals and families of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Assistance can include grants
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kentucky](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kentucky-8/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from June 26-30, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Texas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-texas-8/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Texas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding on July 12, 2026, and continuing. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Colorado](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-colorado-2/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Colorado to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the wildfires, flooding and mudslides from June 27 – July 29, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on
- [Census Bureau: New Annual Integrated Economic Survey Data Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-annual-integrated-economic-survey-data-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released the full dataset from the 2024 Annual Integrated Economic Survey (AIES), offering a single, comprehensive annual snapshot of U.S. employer businesses. The AIES provides economic data, including business revenue, expenses, payroll and employment at detailed geographies. Today’s release includes data at the national, regional and divisional levels, with state-level estimates
- [SBA: Agency Recognizes Innovative CHOICE Arrangements as Major Win for Small Businesses](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-recognizes-innovative-choice-arrangements-as-major-win-for-small-businesses/) - Trump Administration Initiative Expands Health Insurance Affordability, Choice, and Coverage Options for Small Businesses and Workers Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) joined the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to announce CHOICE Arrangements. Formerly known as Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs),
- [HUD: Secretary Turner Joins the National Tribal Housing Summit to Announce Inaugural Awards for Tribal Leaders and Celebrate Historic MOU Signing](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-joins-the-national-tribal-housing-summit-to-announce-inaugural-awards-for-tribal-leaders-and-celebrate-historic-mou-signing/) - Today, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) concluded its 2026 National Tribal Housing Summit and announced the inaugural HUD Secretary’s Awards for Excellence in Tribal Communities, honoring achievements in housing, community development, and support for Native youth. During the Summit, HUD’s Office of Public and Indian Housing (PIH) and the Department of the
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-127/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in June 2026. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting
- [ICBA: 2026 National Community Bank Service Award Recipients Honored for Transformative Efforts to Uplift Local Communities](https://www.learncra.com/icba-2026-national-community-bank-service-award-recipients-honored-for-transformative-efforts-to-uplift-local-communities/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today announced the winners of its 2026 National Community Bank Service Awards, recognizing the innovative and exceptional efforts of the nation’s community banks to support and uplift local communities. Stories are featured in the September issue of ICBA's Independent Banker magazine. “These award recipients demonstrate what makes community banks
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Missouri](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-missouri-8/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding from July 9-11, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for
- [Census Bureau: Online News Conference Scheduled to Announce National 2025 Income, Poverty and Health Insurance Coverage Statistics](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-online-news-conference-scheduled-to-announce-national-2025-income-poverty-and-health-insurance-coverage-statistics/) - The U.S. Census Bureau is scheduled to hold an online news conference to announce the findings of three reports estimating income, poverty and health insurance coverage in the United States. The reports — Income in the United States: 2025, Poverty in the United States: 2025, and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2025 — provide national
- [Census Bureau: Global Older Adult Population Projected to Nearly Double by 2060](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-global-older-adult-population-projected-to-nearly-double-by-2060/) - Population in the United States Will Age Slower Than in Other Countries The share of the world population age 65 and older is projected to nearly double from 10.5% to 19.6% between 2025 and 2060, according to a new report released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. An Aging World: 2025 finds that the global population
- [SBA: All Star Lineup Unveiled for Million Dollar Pitch Competition](https://www.learncra.com/sba-all-star-lineup-unveiled-for-million-dollar-pitch-competition/) - Judges Nicki Minaj, Grant Cardone, and Joe Gebbia to join host Dean Cain at finale in Washington, D.C. Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the all-star judging panel and event host for the grand finale of the agency’s Million Dollar Pitch Competition. The judging panel will consist of global music icon and entrepreneur Nicki Minaj,
- [HUD: Disaster Aid & Financial Flexibility Delivered for Indiana Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-indiana-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - Secretary Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the state of Indiana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that occurred on August 11, 2026. “HUD stands ready to help Americans in need following natural disasters,” said Secretary Turner. “Our team is helping the
- [HUD: Agency Takes Action to Make Housing More Affordable](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-takes-action-to-make-housing-more-affordable/) - Secretary Turner took action to make housing more affordable by rescinding burdensome guidance that made building, buying, and renting a home more expensive. HUD issued new guidance applying the Fair Housing Act’s statute of limitations to claims alleging violations of the Act’s design and construction requirements. This replaces a flawed Obama-era legal interpretation and properly
- [OCC:  CRA Performance Evaluations for 23 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-23-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of August 1, 2026, through August 31, 2026. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [OCC: Fourth Quarter 2026 and First Quarter 2027 CRA Evaluation Schedule Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-fourth-quarter-2026-and-first-quarter-2027-cra-evaluation-schedule-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released its schedule of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) evaluations to be conducted in the fourth quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027. The OCC encourages public comment on the CRA-related activities of the national banks and federal savings associations (collectively, banks) scheduled to
- [Census Bureau: Agency Partners With Over 1,100 Institutions in Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-agency-partners-with-over-1100-institutions-in-post-secondary-employment-outcomes/) - he U.S. Census Bureau today announced new partnerships with institutions in Colorado, Maryland, New Mexico, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Utah, Tennessee and Vermont for its Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes (PSEO) experimental data product. People considering attending college can use the PSEO to find earnings and employment outcome data by major, degree level, post-secondary institution and state. Partnerships with eight
- [HUD: Agency Increases Flexibility and Lowers Barriers for Public Housing Repositioning](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-increases-flexibility-and-lowers-barriers-for-public-housing-repositioning/) - Updated guidance provides more tools to keep housing safe, modern, and affordable HUD today announced updates to its public housing demolition and disposition program to make it easier for public housing authorities (PHAs) to address distressed public housing and maintain affordable housing in their communities through redevelopment. “Public housing should not be synonymous with blighted or derelict
- [FDIC: CRA Examination Schedules for Fourth Quarter 2026 and First Quarter 2027 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-cra-examination-schedules-for-fourth-quarter-2026-and-first-quarter-2027-issued/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued the lists of institutions scheduled for a Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) examination during the fourth quarter 2026 and first quarter 2027. CRA regulations require each federal bank and thrift regulator to publish its quarterly CRA examination schedule at least 30 days before the beginning of each quarter. The
- [FHFA: U.S. House Prices Rise 2.1 Percent Year Over Year; Up 0.3 Percent Quarter Over Quarter](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-u-s-house-prices-rise-2-1-percent-year-over-year-up-0-3-percent-quarter-over-quarter/) - U.S. house prices rose 2.1 percent between the second quarter of 2025 and the second quarter of 2026, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices for the second quarter of 2026 rose 0.3 percent compared to the first quarter of 2026. FHFA’s seasonally adjusted monthly index for June remained unchanged from May.
- [SBA: Agency and Department of Energy Partner to Advance President Trump’s American Energy Dominance Agenda](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-and-department-of-energy-partner-to-advance-president-trumps-american-energy-dominance-agenda/) - Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) establishing a strategic partnership to advance President Donald J. Trump’s American energy dominance agenda. Signed by SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler and Energy Secretary Chris Wright at an event today in Pennsylvania, the agreement establishes the Small Business Investment Company-Energy
- [SBA: Agency and Department of War Establish Smaller War Plants Commission in Historic Effort to Strengthen Defense Industrial Base Capacity](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-and-department-of-war-establish-smaller-war-plants-commission-in-historic-effort-to-strengthen-defense-industrial-base-capacity/) - Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of War (DoW) announced a historic initiative to expand American military capacity, capability, and resilience by establishing the Smaller War Plants Commission (SWPC). Created through a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the Commission will marshal federal resources to expand production capacity, eliminate burdensome regulations, accelerate innovation, and provide targeted capital
- [HUD: Agency Leads Interagency Rescission of 2022 Statement on Special Purpose Credit Programs](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-leads-interagency-rescission-of-2022-statement-on-special-purpose-credit-programs/) - Advancing fair housing and equal treatment under the law Today, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), and the Federal Housing Finance
- [Agencies Rescind 2022 Interagency Statement on Special Purpose Credit Programs Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and Regulation B](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-rescind-2022-interagency-statement-on-special-purpose-credit-programs-under-the-equal-credit-opportunity-act-and-regulation-b/) - Summary: On August 25, 2026, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the National Credit Union Administration, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of Justice, and the Federal Housing Finance Agency (collectively, the agencies) issued a Federal Register notice to rescind the 2022 Interagency
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $9.5 Million to Support Economic Development Projects in Four States](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-9-5-million-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-four-states/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced $9.5 million in awards for projects in four states. The awards were provided through EDA’s Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs, which leverage existing regional assets and support the implementation of economic development strategies to support distressed communities. The awards announced today are:
- [CDFI Fund: Agency Welcomes a New Director](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-agency-welcomes-a-new-director/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced Chris Miller as the Director of the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund. “I am honored to serve as a presidential appointee and Director of the CDFI Fund, bringing my industry experience in community development finance to this important role,” said Mr. Miller. “I look forward to
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Hawaii](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-hawaii/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Hawaii to supplement state and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Lala from Aug. 14-16, 2026. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all federal disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Indiana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-indiana-4/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Indiana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from Aug. 11, 2026, and continuing. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Carroll, Dearborn, Decatur, Delaware, Fayette, Franklin, Hamilton, Hancock, Henry, Lake,
- [FDIC: Board of Directors Approves Interim Final Rule Regarding Reciprocal Deposits](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-of-directors-approves-interim-final-rule-regarding-reciprocal-deposits/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved an interim final rule to implement section 902 of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act (the Housing Act), which amended the statutory framework governing reciprocal deposits. Consistent with the Housing Act, the interim final rule raises the amount of reciprocal deposits an “agent institution” may
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $41.6 Million in Disaster Supplemental Funding to Support Economic Development Projects in Five States](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-41-6-million-in-disaster-supplemental-funding-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-five-states/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced $41.6 million in Disaster Supplemental funding awards to five states, which were impacted by storms and natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The EDA awards announced today are: Mountain City, Tennessee: $22.5 million for wastewater infrastructure improvements to support industrial growth in the region following
- [OCC: Agency Acts to Improve Transparency and Consistency to Bank Enforcement and Supervisory Standards](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-acts-to-improve-transparency-and-consistency-to-bank-enforcement-and-supervisory-standards/) - OCC issues two revised policies and procedures manuals; proposes amendments to Violations of Laws and Regulations framework The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced additional actions to focus supervisory attention on the most significant risks and violations and to provide banks greater clarity, consistency and certainty in how Matters Requiring Attention
- [Agencies Issue Final Rule to Prioritize Material Financial Risks in Bank Examination](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-final-rule-to-prioritize-material-financial-risks-in-bank-examination/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the agencies) today issued a final rule that continues their effort to focus examiners’ and institutions’ attention on material financial risks and compliance with banking and banking-related laws and regulations. The final rule is consistent with the objectives of the agencies’ proposal issued
- [SBA: Proposed Rule Issued to Overhaul & Simplify Small Business Classification & Expand Access to Federal Programs](https://www.learncra.com/sba-proposed-rule-issued-to-overhaul-simplify-small-business-classification-expand-access-to-federal-programs/) - Size standard proposal would increase small business count by over 110,000 Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) proposed a comprehensive overhaul of its small business size standards, modernizing how the federal government defines and classifies small businesses across the United States. Published in a proposed rule, the new standards would simplify industry categorization and raise applicable size thresholds,
- [FDIC: Second Federal Savings and Loan Association of Philadelphia Assumes All Deposits of Tioga-Franklin Savings Bank, Philadelphia](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-second-federal-savings-and-loan-association-of-philadelphia-assumes-all-deposits-of-tioga-franklin-savings-bank-philadelphia/) - Tioga-Franklin Savings Bank in Philadelphia was closed today by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver. The FDIC entered into an agreement with Second Federal Savings and Loan Association of Philadelphia to assume all deposits and purchase substantially all assets of Tioga-Franklin Savings Bank. As
- [Treasury: Public Comments Sought on GENIUS Act Proposed Rulemaking](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-public-comments-sought-on-genius-act-proposed-rulemaking/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), seeking public comment related to Treasury’s implementation of section 3 of the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act. “President Trump and Congress delivered the GENIUS Act, establishing a landmark framework and clear rules of the road for
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Indiana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-indiana-2/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Indiana to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding beginning on August 11, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all federal disaster relief efforts
- [SBA: SBA, DOL and OpenAI to Host Inaugural Manufacturing Workforce Expo](https://www.learncra.com/sba-sba-dol-and-openai-to-host-inaugural-manufacturing-workforce-expo/) - Registration open for August 26 job fair, connecting students with jobs and apprenticeships Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that its first-ever Manufacturing Workforce Expo will take place on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Atlantic Technical College in Coconut Creek, Florida. Co-hosted with the U.S. Department of Labor and OpenAI, the event is designed to
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $28.5 Million in Disaster Supplemental Funding to Support Economic Development Projects in Five States](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-28-5-million-in-disaster-supplemental-funding-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-five-states/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced $28.5 million in Disaster Supplemental funding awards to five states, which were impacted by storms and natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The EDA awards announced today are: Hurt, Virginia: $8.3 million for the construction of a new water treatment plant to support industrial development.
- [OCC: Comptroller Gould Discusses Digital Asset Innovation & GENIUS Next Steps](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comptroller-gould-discusses-digital-asset-innovation-genius-next-steps/) - Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan V. Gould today discussed the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s (OCC) work under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent to support the Administration’s efforts to grow the economy and lead the global digital currency revolution, in a Fireside Chat
- [CDFI Fund: CY 2026 New Markets Tax Credit Program Application Allocation Round Begins Soon](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-cy-2026-new-market-tax-credit-program-application-allocation-round-begins-soon/) - $5 Billion in Allocation Authority will be Available The upcoming calendar year (CY) 2026 round of the New Markets Tax Credit Program (NMTC Program) will make $5 billion in Allocation Authority available for investments in low income and distressed communities. The CDFI Fund is planning to open the CY 2026 NMTC Program Allocation Application round
- [SBA: Small Businesses Across Energy Sector Now Eligible for 90 Percent Loan Guarantee](https://www.learncra.com/sba-small-businesses-across-energy-section-now-eligible-for-90-percent-loan-guarantee/) - New loan guarantee for small producers will support expanded energy capacity, lower energy prices, and stronger supply chain Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that small businesses across the energy production supply chain are now eligible for a new 90% Energy Guarantee through the SBA International Trade Loan (ITL) Program. Established as part of SOP 50
- [Treasury: FinCEN Permanently Ends Beneficial Ownership Reporting Requirements for Millions of Small Business Owners](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-fincen-permanently-ends-beneficial-ownership-reporting-requirements-for-millions-of-small-business-owners/) - Will Delete Information Previously Reported by U.S. Persons Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) is issuing a final rule that permanently removes the requirement for U.S. companies and U.S. persons to report beneficial ownership information to FinCEN under the Corporate Transparency Act. The final rule became effective on August 14, 2026. FinCEN today
- [ONDCP, HHS & HUD Launch First-Ever “Treatment First” Toolkit to Combat Homelessness and Addiction](https://www.learncra.com/ondcp-hhs-hud-launch-first-ever-treatment-first-toolkit-to-combat-homelessness-and-addiction/) - New resource equips state and local leaders with Best Practices to expand recovery, reduce homelessness, and improve public safety White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) Director Sara Carter, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner today announced the Best Practices Toolkit: Addressing Homelessness and
- [FDIC: New Review Process Announced for Deposit Insurance Applications](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-new-review-process-announced-for-deposit-insurance-applications/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today announced a new two-phase process the agency will use to review new deposit insurance applications. The new procedures are intended to encourage new bank formation, accelerate the speed of the review process, and improve the efficiency of the application process. “Improving the de novo process and encouraging more new bank
- [OCC: Agency Commends FDIC Reform and Advances Priority to Reinvigorate De Novo Chartering](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-commends-fdic-reform-and-advances-priority-to-reinvigorate-de-novo-chartering/) - New FDIC process to review deposit insurance applications aligns with OCC efforts The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency continues to prioritize reinvigorating de novo chartering to build a robust, diverse banking system that supports the U.S. economy and commends the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for its recent efforts to do the same. “De
- [CFPB: Agency to Cease Discretionary Publication of Complaint Narratives and Visualizations](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-agency-to-cease-discretionary-publication-of-complaint-narratives-and-visualizations/) - Today, the CFPB is ceasing publication of unverified complaint narratives and visualizations. As the CFPB has long acknowledged, the publication in the Consumer Complaint Database of unverified complaint narratives and associated data visualizations is entirely discretionary. Many years of experience have demonstrated that the utility of such publication is minimal, while often causing confusion and
- [CDFI Fund: Target Market Updates to CDFI Certification Policy for Non-Metro Customized Investment Areas Including Non-Metro Counties and Parishes Released](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-target-market-updates-to-cdfi-certification-policy-for-non-metro-customized-investment-areas-including-non-metro-counties-and-parishes-released/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) has updated the Target Market activity thresholds for organizations interested in achieving or maintaining CDFI Certification with a non-Metro Customized Investment Area (CIA) including non-Metro counties and parishes. CIAs consist of specially designated geographic areas that meet the following conditions: include a contiguous mix of
- [OCC: Secretary of the Treasury Bessent & Comptroller of the Currency Gould Highlight Community Bank Comeback at Arizona Bankers Association Roundtable](https://www.learncra.com/occ-secretary-of-the-treasury-bessent-comptroller-of-the-currency-gould-highlight-community-bank-comeback-at-arizona-bankers-association-roundtable/) - Local banks on the front lines of economic and national security; OCC acts to eliminate risks posed by extending financial services to illegal aliens Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent and Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan V. Gould today highlighted the Trump Administration's efforts to alleviate regulatory burden on community banks, drive economic growth on
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Mississippi](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-mississippi-10/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Mississippi to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Arthur from June 18-20, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Hancock, Harrison, Pearl River and Stone counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Nebraska](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-nebraska-8/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Nebraska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from May 15-18, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Missouri](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-missouri-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from June 4-18, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for West Virginia](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-west-virginia-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of West Virginia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides from July 21-22, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Lewis and Upshur counties. Assistance can include grants
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-the-commonwealth-of-the-northern-mariana-islands-3/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Super Typhoon Bavi from July 4-12, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals on the island of Rota. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and
- [Census Bureau: Uninsured Rates Down in 65 Counties, Up in 427 Counties](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-uninsured-rates-down-in-65-counties-up-in-427-counties/) - The rate of individuals under age 65 without health insurance in the United States decreased in 65 counties and increased in 427 counties between 2023 and 2024, according to the Small Area Health Insurance Estimates (SAHIE) released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. SAHIE is the only source for single-year estimates of people under age 65 with
- [Census Bureau: Schedule Released for Income, Poverty and Health Insurance Statistics and Updates About the American Community Survey Estimates](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-schedule-released-for-income-poverty-and-health-insurance-statistics-and-updates-about-the-american-community-survey-estimates/) - The U.S. Census Bureau has set the schedule for release of the 2025 Income, Poverty and Health Insurance statistics from the Current Population Survey (CPS) Annual Social and Economic Supplement (ASEC) and is planning for the release of the 2025 American Community Survey (ACS). 2025 CPS ASEC – Tuesday, Sept. 15 This release includes: National 2025 income statistics. Annual
- [SBA: First-Ever Critical Suppliers Prize Competition Announced to Strengthen U.S. Manufacturing and Supply Chains](https://www.learncra.com/sba-first-ever-critical-suppliers-prize-competition-announced-to-strengthen-u-s-manufacturing-and-supply-chains/) - Competition Offers $20 Million in Capital to Small Businesses That Will Scale Domestic Production Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced its first-ever Critical Suppliers Prize Competition, a national contest to strengthen U.S. manufacturing and critical industry supply chains by expanding capacity at key chokepoints. The competition will award up to $20 million in non‑dilutive capital, including as
- [SBA: $10 Million in Grant Funding Announced for the Tribal College and University Manufacturing E2G Initiative](https://www.learncra.com/sba-10-million-in-grant-funding-announced-for-the-tribal-college-and-university-manufacturing-e2g-initiative/) - Funding Targets Tribal Colleges and Training Hubs to Strengthen Domestic Manufacturing and Critical Supply Chains Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced it is seeking funding proposals from tribal colleges, community colleges, and other trade schools on or near tribal lands under its Manufacturing in America Empower to Grow (E2G) Grant Initiative. This grant opportunity will award up to five
- [SBA: $50 Million Awarded to Technical Schools and Community Colleges in Support of Small Manufacturers](https://www.learncra.com/sba-50-million-awarded-to-technical-schools-and-community-colleges-in-support-of-small-manufacturers/) - Competitive E2G Grants Target Key Areas for Reindustrialization Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced it has awarded $50 million in grants to 11 organizations that will provide training and technical assistance to support small manufacturers in SBA’s Empower to Grow (E2G) Program. The Manufacturing in America E2G Grant Initiative will enable these organizations to deliver hands-on training that builds
- [FDIC: New Office of Supervisory Appeals Launches](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-new-office-of-supervisory-appeals-launches/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today announced the launch of a new Office of Supervisory Appeals (OSA) panel comprised of independent officials who will consider and resolve appeals of material supervisory determinations brought before the agency. The OSA is a standalone office within the FDIC and replaces the Supervision Appeals Review Committee as the final level
- [CDFI Fund: Summary Report and Public Data for NMTC Program for FYs 2003-2023 Released](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-summary-report-and-public-data-for-nmtc-program-for-fys-2003-2023-released/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) today released a summary report and data collected on all New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) investments across the nation from fiscal year (FY) 2003 to FY 2023. The CDFI Fund requires all Community Development Entities (CDEs) that have been awarded NMTC allocations
- [ICBA: New Polling Shows Small-Business Support for Community Banks as Senate Debates Digital Assets](https://www.learncra.com/icba-new-polling-shows-small-business-support-for-community-banks-as-senate-debates-digital-assets/) - With the Senate debating the Clarity Act digital asset market structure bill, new polling data shows U.S. small-business professionals say lawmakers should ensure the legislation does not hamper community bank lending in local communities. “New ICBA polling demonstrates that small businesses understand firsthand the critical role of community banks in supporting local economies and want
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Washington](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-washington/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Washington to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from wildfires beginning Aug. 1, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all federal disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-126/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in May 2026. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [ICBA: Statement Issued on Proposal to Amend Community Reinvestment Act Rules](https://www.learncra.com/icba-statement-issued-on-proposal-to-amend-community-reinvestment-act-rules/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on today’s Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) proposed rule opens in a new tabto amend Community Reinvestment Act regulations. “While ICBA looks forward to closely reviewing today’s proposed rule, we are strongly
- [SBA: Agency Celebrates 73rd Anniversary with New SBA.gov; Streamlines Capital and Resources for Small Businesses and Manufacturers](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-celebrates-73rd-anniversary-with-new-sba-gov-streamlines-capital-and-resources-for-small-businesses-and-manufacturers/) - New website realigns agency with its founding mission to power U.S. innovation, production, and Main Street job creators Today, on the 73rd anniversary of the Small Business Act of 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the official launch of its modernized website, SBA.gov, designed to streamline access to capital, counseling, and contracting. The transformation marks a
- [SBA: Top Five Finalists in Freedom 250 Patriot Pitch Competition Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-top-five-finalists-in-freedom-250-patriot-pitch-competition-announced/) - Finalists will compete in Washington, D.C. to win $1 million in total prize funding provided by Clover Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the five finalists advancing to the grand finale of the SBA Freedom 250 Patriot Pitch Competition. As part of the nation’s Freedom 250 celebrations, the competition spotlights the small businesses who leveraged
- [FDIC: Board Approves Proposal to Amend Regulations Regarding Lending Limits for Bank Insiders](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-approves-proposal-to-amend-regulations-regarding-lending-limits-for-bank-insiders/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved a notice of proposed rulemaking that would raise and index thresholds for certain lending limits for executive officers and other insiders of FDIC-supervised institutions. The proposed rule seeks to ensure that the FDIC’s lending thresholds to insiders align with those proposed by the Board of
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 14 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-14-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of July 1, 2026, through July 30, 2026. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [FDIC & OCC Issue Joint Proposal Amending the Community Reinvestment Act Rules](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-occ-issue-joint-proposal-amending-the-community-reinvestment-act-rules/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the agencies) today proposed targeted changes to their current rules implementing the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) to better align with the statutory mandate; better ensure that community development grants reach the communities they are intended to benefit; reduce burden for banks,
- [ABA: Statement Issued on Joint OCC/FDIC Community Reinvestment Act Rule Proposal](https://www.learncra.com/aba-statement-issued-on-joint-occ-fdic-community-reinvestment-act-rule-proposal/) - “Today’s joint proposal from the FDIC and OCC marks progress toward a Community Reinvestment Act framework that provides banks with greater clarity to plan and deliver loans and investments that reflect local needs, bank business strategies and today’s banking landscape. While we are continuing to review it closely, we are pleased that the proposal would
- [ABA: ABA Testifies Before Senate Aging Committee on Protecting Seniors from AI-Generated Fraud](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-testifies-before-senate-aging-committee-on-protecting-seniors-from-ai-generated-fraud/) - Association calls for coordinated action to combat growing threat of AI-enabled scams American Bankers Association Executive Vice President for Risk, Fraud and Cybersecurity Paul Benda will testify before the Senate Special Committee on Aging today on the growing threat of artificial intelligence-enabled scams and the need for a coordinated response to better protect older Americans
- [Treasury: Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent Remarks Before the Financial Literacy and Education Commission Shared](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-secretary-of-the-treasury-scott-bessent-remarks-before-the-financial-literacy-and-education-commission-shared/) - As prepared for delivery "Good afternoon. Thank you for joining us here in the historic Cash Room. And thank you for your ongoing commitment to the work of this Commission as we meet to discuss digital financial literacy following the historic launch of Trump Accounts. I have long believed that the strength of a nation
- [ICBA: ICBA Reiterates Strong Concerns with Federal Reserve Payment Account Proposal](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-reiterates-strong-concerns-with-federal-reserve-payment-account-proposal/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today expressed strong concerns with the Federal Reserve Board’s proposed special-purpose payment accounts for nonbank financial institutions and urged the agency to ensure any such program is temporary. “The Federal Reserve’s proposed payment account for eligible nonbank institutions continues to face an inescapable problem: the Fed shouldn’t extend
- [FHFA: House Price Index Up 0.3 Percent in May 2026; Up 2.2 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-up-0-3-percent-in-may-2026-up-2-2-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices rose nationwide in May, up 0.3 percent from the previous month, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 2.2 percent from May 2025 to May 2026. The previously reported 0.1 percent price decline in April remained unchanged. For the nine census
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Announces $34.2 Million in Disaster Recovery Awards for North Carolina](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-announces-34-2-million-in-disaster-recovery-awards-for-north-carolina/) - Today, Paul M. Dabbar, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce, announced $34.2 million in Disaster recovery awards for North Carolina, provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA). U.S. Representative Chuck Edwards (NC-11); Ben Page, EDA Deputy Assistant Secretary and Chief Operating Officer; and EDA grantees joined him at the announcement, at the
- [OCC: Comptroller Gould Highlights OCC’s Financial Literacy Efforts at Financial Literacy and Education Commission Meeting](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comptroller-gould-highlights-occs-financial-literacy-efforts-at-financial-literacy-and-education-commission-meeting/) - Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan V. Gould today highlighted the OCC’s efforts to expand financial literacy, support responsible innovation, and provide consumers with practical educational resources in remarks at the Financial Literacy and Education Commission meeting. Excerpts from Comptroller Gould’s remarks are below. His full statement can be found here. Supporting responsible innovation and digital financial
- [CFPB: Deputy Director Mark Paoletta Shares Remarks at the Financial Literacy and Education Commission](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-deputy-director-mark-paoletta-shares-remarks-at-the-financial-literacy-and-education-commission/) - "Good afternoon. I want to thank Secretary Bessent and the staff of the Treasury Department for convening this meeting, and for their leadership on digital financial literacy. Under the superb leadership of Acting Director Vought, the CFPB is advancing the Trump Administration’s expansive efforts to improve financial literacy and increase early access to financial empowerment
- [HUD and Census Bureau: New Residential Sales Report for June 2026 Released](https://www.learncra.com/hud-and-census-bureau-new-residential-sales-report-for-june-2026-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development jointly announced the following new residential sales statistics for June 2026: New Home SalesSales of new single-family houses in June 2026 were at a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 628,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau and the
- [HUD and Census Bureau: New Residential Sales Report in June 2026 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/hud-and-census-bureau-new-residential-sales-report-in-june-2026-issued/) - The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development jointly announced the following new residential sales statistics for June 2026: New Home SalesSales of new single-family houses in June 2026 were at a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 628,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau and the
- [Treasury: FinCEN Issues Alert on Fraud Schemes Targeting Federal Student Aid](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-fincen-issues-alert-on-fraud-schemes-targeting-federal-student-aid/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) issued an Alert urging financial institutions to detect, prevent, and report suspicious activity connected to fraud schemes targeting student aid programs administered by the Federal government. Today’s action is the latest in Treasury’s efforts, led by President Trump and Vice President Vance, to eliminate government
- [ICBA: ThinkTECH Accelerator Showcase Returns to GSBC, Connecting Fintechs with Community Bank Leaders](https://www.learncra.com/icba-thinktech-accelerator-showcase-returns-to-gsbc-connecting-fintechs-with-community-bank-leaders/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) will host the ICBA ThinkTECH Accelerator Program 11 Showcase on July 23, 2026 at the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado (GSBC) in Boulder, Colo. During the event, community bank leaders will engage with growth-stage, bank-enabling fintechs and vote on the solution that best helps community banks flourish.
- [Census Bureau: New Data Tables Released From Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Surve](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-data-tables-released-from-household-trends-and-outlook-pulse-surve/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released new data tables about U.S. employment, housing (energy expenses), mental health, social connectedness and other topics from the Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey (HTOPS). In addition to data tables, the release includes a new infographic highlighting U.S. arts and entertainment activities. These data – collected from a sample of about 136,000 households
- [SBA: $9 Million in Grant Funding Announced for the Supply Chain Acceleration and Logistics Enablement (SCALE) Program](https://www.learncra.com/sba-9-million-in-grant-funding-announced-for-the-supply-chain-acceleration-and-logistics-enablement-scale-program/) - Funding will help small firms scale production and support strategic priorities Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced it is seeking proposals for a new funding competition as part of the Supply Chain Acceleration and Logistics Enablement (SCALE) Program, which will award 20 grants of up to $500,000 each over a two‑year period of performance. The
- [SBA: $6 Million Competition Announced for Women’s Business Center Modernization](https://www.learncra.com/sba-6-million-competition-announced-for-womens-business-center-modernization/) - Statutory Awards to Expand Statewide Support Networks and Access for Women Entrepreneurs Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a national competition for $6 million in grant funding as part of a new Women’s Business Center (WBC) Modernization Initiative. Established nearly 40 years ago during the Reagan Administration, the WBC Program offers training and
- [HUD: Agency Joins the NFL and Agency Partners to Support Engaging Youth Through Sport](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-joins-the-nfl-and-agency-partners-to-support-engaging-youth-through-sport/) - HUD, HHS, DOL, ED Sign MOU focused on youth academic participation, healthy living, and workforce development in underserved communities Officials from Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Health and Human Services (HHS), Education (ED), and Labor (DOL) today joined Troy Vincent Sr., Executive Vice President of National Football League (NFL) Football Operations to announce a federal agency Memorandum of Understanding
- [ABA: ABA & CBA Urge Federal Reserve to Strengthen Safeguards for Proposed Payment Accounts](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-cba-urge-federal-reserve-to-strengthen-safeguards-for-proposed-payment-accounts/) - The American Bankers Association and Consumer Bankers Association today submitted a joint comment letter supporting the Federal Reserve’s proposed Payment Account framework as a prudent approach to responsible innovation if additional safeguards are adopted to protect the safety, soundness and integrity of the U.S. payments system. The associations said the proposal represents a measured approach to expanding payment
- [ABA: Foundation Launches Guide to Help Nonprofits Sustain Bank Partnerships](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-launches-guide-to-help-nonprofits-sustain-bank-partnerships/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation today released a new resource designed to help nonprofits build and sustain successful partnerships with banks based on shared goals, mutual respect and measurable impact. The new guide, The Power of Collaboration 2.0: Steps for Nonprofits to Build and Sustain Partnerships with Banks, is the second resource in the ABA Foundation’s Power
- [CDFI Fund: Beware of Fraud Attempts Using Fictitious CDFI Fund Communications and Accounts](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-beware-of-fraud-attempts-using-fictitious-cdfi-fund-communications-and-accounts/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) would like to make the public aware of fraudulent social media profiles, email accounts, text messages, and phone numbers that attempt to impersonate or otherwise associate themselves with the CDFI Fund. Although the precise platforms and messages vary, these imposters provide false
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Texas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-texas/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Texas to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from flooding beginning on July 12, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all federal disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused
- [FDIC: The Farmers State Bank of Oakley, KS Assumes All Deposits of Small Business Bank, Lenexa, KS](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-the-farmers-state-bank-of-oakley-ks-assumes-all-deposits-of-small-business-bank-lenexa-ks/) - Small Business Bank in Lenexa, Kansas, was closed today by the Kansas Office of the State Bank Commissioner, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver. The FDIC entered into an agreement with The Farmers State Bank of Oakley, Kansas, to assume substantially all deposits and purchase certain assets of Small Business Bank.
- [FEMA: $600 Million Announced to Help Communities Reduce Flood Risk](https://www.learncra.com/fema-600-million-announced-to-help-communities-reduce-flood-risk/) - Mitigation activities save lives and reduce the cost of future disasters Today, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced a new $600 million funding opportunity for states, territories and Tribal Nations to make their communities safer from flooding. FEMA is making this funding available through the Fiscal Year 2026 Flood Mitigation Assistance Swift Current funding
- [Agencies Issue Joint Statement on Handling of Highly Sensitive Information During Bank Examinations](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-joint-statement-on-handling-of-highly-sensitive-information-during-bank-examinations/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today issued a joint statement describing enhanced security procedures for review of highly sensitive information in connection with examinations of supervised banks, such as reviewing materials on-site rather than transferring them onto agency systems. The statement discusses a coordinated approach to identifying highly sensitive data and documents and discusses enhanced
- [Agencies Issue Guidance on Lending to Individuals Not Legally Authorized to Work in the United States](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-guidance-on-lending-to-individuals-not-legally-authorized-to-work-in-the-united-states/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and the National Credit Union Administration (collectively, the agencies) today issued guidance to remind supervised financial institutions of existing supervisory expectations with respect to credit risk management, particularly as it relates to borrowers who are not legally authorized to work in the
- [CDFI Fund: Important Update for FY 2026 Small Dollar Loan Program Funding Round Applicants](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-important-update-for-fy-2026-small-dollar-loan-program-funding-round-applicants/) - The CDFI Fund has released updated application support materials for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Small Dollar Loan Program (SDL Program) applicants. The FY 2026 Small Dollar Loan Program AMIS Application Training Manual, updated July 10, 2026, is now available. The manual has updated instructions for launching a FY 2026 SDL Program Application and completing the Application Financial Data tables in
- [ABA: Officers Nominated for 2026-2027](https://www.learncra.com/aba-officers-nominated-for-2026-2027/) - The American Bankers Association’s Nominating Committee has finalized the official slate of officers to be presented for election at the association’s annual meeting scheduled for Oct. 27 in Salt Lake City. The committee, chaired by John C. Asbury, chief executive officer, Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp., Richmond, Va., nominated the following candidates for ABA officer positions:
- [ABA: ABA, ICBA Join State Associations in Urging Senate to Strengthen Stablecoin Yield Provisions in Clarity Act](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-icba-join-state-associations-in-urging-senate-to-strengthen-stablecoin-yield-provisions-in-clarity-act/) - In a new letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Minority Leader Charles Schumer today, the American Bankers Association and Independent Community Bankers of America joined 76 state associations representing thousands of community financial institutions across the country expressing genuine concerns with the Clarity Act and urging targeted changes to provide greater certainty that payment stablecoins
- [ICBA: ICBA Congratulates Lawmakers for Enactment of Bipartisan Housing Law with Pro-Community Bank Policies](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-congratulates-lawmakers-for-enactment-of-bipartisan-housing-law-with-pro-community-bank-policies/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) congratulated members of Congress for today’s enactment of bipartisan housing legislation that includes a community banking title of ICBA-advocated regulatory relief to promote lending and housing affordability. “ICBA and the nation’s community banks applaud today’s enactment of bipartisan housing legislation with pro-community bank reforms that will promote lending
- [FEMA: More Than $584 Million Delivered To Support Community-Led Resilience and Recovery Across the U.S.](https://www.learncra.com/fema-more-than-584-million-delivered-to-support-community-led-resilience-and-recovery-across-the-u-s/) - Today, FEMA announced the approval of more than half a billion to help states, Tribal Nations, territories and local governments build community resilience, restore critical infrastructure and invest in mitigation measures to reduce future disaster damage. The approved funding builds on President Donald J. Trump’s commitment to improving federal disaster support and ensuring taxpayer dollars are invested in
- [SBA: 10 Semifinalists in Freedom 250 Patriot Pitch Competition Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-10-semifinalists-in-freedom-250-patriot-pitch-competition-announced/) - National Freedom 250 contest spotlights small businesses driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening communities across America Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the 10 semifinalists advancing in the Patriot Pitch Competition, the agency’s premier Freedom 250 initiative celebrating 250 years of American free enterprise and the small businesses that drive innovation, create jobs, and generate economic
- [SBA: Small Businesses Now Eligible for $10 Million in SBA Financing](https://www.learncra.com/sba-small-businesses-now-eligible-for-10-million-in-sba-financing/) - New SBA Policy Allows Borrowers to Combine 7(a) and 504 Loans to Double Available Capital Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration(SBA), announced that SBA borrowers may now combine their 7(a) and 504 loans for up to $10 million in SBA-backed financing, an increase from the previous cumulative loan limit of $5 million.
- [FDIC: Kentland Bank Assumes All Deposits of Kentland Federal Savings and Loan Association](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-kentland-bank-assumes-all-deposits-of-kentland-federal-savings-and-loan-association/) - Kentland Federal Savings and Loan Association of Kentland, Indiana was closed today by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver. The FDIC entered into an agreement with Kentland Bank of Kentland, Indiana (no affiliation with Kentland Federal Savings and Loan Association) to purchase substantially
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $10.9 Million for Infrastructure Improvement Projects to Support Economic Development in Four States](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-10-9-million-for-infrastructure-improvement-projects-to-support-economic-development-in-four-states/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced $10.9 million in awards for infrastructure improvement projects in four states. The awards were provided through EDA’s Fiscal Year 2025 Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance program, which helps communities revitalize and upgrade their physical infrastructure to attract new industries and strengthen local economies.
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $27 Million in Disaster Supplemental Funding to Support Economic Development Projects in Five States](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-27-million-in-disaster-supplemental-funding-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-five-states/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is announcing $27 million in Disaster Supplemental funding awards to support economic development projects in five states impacted by storms and natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The EDA awards announced today are: Hernando, Florida: $13.6 million for infrastructure improvements at the Brooksville-Tampa Bay Regional Airport to support job creation in the region. Community Action Prosperity
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Mississippi](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-mississippi-9/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the State of Mississippi to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from May 6-7, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Franklin, Lamar, Lawrence, Lincoln and Wilkinson counties. Assistance can include
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Missouri](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-missouri-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from April 23-28, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-the-mashpee-wampanoag-tribe/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe (MA) to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm and snowstorm from February 22-23, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the Tribal Nation on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair and replacement
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Nebraska](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-nebraska-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Nebraska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from March 12 to April 2, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private non-profit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Louisiana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-louisiana-8/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Louisiana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Arthur from June 17-18, 2026. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals and families in Avoyelles, St. Landry, St. Tammany and Terrebonne parishes. Assistance can include grants for
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Idaho](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-idaho-3/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the State of Idaho to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from March 11-15, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Pueblo of Acoma](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-the-pueblo-of-acoma/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Pueblo of Acoma to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding from September 28-29, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the Tribal Nation on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Wisconsin](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-wisconsin-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Wisconsin to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from April 13-23, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Bayfield, Brown, Buffalo, Jackson, Jefferson, Juneau, Kenosha, Manitowoc, Marathon, Milwaukee, Outagamie, Racine, Rock,
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Michigan](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-michigan-4/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Michigan to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from April 10-21, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Alcona, Allegan, Alpena, Antrim, Barry, Benzie, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Gratiot,
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kansas-9/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Kansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from April 26-27, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-the-commonwealth-of-the-northern-mariana-islands/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Typhoon Bavi beginning July 2, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Guam](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-guam/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Territory of Guam to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Typhoon Bavi beginning July 2, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health
- [SBA: USDA & SBA Sign MOU to Combat Lawfare Against Farmers, Ranchers, and Small Businesses](https://www.learncra.com/sba-usda-sba-sign-mou-to-combat-lawfare-against-farmers-ranchers-and-small-businesses/) - New Partnership Gives Producers a Direct Line to Report Costly Regulations and Advance Lasting Reform Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to combat lawfare targeting farmers, ranchers, rural communities, and small businesses. The agreement gives America’s producers a direct line to report the regulations and
- [SBA: Registration Now Open for America's Seed Fund Summit](https://www.learncra.com/sba-registration-now-open-for-americas-seed-fund-summit/) - Month-long Summit Will Connect Entrepreneurs to Country’s Largest Source of Early-Stage Research and Development Funding Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced that registration is now open for America’s Seed Fund Summit, which will take place from July 1 to July 31. The month-long summit will feature a national series of virtual webinars and in-person events designed to connect entrepreneurs,
- [HUD: "Made in America" Theme Unveiled for Innovative Housing Showcase 2026](https://www.learncra.com/hud-made-in-america-theme-unveiled-for-innovative-housing-showcase-2026/) - Sixth Annual Showcase returns to the National Mall September 22nd-24th Secretary Turner announced the “Made in America” theme for HUD’s sixth annual Innovative Housing Showcase, returning to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. September 22 - September 24, 2026. The Freedom 250 event will showcase American innovations that can help expand housing supply, lower construction
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-125/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in April 2026. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [FHFA: House Price Index Down 0.1 Percent in April 2026; Up 2.0 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-down-0-1-percent-in-april-up-2-0-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices fell nationwide in April, down 0.1 percent from the previous month, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 2.0 percent from April 2025 to April 2026. The previously reported 0.1 percent price change in March was revised upward to 0.2 percent. For the nine
- [Treasury: New Designation Cycle for Opportunity Zones Opens](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-new-designation-cycle-for-opportunity-zones-opens/) - The Working Families Tax Cuts Permanently Established a Process for States to Drive More Capital to Overlooked Communities Across America The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the opening of the next nomination period for states, territories, and the District of Columbia to nominate eligible communities to be designated as Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs). Under
- [FFIEC: Statement Issued on Promoting De Novo Depository Institution Formation](https://www.learncra.com/ffiec-statement-issued-on-promoting-de-novo-depository-institution-formation/) - The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council, on behalf of its member entities, released a statement on promoting de novo depository institution formation. The statement includes agency-specific resources for applicants. The statement should not be interpreted as new instructions; instead, it offers further transparency into the de novo formation process. The statement and links to the
- [FFIEC: Agencies Release List of Distressed or Underserved Nonmetropolitan Middle-Income Geographies](https://www.learncra.com/ffiec-agencies-release-list-of-distressed-or-underserved-nonmetropolitan-middle-income-geographies-4/) - Federal bank regulatory agencies today released the 2026 list of certain geographies where certain bank activities are eligible for Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) credit. Under the CRA, the agencies assess a bank’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, consistent with safe and sound operations. The list
- [SBA: Final Disaster Relief Extension for January 2025 Los Angeles Wildfire Survivors Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-final-disaster-relief-extension-for-january-2025-los-angeles-wildfire-survivors-announced/) - Agency provides unprecedented access to a record $3.4 billion in low-interest loans to rebuild homes and small businesses Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a final extension of disaster relief deadlines for Los Angeles wildfire survivors, as local permitting obstacles and insurance disputes continue to prevent thousands of residents from rebuilding. This action gives approved SBA
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $15.7 Million in Disaster Supplemental Funding to Support Economic Development Projects in South Carolina ](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-15-7-million-in-disaster-supplemental-funding-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-south-carolina/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced $15.7 million in Disaster Supplemental funding awards to support economic development projects in South Carolina in response to storms and natural disasters. The awards were provided through EDA’s Fiscal Year 2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant program, which supports economic recovery activities in areas that received major disaster declarations because of hurricanes, wildfires, severe storms and flooding, tornadoes, and
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 20 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-20-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released-2/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of June 1, 2026, through June 30, 2026. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [OCC: Mortgage Performance Report for First Quarter 2026 Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-mortgage-performance-report-for-first-quarter-2026-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) reported on the performance of first-lien mortgages in the federal banking system during the first quarter of 2026. The OCC Mortgage Metrics Report, First Quarter 2026 showed that 97.7 percent of mortgages included in the report were current and performing at the end of the quarter, a slight
- [CDFI Fund: FY 2026 CDFI Bond Guarantee Program Application Period Opens](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-fy-2026-cdfi-bond-guarantee-program-application-period-opens/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) today announced the opening of the fiscal year (FY) 2026 application period for the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program. A total of up to $500 million in guarantee authority is available for Eligible Community Development Financial Institutions (Eligible CDFIs) in FY 2026, subject
- [CDFI Fund: FY 2026 Bank Enterprise Award Program Funding Round Opens](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-fy-2026-bank-enterprise-award-program-funding-round-opens/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) opened the fiscal year (FY) 2026 funding round for the Bank Enterprise Award Program (BEA Program). Up to $40 million is available in awards to eligible Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)-insured depository institutions through the FY 2026 round of the program.
- [CDFI Fund: FY 2026 Small Dollar Loan Program Funding Round Opens](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-fy-2026-small-dollar-loan-program-funding-round-opens/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) opened the fiscal year (FY) 2026 funding round for the Small Dollar Loan Program (SDL Program) today. SDL Program funding is intended to expand consumer access to financial institutions by providing alternatives to high-cost small dollar lending. The SDL Program funding is
- [HUD: Agency and VA Announce Funding to Support Over 2,500 Homeless Veterans](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-and-va-announce-funding-to-support-over-2500-homeless-veterans/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins today announced $33 million in funding for the HUD–Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program. The funds will support 2,532 new HUD-VASH vouchers for homeless Veterans across 265 Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) in 44 states. View
- [SBA: FY 25 Scorecard for Small Business Contracting Released](https://www.learncra.com/sba-fy-25-scorecard-for-small-business-contracting-released/) - Trump Administration Procured $273 Billion in Small Business Goods and Services, Supporting 1.2 Million Jobs Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the results of its Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 federal procurement scorecard, which measures how well federal agencies meet their small business contracting goals each year. In FY25, the Trump Administration exceeded the statutory federal
- [FDIC: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Issued on Disclosure of Information for Appropriate Business Purposes](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-notice-of-proposed-rulemaking-issued-on-disclosure-of-information-for-appropriate-business-purposes/) - On June 25, 2026, the FDIC Board of Directors approved a notice of proposed rulemaking that would amend the FDIC’s Rules and Regulations governing the disclosure of information. The proposed rule would provide insured depository institutions (IDIs) with more flexibility to share confidential supervisory information for appropriate business purposes. In addition, the proposed rule would
- [Treasury: Artificial Intelligence Innovation Series Concludes](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-artificial-intelligence-innovation-series-concludes/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) and the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Transformation Office (AITO) held the fourth and final roundtable of the AI Innovation Series on May 19, 2026. This public-private initiative supports the continued strength and resilience of the U.S. financial system in an era of
- [FEMA: $1.5 Billion Announced to Empower Communities to Prevent Terrorism and Protect American Infrastructure](https://www.learncra.com/fema-1-5-billion-announced-to-empower-communities-to-prevent-terrorism-and-protect-american-infrastructure/) - Funding Empowers Communities to Prevent Terrorism, Secure Elections, Enhance Immigration Enforcement Today, FEMA published funding opportunities across seven preparedness grant programs, making more than $1.5 billion available to protect communities across the country from terrorism and other urgent threats. Through its preparedness grant programs, DHS and FEMA empower community leaders and infrastructure owners to take bold,
- [FFIEC: 2025 Data on Mortgage Lending Reported Under HMDA Published](https://www.learncra.com/ffiec-2025-data-on-mortgage-lending-reported-under-hmda-published/) - The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) recently published data on 2025 mortgage lending transactions reported under the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) by 4782 U.S. financial institutions. The Snapshot National Loan-Level Dataset released contains the national HMDA datasets as of June 1, 2026. The FFIEC released several data products to serve a variety of data users,
- [HUD: Agency Slashes More Red Tape to Lower Costs and Improve Affordability](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-slashes-more-red-tape-to-lower-costs-and-improve-affordability/) - New Federal Housing Administration Single Family policy changes remove barriers and expand homeownership opportunities. HUD is announcing fourteen policy changes to its Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Single Family mortgage insurance program that lower costs, reduce regulatory burdens, and improve affordability for Americans seeking FHA-insured mortgages. The changes eliminate outdated requirements, reduce administrative burdens, and make
- [CFPB: Agency Undertaking Efforts to Correct Flaws to Restore Integrity and Utility to the Consumer Complaint System](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-agency-undertaking-efforts-to-correct-flaws-to-restore-integrity-and-utility-to-the-consumer-complaint-system/) - The consumer complaint portal has long been plagued by issues that severely limit its effectiveness in addressing consumers’ complaints and practical utility of its information. Recently, CFPB has taken multiple concrete actions to address these issues and is continuing its work, including with Credit Reporting Agencies, to increase effectiveness of the process, while aligning it
- [FEMA: More than $420 Million Announced in Federal Funds to Support Emergency Management Across the Country](https://www.learncra.com/fema-more-than-420-million-announced-in-federal-funds-to-support-emergency-management-across-the-country/) - FEMA today announced more than $420 million in two funding opportunities to empower state, local, tribal and territorial government agencies to strengthen their emergency response capabilities and their resilience to potential catastrophic incidents. FEMA is disbursing this money through two separate grant programs. Through the Emergency Management Performance Grant program, FEMA is providing $337 million to
- [SBA: SBA and GSA Take Action to Prioritize American-Made Products in Federal Purchasing](https://www.learncra.com/sba-sba-and-gsa-take-action-to-prioritize-american-made-products-in-federal-purchasing/) - Agencies Partner to Remove Foreign Imposters from List of Approved Federal Product Offerings Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), in collaboration with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), announced new action to remove nearly two dozen foreign product offerings from GSA Advantage!, the list of approved vendors for federal agency procurement. The action comes as a result of meetings held
- [OCC: Agency Clarifies Filing Decision Process](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-clarifies-filing-decision-process/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today clarified the standards for its decisions on filings. OCC filing decisions are governed by 12 CFR 5.13. As stated in the regulation, the OCC may approve, conditionally approve or deny a filing. In addition, the OCC may return a filing as materially deficient where it
- [CDFI Fund: Public Comment Sought on NMTC Program Allocation Application and AQEI Tracking System](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-public-comment-sought-on-nmtc-program-allocation-application-and-aqei-tracking-system/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on proposed and/or continuing information collections, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Pub. L. No. 104-13 (44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(2)(A)). Currently,
- [SBA: Proposed Rule Reforms 8(a) Business Development Program to End Racial Discrimination in Federal Contracting](https://www.learncra.com/sba-proposed-rule-reforms-8a-business-development-program-to-end-racial-discrimination-in-federal-contracting/) - Agency issues new proposed rule to dismantle race-based admissions Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) released a proposed rule to end racial discrimination in the 8(a) Business Development Program and dismantle the race-based admissions framework that previously barred Americans of certain races from accessing 8(a) set-aside and sole-source contracting opportunities. Under the new rule, individuals will no longer
- [HUD: Fraud-Filled Los Angeles Homelessness Funding Cut Off](https://www.learncra.com/hud-fraud-filled-los-angeles-homelessness-funding-cut-off/) - Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority’s record of fraud, failure, and flagrant mismanagement has abused hundreds of millions of tax dollars per year. Following the HUD Office of Inspector General (OIG) opening an investigation, Secretary Scott Turner today announced the immediate suspension of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), the lead agency for Los Angeles’
- [HUD: Proposed Rule Would Spark Manufactured Home Innovation & Increase Supply](https://www.learncra.com/hud-proposed-rule-would-spark-manufactured-home-innovation-increase-supply/) - The proposed rule would remove the permanent chassis requirement for upper stories of manufactured homes. HUD today published a proposed rule in the Federal Register that would update the definition of a manufactured home and support innovative opportunities for multi-story manufactured housing. Under the proposed rule, the new definition of a manufactured home, as noted in the Manufactured Home
- [HUD: 15 Fair Housing Enforcement Actions Announced](https://www.learncra.com/hud-15-fair-housing-enforcement-actions-announced/) - Violations include Disability Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, and Familial Status The Department of Housing and Urban (HUD) announced fifteen recent fair housing enforcement actions as the Department accelerates civil rights enforcement, delivers relief for Americans facing housing discrimination, and continues to reduce a major case backlog inherited from the Biden Administration. The actions include charges and
- [Treasury: Education Freedom Tax Credit Guidance Previewed](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-education-freedom-tax-credit-guidance-previewed/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury previewed forthcoming Treasury and IRS guidance for the implementation of the new federal scholarship tax credit enacted as part of the Working Families Tax Cuts. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are taking a transformative step toward an education system that fits the student rather than the other way around,” said
- [ICBA: Advocacy Campaign Launched to Protect Main Street Communities from Crypto Threat](https://www.learncra.com/icba-advocacy-campaign-launched-to-protect-main-street-communities-from-crypto-threat/) - New ad highlights critical role community banks serve across America The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today announced a new campaign to protect local communities and consumers from the risks posed by the accelerated adoption of crypto products and services that lack the same level of regulation and consumer protection as the banking sector. “Community banks are the backbone
- [FEMA: Compact Disaster Declaration Approved for the Federated States of Micronesia](https://www.learncra.com/fema-compact-disaster-declaration-approved-for-the-federated-states-of-micronesia/) - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved a Compact Disaster Declaration for the Federated States of Micronesia as a result from Super Typhoon Sinlaku, which impacted the region April 9-12. Super Typhoon Sinlaku brought destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread flooding to the Federated States of Micronesia, resulting in significant damage to homes, infrastructure,
- [FEMA: More Than $1.1 Billion Approved to Help Communities Recover and Rebuild, Funds Also Support Resilience Efforts](https://www.learncra.com/fema-more-than-1-1-billion-approved-to-help-communities-recover-and-rebuild-funds-also-support-resilience-efforts/) - This recent approval represents funding for 452 disaster recovery and mitigation projects, underscoring DHS Secretary Mullin’s commitment to streamlining processes Today, FEMA announced the approval of more than $1.1 billion in post-disaster funding for Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program projects across the nation. These programs empower states, local communities, Tribal Nations and territories to recover and rebuild more resilient,
- [SBA: Agency-Wide Reorganization Announced to Modernize, Drive Operational Efficiency, and Enhance Accountability to Taxpayers](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-wide-reorganization-announced-to-modernize-drive-operational-efficiency-and-enhance-accountability-to-taxpayers/) - Reforms Strengthen SBA’s Service Levels, Technology, and Access for Small Businesses and Disaster Survivors Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced an agency-wide reorganization designed to modernize its organizational structure, improve operational efficiency to better serve small businesses, and strengthen accountability to taxpayers. By aligning employees around departmental expertise and management, the reorganization will reduce significant
- [HUD: $193 Million Made Available to Address Youth Homelessness](https://www.learncra.com/hud-193-million-made-available-to-address-youth-homelessness/) - Funding will support communities in developing housing focused solutions to prevent and end youth homelessness The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is making $193 million in funding available to communities nationwide to prevent and address youth homelessness. “Every American should grow up in a safe and loving home. HUD is pleased to announce
- [ABA: Statement Issued on Nomination of Brian Johnson as CFPB Director](https://www.learncra.com/aba-statement-issued-on-nomination-of-brian-johnson-as-cfpb-director/) - “We applaud President Trump’s nomination of Brian Johnson to serve as the next director of the CFPB. Brian has a distinguished track record in bank regulatory policy both at the Bureau and on Capitol Hill, and he will bring a thoughtful approach to setting the Bureau’s priorities in the years ahead if confirmed. The Bureau
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-124/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in March 2026. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [OCC: Comptroller Gould Testifies on Agency Activities](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comptroller-gould-testifies-on-agency-activities/) - Comptroller Jonathan V. Gould today testified on the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s (OCC) priorities and activities before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Financial Services. Excerpts from Comptroller Gould’s testimony are below. The full written testimony can be found here. On risk tolerance: “After the 2008 financial crisis, Washington too often sought
- [ABA: Bank Economists Find that Credit Conditions Expected to Hold Stable Over Next Six Months](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-economists-find-that-credit-conditions-expected-to-hold-stable-over-next-six-months/) - While credit conditions are expected to continue softening slightly over the next six months as the labor market encounters headwinds and the economy handles external shocks, they are expected to remain stable according to the American Bankers Association’s latest Credit Conditions Index released today.ABA’s Credit Conditions Index examines a suite of indices derived from the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kentucky](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kentucky-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe winter storm from January 23-27, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 18 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-18-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released-3/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of May 1, 2026, through May 31, 2026. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [ABA: Bank and Credit Union Groups Issue Statement on Illinois General Assembly Vote to Delay Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act Implementation](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-and-credit-union-groups-issue-statement-on-illinois-general-assembly-vote-to-delay-illinois-interchange-fee-prohibition-act-implementation/) - The American Bankers Association, Illinois Bankers Association, America’s Credit Unions and the Illinois Credit Union League issued the following statement after the Illinois General Assembly voted to delay implementation of the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act (IFPA) for one year: "We welcome the Illinois General Assembly's decision to once again delay the IFPA implementation deadline for another
- [ICBA: Community Banker Guide on Artificial Intelligence Security Readiness Released](https://www.learncra.com/icba-community-banker-guide-on-artificial-intelligence-security-readiness-released/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today released a new guide opens in a new tabto help community banks navigate the artificial intelligence security landscape. Developed by community bankers on ICBA’s AI Task Force to provide practical guidance to their industry colleagues, the Community Banker AI Security Readiness Guide opens in a new taboffers an informational overview of
- [ICBA: Statement Issued on Executive Order on Promoting AI Innovation and Security](https://www.learncra.com/icba-statement-issued-on-executive-order-on-promoting-ai-innovation-and-security/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on today’s executive order on promoting advanced artificial intelligence innovation and security. “ICBA and the nation’s community bankers thank the administration for expressly recognizing community banks as a critical infrastructure component and adopting elements of our joint AI action plan opens
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Native Village of Kipnuk](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-the-native-village-of-kipnuk/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Native Village of Kipnuk to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, flooding and remnants of Typhoon Halong from October 8-13, 2025. The President’s action makes federal funding available to the Native Village of Kipnuk and certain private nonprofit organizations on a
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes and the Crow Tribe of Montana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-fort-peck-assiniboine-and-sioux-tribes-and-the-crow-tribe-of-montana/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to members of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe winter storm and straight-line winds from December 17-18, 2025. FEMA also announced that disaster assistance is available to members of the Crow Tribe of Montana in
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Delaware](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-delaware-3/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Delaware to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe winter storm from February 22-23, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for San Carlos Apache Tribe](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-san-carlos-apache-tribe/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to eligible members of the San Carlos Apache Tribe to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding from October 10-13, 2025. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals and families of the San Carlos Apache Tribe. Assistance can include
- [SBA: First $30 Million in Loans Delivered Through SBA 90% Grocery Guarantee Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-first-30-million-in-loans-delivered-through-sba-90-grocery-guarantee-announced/) - Early loan approvals are directing new capital across food supply chain to support lower grocery costs Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced it has approved 19 loans totaling more than $30 million in just one month through its enhanced 90% Grocery Guarantee. These early approvals mark an important step in President Trump’s effort to make groceries
- [HUD: Agency Overhauls Federal Homelessness Assistance](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-overhauls-federal-homelessness-assistance/) - Today, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced a new Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for $4.04 billion to better serve America’s vulnerable populations through the Continuum of Care (CoC) homelessness assistance program. “The ‘housing first’ experiment failed Americans by warehousing the vulnerable without results. This ideology promised to end homelessness. Instead, billions
- [Agencies Remove Additional References to Reputation Risk](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-remove-additional-references-to-reputation-risk/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today jointly updated certain interagency documents to remove references to reputation risk. The agencies are taking this action to complement their earlier actions that ended the use of reputation risk in supervision. As the agencies have previously noted, reputation risk can be misused by supervisors as a basis to encourage
- [OCC: Senior Deputy Comptroller for Regional and Midsize Financial Institutions Announced](https://www.learncra.com/occ-senior-deputy-comptroller-for-regional-and-midsize-financial-institutions-announced/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced Benjamin Eddy will serve as the Senior Deputy Comptroller for Regional and Midsize Financial Institutions, effective June 1. In this role, Mr. Eddy oversees the supervision of national banks and federal savings associations between $30 billion and $500 billion in assets. He also serves
- [CFPB: Agency Works To Ensure Bilt Consumers Are Made Whole](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-agency-works-to-ensure-bilt-consumers-are-made-whole/) - The CFPB has been working to ensure consumers affected by Bilt’s transition to a new bank partner are appropriately remedied. CFPB officials met with Bilt to understand the issues caused by the transition and what steps Bilt has taken to ensure customers affected by challenges with the transition were made whole. Following our discussions and
- [CDFI Fund: New TLR Submission AMIS Display and Associated Guidance Materials Launched](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-new-tlr-submission-amis-display-and-associated-guidance-materials-launched/) - The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) has released a new Transaction Level Report (TLR) submission and certification page in its Awards Management Information System (AMIS). This new display presents the TLR submission steps in a more user-friendly way for organizations completing their annual reporting requirements or applying for CDFI Certification. The new display
- [ABA: New Survey Shows Americans Strongly Support Prohibiting Crypto Companies from Offering Yield-Like Rewards for Holding Stablecoin](https://www.learncra.com/aba-new-survey-shows-americans-strongly-support-prohibiting-crypto-companies-from-offering-yield-like-rewards-for-holding-stablecoin/) - As Senate prepares to consider digital asset legislation, national survey shows Americans support rules that protect the bank deposits that drive local lending and economic activity As the U.S. Senate prepares to consider the Clarity Act creating the first-ever rules for digital assets like stablecoin, a new survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of
- [ABA: Statement Issued on Executive Order Promoting Advanced AI Innovation and Security](https://www.learncra.com/aba-statement-issued-on-executive-order-promoting-advanced-ai-innovation-and-security/) - “We welcome today’s executive order as a constructive step toward strengthening the nation’s approach to managing the cybersecurity risks and opportunities associated with advanced artificial intelligence. Establishing a voluntary framework for government and industry collaboration, improving coordination around vulnerability identification and remediation, and expanding access to advanced cybersecurity capabilities can help better protect critical infrastructure,
- [HUD: 2025 Annual Homelessness Report to Congress Released](https://www.learncra.com/hud-2025-annual-homelessness-report-to-congress-released/) - The Point-In-Time Count Report Shows Homelessness Increased During Decade of "Housing First" Policies HUD today released the 2025 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report: Part 1: Point-in-Time (PIT) Estimates, which found that 745,652 people were homeless, including 266,320 people living on the street on a single night in January 2025 – a 27% increase since 2013 and a
- [FDIC: Summary of Deposits Survey and Filing for June 30, 2026 Data Collection Begins](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-summary-of-deposits-survey-and-filing-for-june-30-2026-data-collection-begins/) - Summary: The Summary of Deposits (SOD) is the annual survey of branch office deposits as of June 30, 2026 for all FDIC-insured institutions, including insured U.S. branches of foreign banks. All institutions with branch offices are required to submit the survey; institutions with only a main office are exempt. All survey responses are required by
- [FDIC: CRA Examination Schedules for Third Quarter 2026 and Fourth Quarter 2026 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-cra-examination-schedules-for-third-quarter-2026-and-fourth-quarter-2026-issued/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued the lists of institutions scheduled for a Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) examination during the third quarter 2026 and fourth quarter 2026. CRA regulations require each federal bank and thrift regulator to publish its quarterly CRA examination schedule at least 30 days before the beginning of each quarter.
- [ABA: Co-Plaintiffs Commend OCC Interim Final Actions Affirming Federal Preemption in New Comment Letters](https://www.learncra.com/aba-co-plaintiffs-commend-occ-interim-final-actions-affirming-federal-preemption-in-new-comment-letters/) - In new comment letters filed today, the Illinois Bankers Association, Illinois Credit Union League, American Bankers Association and America’s Credit Unions expressed strong support for both the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s interim final rule on national bank non-interest charges and fees and the OCC’s interim final order preempting the Illinois Interchange Fee
- [FHFA: U.S. House Prices Rise 1.7 Percent Year Over Year; Up 0.5 Percent Quarter Over Quarter](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-u-s-house-prices-rise-1-7-percent-year-over-year-up-0-5-percent-quarter-over-quarter/) - U.S. house prices rose 1.7 percent between the first quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices for the first quarter of 2026 rose 0.5 percent compared to the fourth quarter of 2025. FHFA’s seasonally adjusted monthly index for March rose 0.1 percent from February. Significant
- [Treasury: Launch of the Trump Accounts App and Next Steps for Trump Accounts Announced](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-launch-of-the-trump-accounts-app-announced-and-next-steps-for-trump-accounts/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the launch of the Trump Accounts app on app stores available nationwide. The Trump Accounts app will be the main interface for the most historic policy for American families in decades and is available on all major mobile app stores. “The Trump Administration is taking another
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves California Emergency Declaration](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-california-emergency-declaration/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the State of California to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a chemical release beginning May 21, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all federal disaster response efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency
- [FEMA: More Than $60 Million Approved to Help Southeast Communities Recover from Recent Disasters and Strengthen Their Resilience Against Future Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/fema-more-than-60-million-approved-to-help-southeast-communities-recover-from-recent-disasters-and-strengthen-their-resilience-against-future-disasters/) - Today, FEMA announced the recent approval of more than $60 million in post-disaster funding for Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program projects in Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. These programs empower states, local communities, tribes and territories to recover to rebuild more resilient, safer communities and protect infrastructure from future events. With
- [Census Bureau: New Educational Enrollment Data Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-educational-enrollment-data-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released data tables examining the educational characteristics of people age 3 and over. Data are based on statistics from the 2024 School Enrollment Supplement. In 2024, 23.4% of people age 3 and over were enrolled in school. Of those age 3 and over enrolled in school: 11.3% were in nursery school or kindergarten.
- [SBA: General Motors and SBA to Host Michigan Supplier Matchmaking Expo on June 5th](https://www.learncra.com/sba-general-motors-and-sba-to-host-michigan-supplier-matchmaking-expo-on-june-5th/) - Registration Now Open for June 5 Event Connecting Major Buyers with Local Small Businesses to Strengthen Domestic Supply Chains Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that its second 2026 Supplier Matchmaking Expo will take place on June 5, 2026, at the MotorCity Casino in Detroit, Michigan. The event, which is co-hosted by General Motors, is designed to advance
- [OCC: Third Quarter 2026 CRA Evaluation Schedule Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-third-quarter-2026-cra-evaluation-schedule-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released its schedule of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) evaluations to be conducted in the third quarter of 2026. While the OCC has previously released its schedule of CRA evaluations for two quarters in advance, updates to CRA evaluation scheduling for community banks and the implementation
- [Federal Reserve: Kevin Warsh Takes Oath of Office as Chairman and a Member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-kevin-warsh-takes-oath-of-office-as-chairman-and-a-member-of-the-board-of-governors-of-the-federal-reserve-system/) - Federal Open Market Committee Unanimously Selects Warsh as Its Chairman Kevin Warsh on Friday took the oath of office as chairman and a member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. Also on Friday, the Federal Open Market Committee unanimously selected Warsh as its chairman. President Donald J. Trump nominated Mr. Warsh
- [ICBA: Financial Services Industry Outlines Proposed Third-Party Risk Management Reforms to Federal Banking Agencies](https://www.learncra.com/icba-financial-services-industry-outlines-proposed-third-party-risk-management-reforms-to-federal-banking-agencies/) - The Consumer Bankers Association (CBA), along with the American Fintech Council, Coalition for Financial Ecosystem Standards, and Independent Community Bankers of America, today released a new report outlining refined principles and proposed areas for reform to third-party risk management (TPRM) in the financial services industry. The report comes as a result of a roundtable discussion CBA
- [SBA: Administrator Loeffler Applauds Signature of Investing in All of America Act to Strengthen the SBIC Program](https://www.learncra.com/sba-administrator-loeffler-applauds-signature-of-investing-in-all-of-america-act-to-strengthen-the-sbic-program/) - H.R. 2066 strengthens the SBIC program, expanding access to capital for rural communities and critical industries Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration(SBA), applauded President Donald J. Trump for signing H.R. 2066, the Investing in All of America Act, into law. The legislation, which was sponsored by U.S. House Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee Member
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges OCC to Rescind Approval for Coinbase’s National Trust Charter Following Criminal Lawsuit](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-occ-to-rescind-approval-for-coinbases-national-trust-charter-following-criminal-lawsuit/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today called on the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency to rescind or suspend its conditional approval of Coinbase Global’s application for a national trust bank charter until criminal allegations against Coinbase’s wholly owned subsidiary, Coinbase Financial Markets Inc., are resolved. This follows the New York State Attorney General’s
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds House Passage of Bipartisan Housing Bill](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-house-passage-of-bipartisan-housing-bill/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) applauded the House of Representatives for today’s bipartisan passage of its amended housing relief bill, which includes several ICBA-advocated community bank regulatory reforms and promotes housing affordability. “ICBA and the nation’s community banks strongly support bipartisan House passage of the amended housing bill, which includes pro-community bank regulatory
- [ICBA: Statement Issued on Executive Order on Financial Technology Regulation](https://www.learncra.com/icba-statement-issued-on-executive-order-on-financial-technology-regulation/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey released the following statement on President Donald Trump’s executive order directing the Federal Reserve to evaluate the legal, regulatory, and policy frameworks governing access to Reserve Bank payment accounts and payment services by uninsured depository institutions and non-bank financial companies. “Policymakers must recognize the
- [ICBA: Statement Issued on Executive Order on the Integrity of the U.S. Financial System](https://www.learncra.com/icba-statement-issued-on-executive-order-on-the-integrity-of-the-u-s-financial-system/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on today’s executive order on the integrity of the U.S. financial system. “Today’s executive order recognizes the rigorous know-your-customer and due diligence requirements that community banks meet under the Bank Secrecy Act. As ICBA has repeatedly said in meetings with
- [FEMA: DHS Makes $648 Million Available to Help Firefighters and First Responders Nationwide](https://www.learncra.com/fema-dhs-makes-648-million-available-to-help-firefighters-and-first-responders-nationwide/) - FEMA today announced $648 million in three funding opportunities to help firefighters and other first responders stay safe while protecting lives and communities nationwide. Through these three funding opportunities, FEMA is empowering fire stations and other first responder organizations to get the equipment, staff and support they need. “When a disaster strikes, firefighters and other first
- [SBA: Cumulative 7(a) and 504 Loan Limit Doubled to $10 Million](https://www.learncra.com/sba-cumulative-7a-and-504-loan-limit-doubled-to-10-million/) - Effective July 4, eligible borrowers can access record levels of SBA-backed funding Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), announced a new rule that will allow eligible borrowers to combine their 7(a) and 504 loans for up to $10 million in SBA-backed financing, increasing the cumulative loan limit from its current $5 million
- [HUD: Agency Announces Regulatory Best Practices to Unleash Building and Increase Homeownership Across America](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-announces-regulatory-best-practices-to-unleash-building-and-increase-homeownership-across-america/) - Deregulate Homebuilding by Reducing Costs, Unlocking Land, and Accelerating Timelines The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced the State and Local Best Practices for Home Construction Report, a series of regulatory actions for state and local governments to increase efficiency and ease regulatory barriers to housing construction and affordability. “HUD is encouraging our state
- [OCC: Agency Advances Priority of Reducing Regulatory Burden for Community Banks](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-advances-priority-of-reducing-regulatory-burden-for-community-banks/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) continues to prioritize supervisory and regulatory reforms to reduce burden for community banks and support their role as drivers of economic growth. Most community banks are well capitalized and well managed, conduct business in a safe and sound manner, and engage in low-risk activities. The OCC
- [ABA: Statement Issued on New Banking-Related Executive Orders](https://www.learncra.com/aba-statement-issued-on-new-banking-related-executive-orders/) - ABA issued the following statement from ABA President and CEO Rob Nichols after the White House released two executive orders related to the banking sector: "ABA has long believed that any player in the financial services marketplace looking to offer bank-like services should be required to meet the same rigorous regulatory and consumer protection requirements.
- [Banking Trades Issue Statement on Senate Banking Committee Vote to Advance Clarity Act](https://www.learncra.com/banking-trades-statement-on-senate-banking-committee-vote-to-advance-clarity-act/) - Following today’s Senate Banking Committee vote to advance the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, the American Bankers Association, Bank Policy Institute, Consumer Bankers Association, Financial Services Forum, Independent Community Bankers of America and National Bankers Association issued the following joint statement: “Today’s Senate Banking Committee vote on the Clarity Act marks an important step in
- [ICBA: Leading American Trade Associations Urge Federal Action to Address AI-Enabled Cyber Risk](https://www.learncra.com/icba-leading-american-trade-associations-urge-federal-action-to-address-ai-enabled-cyber-risk/) - A cross-sector of trade associations representing energy, electricity manufacturers, technology, financial services, healthcare, chemical distribution, and other critical infrastructure sectors today urged the administration to take coordinated action to address emerging AI-enabled cyber risk. In a letter to the administration, the groups highlighted the deeply interconnected nature of sector-wide risk and put forward a set
- [CFPB: 2025 Financial Literacy Annual Report Released](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-2025-financial-literacy-annual-report-released/) - The 2025 Financial Literacy Annual Report summarizes the CFPB’s financial education priorities including: Empowering military consumers, veterans, and their families to make better-informed decisions about consumer financial products and services Disseminating tools and resources targeted to older adults about current and future financial choices Providing high-quality financial education resources Equipping consumers with tools and resources
- [FEMA: More Than $5.4 Billion Approved in Recovery Funding](https://www.learncra.com/fema-more-than-5-4-billion-approved-in-recovery-funding/) - Today, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced more than $5.4 billion to reimburse states, local governments and health facilities for their costs to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Today, FEMA has obligated $5.4 billion in additional funds to support 458 projects across the country to close out outstanding COVID-19 reimbursements,” said Secretary Mullin. “As we continue
- [Census Bureau: Population Growth Holds Steady in Midsized Cities Amid Widespread Slowdown](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-population-growth-holds-steady-in-midsized-cities-amid-widespread-slowdown/) - Largest Cities Faced Sharpest Declines in Population Growth Amid a widespread national slowdown in population growth, midsized cities remained close to the previous year’s patterns between July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025. Drop-offs in average growth were steeper among the largest cities, according to U.S. Census Bureau Vintage 2025 population estimates released today. Even where the largest cities
- [SBA: $1 Million Patriot Pitch Competition Launched to Showcase America’s Entrepreneurs](https://www.learncra.com/sba-1-million-patriot-pitch-competition-launched-to-showcase-americas-entrepreneurs/) - Freedom 250 Event Celebrates Free Enterprise Through National Small Business Competition for $1 Million Cash Prize Pool Funded by Clover Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) launched the Patriot Pitch Competition, a national celebration of 250 years of American free enterprise and the small businesses that drive innovation, create jobs, and generate economic growth. Featuring a
- [FDIC: Staff Study Released of Deposit Flows at Three Failed Banks in Spring 2023](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-staff-study-released-of-deposit-flows-at-three-failed-banks-in-spring-2023/) - Study focuses on depositor flight at Silicon Valley Bank, Signature Bank, and First Republic Bank The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today released “Dissecting Depositor Flight: An Analysis of the Spring 2023 Bank Failures,” a detailed staff study of deposit flows at three banks that failed in the spring of 2023. Using transaction-level data from
- [OCC: Two Final Rules on Preemption of State Interest-on-Escrow Laws Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-two-final-rules-on-preemption-of-state-interest-on-escrow-laws-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today issued two final rules on national banks’ and federal savings associations’ real estate lending powers related to the payment of interest on funds held in escrow accounts. The OCC’s actions emphasize federal preemption as a critical tool for reducing unnecessary burden, enabling local and national
- [CDFI Fund: Special Topic Webinar on Updated NMTC TLR User Experience in AMIS Scheduled for May 28th](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-special-topic-webinar-on-updated-nmtc-tlr-user-experience-in-amis-scheduled-for-may-28th/) - The CDFI Fund will host a specialized webinar focused on Transaction Level Report (TLR) reporting requirements and considerations related to the New Markets Tax Credit Program (NMTC Program). This webinar is intended to provide NMTC stakeholders with additional guidance and an opportunity to ask questions related to the updated user AMIS interface for NMTC TLR
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds House Passage of Pro-Community Bank Regulatory Reforms](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-house-passage-of-pro-community-bank-regulatory-reforms/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) applauded the House of Representatives for its bipartisan passage of ICBA-advocated regulatory reforms that will help community banks meet the needs of local communities. “ICBA and the nation’s community banks strongly support House passage of legislation advancing sensible regulatory relief that will help community banks direct more resources
- [ICBA: ICBA Raises Concerns Over Kraken Pursuit of National Trust Charter](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-raises-concerns-over-kraken-pursuit-of-national-trust-charter/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America® today expressed strong concern after crypto exchange parent company Payward Inc., operator of Kraken, applied for a national trust bank charter from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). The application follows Kraken’s previously granted accessopens in a new tabfor a Federal Reserve master account and ongoing efforts
- [Federal Reserve: Board Issues Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2025 Report](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-board-issues-economic-well-being-of-u-s-households-in-2025-report/) - The Federal Reserve Board on Wednesday issued its Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2025 report, which examines the financial circumstances of U.S. adults and their families. Overall, the report shows that financial well-being was consistent with recent years. Survey results indicate that the labor market remained solid, despite some softening since the previous year's survey. Price
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Announces $25 Million Notice of Funding Opportunity to Upskill American Workers in Using Artificial Intelligence](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-announces-25-million-notice-of-funding-opportunity-to-upskill-american-workers-in-using-artificial-intelligence/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced that it is making available approximately $25 million in funding as part of a new AI Upskill Accelerator Pilot Program. This initiative will support the design and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) workforce training, helping to train workers and grow industries that are integral
- [ABA: ABA Applauds House Passage of Community Banking Legislation](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-house-passage-of-community-banking-legislation/) - “We applaud the House for passing three pieces of legislation today to strengthen our financial system and ensure that the regulatory and supervisory framework helps banks of all sizes thrive. The TRUST Act, led by Reps. Tim Moore and Ritchie Torres, and the SMART Act, led by Reps. William Timmons and Bill Foster, make much-needed
- [FEMA: $1.1 Billion Funding Opportunity to Help Communities Reduce Flood Risk and Save Lives](https://www.learncra.com/fema-1-1-billion-funding-opportunity-to-help-communities-reduce-flood-risk-and-save-lives/) - On April 30, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced $1.1 billion in new funding opportunities for states, territories and Tribal Nations to make their communities safer from flooding. Under the leadership of Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, FEMA is working to manage its various grant programs more efficiently. The two funding opportunities will
- [FEMA: Review Council Releases Final Report](https://www.learncra.com/fema-review-council-releases-final-report/) - The president’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review Council today released its final report, marking a major milestone in the administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen FEMA’s mission, operations and accountability. The council, established by President Trump, conducted a thorough review of FEMA’s capabilities, challenges and opportunities for reform. “Under President Trump’s leadership, FEMA is committed to getting resources
- [HUD and Census Bureau: New Residential Sales Report for March 2026 Released](https://www.learncra.com/hud-and-census-bureau-new-residential-sales-report-for-march-2026-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development jointly announced the following new residential sales statistics for March 2026: New Home SalesSales of new single-family houses in March 2026 were at a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 682,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau and the
- [ABA: Banking Trade Groups Urge Senate Banking Leaders to Strengthen Stablecoin Yield Guardrails to Prevent Deposit Flight](https://www.learncra.com/aba-banking-trade-groups-urge-senate-banking-leaders-to-strengthen-stablecoin-yield-guardrails-to-prevent-deposit-flight/) - A coalition of financial trade associations representing banks of all sizes today urged Senate Banking Committee leaders to make important technical refinements to proposed payment stablecoin yield language in the CLARITY Act, warning that allowing interest like yield on stablecoins could weaken bank deposits and reduce credit available to consumers, small businesses and farmers. In
- [ICBA: New ThinkTECH Accelerator Cohort Named to Help Community Banks Tackle Innovation Priorities](https://www.learncra.com/icba-new-thinktech-accelerator-cohort-named-to-help-community-banks-tackle-innovation-priorities/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) today announced the selected companies for its eleventh ICBA ThinkTECH Accelerator program (AP11). Running May 18 - July 24, the second cohort of 2026 reflects feedback from ICBA’s ThinkTECH Selection and Advisory Committee and targets priority areas for community bank innovation, including fraud mitigation, artificial intelligence, data analytics,
- [SBA: New $50 Million Grant Opportunity Announced to Support Made in America Manufacturing, Workforce Training](https://www.learncra.com/sba-new-50-million-grant-opportunity-announced-to-support-made-in-america-manufacturing-workforce-training/) - Manufacturing in America E2G Grants will fund training for small manufacturers in critical industries Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a new funding opportunity offering up to $50 million in grant awards to as many as 10 eligible applicant organizations who will provide training and technical assistance to support small manufacturers in the SBA’s Empower to Grow (E2G) Program. The Manufacturing
- [HUD: Agency Declares Little Rock Housing Authority in Substantial Default and Initiates Possession](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-declares-little-rock-housing-authority-in-substantial-default-and-initiates-possession/) - Action Builds on Secretary Turner’s Commitment to Hold Public Housing Authorities Accountable for Mismanagement The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today declared the Housing Authority of the City of Little Rock, operating as the Metropolitan Housing Alliance (MHA), in Substantial Default for failing to meet the terms of its federally mandated Recovery Agreement.
- [HUD: Environmental Reviews Streamlined to Lower Multifamily Development Costs](https://www.learncra.com/hud-environmental-reviews-streamlined-to-lower-multifamily-development-costs/) - FHA updates remove outdated requirements, cut inefficiencies, and support housing production HUD announced updates to environmental review requirements for multifamily housing, removing outdated provisions that have increased costs and complexity for lenders and developers. These changes, issued through HUD’s Federal Housing Administration (FHA) via a Mortgagee Letter, revise the Multifamily Accelerated Processing (MAP) Guide to streamline outdated and burdensome
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-123/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in February 2026. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $10 Million in Disaster Supplemental Funding to Support Economic Development Projects in Georgia and Kentucky](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-10-million-in-disaster-supplemental-funding-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-georgia-and-kentucky/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is announcing $10 million in Disaster Supplemental funding awards to Georgia and Kentucky, which were impacted by storms and natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The EDA awards announced today are: Augusta Technical College Foundation, Inc. in Augusta, Georgia, received a $6.8 million grant for construction of
- [OCC: Semiannual Risk Perspective Highlights Key Risks in Federal Banking System](https://www.learncra.com/occ-semiannual-risk-perspective-highlights-key-risks-in-federal-banking-system/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today reported the key issues facing the federal banking system in the Semiannual Risk Perspective for Spring 2026. Bank earnings improved in 2025, supported by loan growth and a decline in funding costs. Balance sheets remain strong and credit risk within the federal banking system remains manageable. Earnings
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 21 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-21-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of April 1, 2026, through April 30, 2026. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [ABA: Farm Banks Remain Key Source of Credit for America's Farmers and Rural Communities](https://www.learncra.com/aba-farm-banks-remain-key-source-of-credit-for-americas-farmers-and-rural-communities/) - Farm banks continued to play a central role in financing U.S. agriculture in 2025, accounting for more than one-third of all farm lending nationwide while maintaining solid capital, profitability and employment levels, according to ABA’s 2025 Farm Bank Performance Report. Banks held nearly $212 billion in farm loans at the end of 2025, representing 35.7% of total
- [ABA: Foundation Marks Older Americans Month and Celebrates 10 Years of Safe Banking for Seniors](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-marks-older-americans-month-and-celebrates-10-years-of-safe-banking-for-seniors/) - In recognition of Older Americans Month, the ABA Foundation today celebrated the 10-year anniversary of its Safe Banking for Seniors program—an industry-leading initiative that equips banks with practical, ready-to-use tools to help older adults and their caregivers protect themselves from financial exploitation. Over the past decade, more than 2,050 banks have used Safe Banking for Seniors resources
- [FDIC: Anchor Bank Assumes Insured Deposits of Community Bank and Trust - West Georgia, LaGrange, Georgia](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-anchor-bank-assumes-insured-deposits-of-community-bank-and-trust-west-georgia-lagrange-georgia/) - Community Bank and Trust - West Georgia of LaGrange, Georgia was closed today by the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver. The FDIC entered into an agreement with Anchor Bank of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida to assume substantially all insured deposits and acquire certain assets
- [ABA: ABA Applauds House Passage of the 2026 Farm Bill](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-house-passage-of-the-2026-farm-bill/) - “We thank the House for passing the 2026 Farm Bill, critical legislation that supports farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across the country. Banks remain a primary source of credit for agricultural producers of all sizes, and this bill strengthens the tools lenders need to meet the evolving needs of rural America. “The Farm Bill includes
- [ABA: Statement on CFPB's Section 1071 Final Rule](https://www.learncra.com/aba-statement-on-cfpbs-section-1071-final-rule/) - "We applaud the CFPB for finalizing a streamlined Section 1071 rule that addresses significant legal and operational concerns from the prior rule while providing clearer, more workable requirements for banks. This final 1071 rule appropriately refocuses on core lenders, products and data points without imposing undue compliance costs that would make it harder for America’s
- [ICBA: ICBA Congratulates House on Passage of Farm Bill](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-congratulates-house-on-passage-of-farm-bill/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on House passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (H.R. 7567) on a 224-200 vote. “ICBA and the nation’s community bankers congratulate the House of Representatives on passage of the farm bill. This is an
- [ICBA: Statement on CFPB’s Final Rule to Implement Section 1071 Small-Business Reporting Requirements Issued](https://www.learncra.com/icba-statement-on-cfpbs-final-rule-to-implement-section-1071-small-business-reporting-requirements-issued/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s final rule opens in a new tabto implement Section 1071 small-business reporting requirements. “ICBA commends the administration for heeding community banker concerns with the CFPB’s 1071 rule and making needed improvements to help mitigate the
- [HUD: Agency Moving Forward on Bold Homelessness Reform](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-moving-forward-on-bold-homelessness-reform/) - Today, HUD is announcing that homelessness-related service providers across the nation can expect the 2026 Continuum of Care (CoC) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to be published by June 1, 2026. Further, applicants can expect awards to be made by December 1, 2026. The CoC Program is a national competition designed to promote community-wide efforts
- [HUD: Task Force Publishes Report on Eradicating "Anti-Christian Bias"and Restoring Religious Liberty](https://www.learncra.com/hud-task-force-publishes-report-on-eradicating-anti-christian-biasand-restoring-religious-liberty/) - Report details the Biden administration’s radical efforts to punish Christians and highlights President Trump’s efforts to restore religious liberty Today, the Task Force to Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias published a report detailing how the Biden administration’s policies spread anti-Christian bias throughout the federal government. The Department of Housing and Urban Development worked closely with the Department of Justice
- [ABA: ABA & State Bankers Associations Urge OCC to Close Yield Loopholes in Stablecoin Rule](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-state-bankers-associations-urge-occ-to-close-yield-loopholes-in-stablecoin-rule/) - The American Bankers Association, joined by 52 state bankers associations, today submitted a comment letter to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency urging the agency to strengthen its proposed rule implementing the GENIUS Act to ensure a meaningful and enforceable prohibition on interest and yield payments tied to stablecoins. Separately, ABA also submitted its own detailed comment
- [ABA: Submissions Now Open for 14th Annual Community Commitment Awards](https://www.learncra.com/aba-submissions-now-open-for-14th-annual-community-commitment-awards/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation is now accepting submissions for its 14th annual Community Commitment Awards, ABA’s highest honors for extraordinary community engagement. Banks of all sizes are encouraged to enter successful community initiatives for the awards, which recognize innovative, high-impact bank programs that improve the quality of life for the communities they serve. The entry
- [Agencies Issue Host State Loan-to-Deposit Ratios](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-host-state-loan-to-deposit-ratios-6/) - Federal bank regulatory agencies today jointly issued updated host state loan-to-deposit ratios, as required by law. Each ratio compares the total loans in a state to total deposits in the state for all banks that are legally operating in that state. These ratios replace those issued in May 2025. By law, a bank is generally prohibited
- [Treasury: Department Moves to Prevent Abuse of Community Development Financial Institutions Fund Programs](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-department-moves-to-prevent-abuse-of-community-development-financial-institutions-fund-programs/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced today that is has initiated a review of certified Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) to identify potential violations of applicable law or CDFI requirements and to help ensure that CDFIs that receive federal assistance act as proper stewards of taxpayer funds. “CDFIs play a critical role in
- [ICBA: New Polling Shows Dominant Support for Community Banks Amid Debate Over Digital Assets](https://www.learncra.com/icba-new-polling-shows-dominant-support-for-community-banks-amid-debate-over-digital-assets/) - With community bankers gathering in Washington this week for the Independent Community Bankers of America’s 2026 ICBA Capital Summit, new polling data show that Americans support community banks and want to ensure the industry is not harmed in the current debate over digital assets policy. “As community bankers representing local communities nationwide gather in Washington
- [ICBA: New Polling Shows Public Support for Community Bank Policy Priorities](https://www.learncra.com/icba-new-polling-shows-public-support-for-community-bank-policy-priorities/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today is kicking off the 2026 ICBA Capital Summit in Washington with the release of new polling data showing Americans support community banker views on the pressing issues attendees will be discussing with policymakers. “As community bankers hold in-person meetings with their members of Congress this week, new
- [SBA: National Small Business Week 2026 Virtual Summit Agenda Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-national-small-business-week-2026-virtual-summit-agenda-announced/) - America’s Small Business Development Center to Co-host Free Two-Day Virtual Summit from May 5-6 Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced its full agendafor the National Small Business Week 2026 Virtual Summit, a free two-day online event that will take place May 5-6. The event is co-sponsored by America’s Small Business Development Center (ASBDC) and will feature educational workshops presented by cosponsors, access to
- [HUD: HUD and USDA Announce Major Rescission of Building Code Requirements](https://www.learncra.com/hud-hud-and-usda-announce-major-rescission-of-building-code-requirements/) - Secretary Scott Turner and Secretary Brooke Rollins today announced the rescission of a costly Biden Administration-era policy which added at least $20,000 to the cost of home construction. A 2024 Final Determination issued under President Biden rendered all new home construction ineligible for an FHA or USDA-backed mortgage loan unless the home was built according
- [FHFA: House Price Index Unchanged in February 2026; Up 1.7 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-unchanged-in-february-2026-up-1-7-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices were unchanged in February, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 1.7 percent from February 2025 to February 2026. The previously reported 0.1 percent price change in January was revised upward to 0.2 percent. For the nine census divisions, seasonally adjusted monthly home
- [FEMA: Over $137 Million in Federal Funding Announced to Help States and Local Communities Protect Against Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/fema-over-137-million-in-federal-funding-announced-to-help-states-and-local-communities-protect-against-disasters/) - Thanks to the Trump Administration, more money is flowing to American communities Today, the Federal Emergency Management Agency announced more than $137 million in funding to help states prevent damage from future disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes and wildfires. These awards will help to fund more than 50 projects in 20 states and territories across the country. Under the empowering leadership of Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, FEMA is
- [HUD: Agency Empowers Real Estate Agents to Better Support American Homebuyers](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-empowers-real-estate-agents-to-better-support-american-homebuyers/) - Real estate agents are not breaking the law when they discuss crime rates and school quality with prospective homebuyers and renters. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sent a “Dear Colleague” letter to real estate professionals clarifying they are not violating the Fair Housing Act when they share information with prospective homebuyers
- [OCC: Two Interim Final Actions Issued Clarifying Bank Powers under Federal Law and the Preemption of a Related State Law](https://www.learncra.com/occ-two-interim-final-actions-issued-clarifying-bank-powers-under-federal-law-and-the-preemption-of-a-related-state-law/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced an interim final rule and interim final order related to activities of national banks and Federal savings associations. The interim final rule clarifies the longstanding powers under Federal law for national banks to charge certain fees, regardless of whether those fees are set by
- [Treasury: Form 990 Transparency Initiative Announced to Expose Hidden Funding and Strengthen Oversight](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-form-990-transparency-initiative-announced-to-expose-hidden-funding-and-strengthen-oversight/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury today announced that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) plans to revise the Form 990 to improve transparency, strengthen tax administration, and provide clearer reporting on certain activities of tax-exempt organizations described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, including government contracts, government grants, and fiscal sponsorship arrangements. The
- [FEMA: DHS Secretary Mullin Unlocks More Than $585 Million in Disaster Recovery for Communities](https://www.learncra.com/fema-dhs-secretary-mullin-unlocks-more-than-585-million-in-disaster-recovery-for-communities/) - DHS and FEMA continue to deliver federal funding to areas affected by disasters as the current lapse in DHS funding approaches 70 days Today, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced more than $585 million in additional disaster relief funding to support ongoing recovery efforts from a variety of natural disasters. FEMA has continued to provide funding as responsibly
- [FEMA: More Than $657 Million Approved to Reimburse States, Medical Facilities for Backlog of Public Assistance](https://www.learncra.com/fema-more-than-657-million-approved-to-reimburse-states-medical-facilities-for-backlog-of-public-assistance/) - Today, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced more than $657 million in FEMA funding to reimburse states, local governments and health care facilities for their costs to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. FEMA has continued to provide funding as responsibly as possible, forecasting that the agency would be funded. The lapse in appropriations has drastically depleted
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-the-commonwealth-of-the-northern-mariana-islands-2/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Super Typhoon Sinlaku from April 11-18, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals and households throughout the entire Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, including Saipan,
- [Census Bureau: New Data Released from Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-data-released-from-household-trends-and-outlook-pulse-survey-2/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released new data on employment, food sufficiency, housing status, difficulty of paying usual household expenses, use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and other topics from the Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey (HTOPS). These data – collected from a sample of about 30,000 households in June 2025 – cover the nation and
- [ABA: Bankers Nationwide Mark Teach Children to Save Day](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bankers-nationwide-mark-teach-children-to-save-day/) - As part of Financial Literacy Month, bankers across the country are marking the ABA Foundation's annual Teach Children to Save Day today by volunteering in classrooms and communities to help young people build essential money skills, reinforcing the banking industry’s long standing commitment to youth financial education. “Teach Children to Save Day highlights the powerful role bankers play
- [Census Bureau: New Data on Public Employment and Payroll Now Available](https://www.learncra.com/fema-new-data-on-public-employment-and-payroll-now-available/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released a new summary report and data tables for the 2025 Annual Survey of Public Employment & Payroll (ASPEP). These statistics provide a comprehensive look at the employment of the nation’s state and local governments. The survey provides state and local government data on full- and part-time employment; full-time equivalent employment; and
- [ICBA: ICBA Commends House Financial Services Committee for Advancing 1071 Relief for Community Banks](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-commends-house-financial-services-committee-for-advancing-1071-relief-for-community-banks/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on the House Financial Services Committee’s passage of the Small LENDER Act (H.R. 941), ICBA-advocated legislation to exempt most community banks from small-business data collection and reporting requirements under Section 1071 of the Dodd-Frank Act. “ICBA and the nation’s
- [FEMA: Over $250 million in Federal Funding Announced to Help States and Local Communities Protect against Floods](https://www.learncra.com/fema-over-250-million-in-federal-funding-announced-to-help-states-and-local-communities-protect-against-floods/) - Today, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced more than $250 million in funding to help states prevent damage from future flood disasters. Under the leadership of Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, FEMA has been empowered to expeditiously work on pending mitigation grant awards. At his direction, FEMA is moving forward with plans to
- [SBA: National Small Business Week 2026 Cosponsors Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-national-small-business-week-2026-cosponsors-announced/) - America’s SBDC to Co-Host NSBW Two-Day Virtual Summit Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced its full list of cosponsors for National Small Business Week 2026, which will take place from May 3-9. America’s Small Business Development Center (ASBDC) will cohost this year’sVirtual Summit, a free two-day online event that will take place May 5-6, featuring educational workshops presented by cosponsors, access
- [SBA: Relief Offered to Hawaii Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought](https://www.learncra.com/sba-relief-offered-to-hawaii-small-businesses-and-private-nonprofits-affected-by-drought/) - Low interest disaster loans now available The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Hawaii to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning Jan. 1. The declaration covers the Hawaii counties of Hawaii, Honolulu, Kalawao, Kauai, and Maui. Under this declaration,
- [HUD: Disaster Aid & Financial Flexibility Delivered for Hawaii Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-hawaii-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the state of Hawaii to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the Kona low weather systems on March 10-24, 2026. “When disasters strike, HUD is here to support American families when they need it most,” said Secretary Scott Turner. “Our team is assisting
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $6.8 Million in Disaster Supplemental Funding to Support Automotive Workforce Development in Augusta, GA](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-6-8-million-in-disaster-supplemental-funding-to-support-automotive-workforce-development-in-augusta-ga/) - The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded a $6.8 million grant to the Augusta Technical Foundation, Inc. in Augusta, Georgia, for the development of a state-of-the-art automotive workforce training facility. This award will enable Augusta Technical Foundation, Inc. to renovate and refurbish a 65,000-square foot former automotive dealership, providing classrooms and
- [CFPB: New Report Issued on Debt Burdens Among Credit-Linked Consumers in the United States](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-new-report-issued-on-debt-burdens-among-credit-linked-consumers-in-the-united-states/) - Using consumer credit record data, CFPB researchers document how often consumers share credit with likely-household members, what types of credit they share, and what we might miss by focusing solely on individuals. The report shows that credit-linked consumers (a household-like construct the authors define) generally have better financial outcomes than consumers who are unlinked, even
- [FHFA:  Federal Housing Administration Joins Fannie and Freddie in Implementing VantageScore 4.0 and FICO 10T Credit Scores](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-federal-housing-administration-joins-fannie-and-freddie-in-implementing-vantagescore-4-0-and-fico-10t-credit-scores/) - Homebuying Advances into New Era of Credit Score Competition Today the U.S. government is ushering in a new era of competition in our nation’s mortgage market. In a joint announcement, HUD Secretary Scott Turner and FHFA Director William J. Pulte announced that the Federal Housing Administration and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are implementing their first
- [ABA: ABA Offers Congressional Testimony on Credit Reporting and Access to Credit](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-offers-congressional-testimony-on-credit-reporting-and-access-to-credit/) - The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a critical consumer protection law that supports responsible lending, and policymakers should avoid changes that could restrict credit availability by reducing data accuracy or adding complexity, the American Bankers Association testified before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Financial Institutions today. Veneshia Ferdinand, assistant vice president and director
- [ICBA: ICBA to Congress: Ensure Digital Assets Legislation Bars Interest on Payment Stablecoins to Avoid Harming Local Economies](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-to-congress-ensure-digital-assets-legislation-bars-interest-on-payment-stablecoins-to-avoid-harming-local-economies/) - As Congress looks to advance digital asset market structure legislation, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today is calling on lawmakers to ensure the measure addresses concerns with the harmful impact on local economies of allowing crypto exchanges and other intermediaries to pay interest or yield on payment stablecoins. A recent Council of Economic
- [FEMA: President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Hawaii](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-hawaii/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Hawaii to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred March 10-24, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the City and County of Honolulu, as well as Hawaii
- [Census Bureau: 2025 Annual Survey of State Government Tax Collections Data Now Available](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-2025-annual-survey-of-state-government-tax-collections-data-now-available/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released new tables and files containing detailed data from its 2025 Annual Survey of State Government Tax Collections (STC), including taxes imposed and collected by state governments and the District of Columbia. These data cover five broad tax categories and up to 25 tax subcategories. Congress, federal agencies, state and local governments,
- [Census Bureau: Most Common First Names and Last Names in the 2020 Census Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-most-common-first-names-and-last-names-in-the-2020-census-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released a series of data tables of the most common first and last names reported in the 2020 Census. The tables include national-level counts of: Last names by race and Hispanic origin. First names by race and Hispanic origin. First names by sex. A summary table is also available that compares the most common names
- [SBA: Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Programs Reauthorized](https://www.learncra.com/sba-small-business-innovation-research-and-small-business-technology-transfer-programs-reauthorized/) - S. 3971 backs America’s Seed Fund programs for five years, adds reforms to strengthen national security, accountability, and innovation Today, President Donald J. Trump signed into law S. 3971, the Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act, which reauthorizes and reforms the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. SBA Administrator Kelly
- [ABA: Foundation Testifies on Protecting Older Americans from Financial Exploitation](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-testifies-on-protecting-older-americans-from-financial-exploitation/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation today testified before the Senate Special Committee on Aging, for its hearing, “Empowering Seniors Through Financial Literacy: Tools to Protect Savings, Prevent Fraud, and Promote Independence.” The Foundation outlined the critical role banks play in protecting older Americans from fraud and financial exploitation while calling for strengthened national coordination, expanded financial literacy
- [HUD: More Than $1.1 Billion Investment Unveiled for Affordable Housing Initiatives in Tribal Communities](https://www.learncra.com/hud-more-than-1-1-billion-investment-unveiled-for-affordable-housing-initiatives-in-tribal-communities/) - The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Office of Native American Programs today announced more than $1.1 billion in Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) funding for eligible American Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Villages, and Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) to support affordable housing projects in nearly 600 Tribal communities. “HUD is fully committed to
- [FEMA: President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Idaho](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-idaho/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Idaho to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by straight-line winds from December 16-18, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and
- [Treasury: New Rules Proposed to Prevent Abuse of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund Programs](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-new-rules-proposed-to-prevent-abuse-of-community-development-financial-institutions-cdfi-fund-programs/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced today that the CDFI Fund will issue rules concerning the treatment of CDFI Fund awards under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA). The rules are intended to ensure compliance with federal law and that taxpayer-funded federal public benefits are not diverted to subsidize
- [FEMA: President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Montana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-montana-2/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Montana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe winter storm and straight-line winds December 17-18, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis
- [FEMA: President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Montana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-montana/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Montana to supplement recovery efforts in the area affected by the severe storms and flooding from December 9 - 11, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis
- [FEMA: President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Alaska](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-alaska/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Alaska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm from December 6-9, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work
- [FEMA: President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for South Carolina](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-south-carolina/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of South Carolina to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe winter storm from January 21-27, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency
- [FEMA: President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for South Dakota](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-south-dakota/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of South Dakota to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by straight-line winds from December 17-18, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and
- [FEMA: President Donald J. Trump Grants Additional Assistance for Mississippi](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-grants-additional-assistance-for-mississippi/) - FEMA announced that President Donald J. Trump made additional federal assistance available to disaster survivors to aid in their recovery from the severe winter storm that occurred from January 23-27, 2026. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Adams, Alcorn, Attala, Benton, Bolivar, Calhoun, Carroll, Claiborne, Coahoma, DeSoto, Grenada, Holmes, Humphreys, Issaquena, Jefferson, Lafayette,
- [FEMA: President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Washington](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-washington/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Washington to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from December 5-19, 2025. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Chelan, Grays Harbor, King, Lewis, Pacific, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston
- [FEMA: President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Oregon](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-donald-j-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-oregon/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Oregon to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from December 15-21, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Guam](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-guam/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to Guam to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Typhoon Sinlaku beginning April 11, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and
- [Census Bureau: New 2025 U.S. Population Estimates by Age and Sex Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-2025-u-s-population-estimates-by-age-and-sex-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released a downloadable file containing estimates of the nation’s resident population by single year of age and sex as of July 1, 2025. In the coming months, the Census Bureau will release housing unit estimates for the nation, states, and counties, and population estimates for cities and towns. Future releases also include population estimates by
- [FDIC: Supervisory Guidance on Multiple Re-Presentment NSF Fees Rescinded](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-supervisory-guidance-on-multiple-re-presentment-nsf-fees-rescinded/) - Summary: On June 16, 2023, the FDIC issued a Financial Institution Letter (FIL-32-2023) titled FDIC Clarifying Supervisory Approach Regarding Supervisory Guidance on Multiple Re-Presentment NSF Fees. This guidance described the FDIC’s supervisory approach relating to supervised institutions assessing multiple non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees arising from the re-presentment of the same unpaid transaction. The FDIC is rescinding FIL-32-2023
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $8.3 Million to Support Economic Development Projects in Three States](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-8-3-million-to-support-economic-development-projects-in-three-states/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced that it has invested $8.3 million to support economic development projects in three states. The awards are provided through EDA’s Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs, which leverage existing regional assets and support the implementation of economic development strategies to support distressed communities. The EDA investments announced today are: Aberdeen Development Corporation (Aberdeen, South Dakota). A
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Invests $4.9 Million in Disaster Supplemental Funding to Support Projects in States Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-invests-4-9-million-in-disaster-supplemental-funding-to-support-projects-in-states-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is investing $4.9 million in Disaster Supplemental funding to support economic development projects in states impacted by storms and natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. The EDA investments announced today are: City of Center, Texas (Center, Texas). A $2.5 million grant for wastewater infrastructure improvements to support job creation and business expansion while providing resilience from future
- [ABA: Foundation Offers Comments to Treasury on Updating National Financial Literacy Strategy](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-offers-comments-to-treasury-on-updating-national-financial-literacy-strategy/) - In a new comment letter submitted today to the U.S. Treasury, the ABA Foundation offered its perspective on updating the U.S. National Strategy for Financial Literacy. The letter underscores the critical role banks play in advancing financial capability nationwide and offers recommendations to strengthen public private collaboration, modernize financial education and better protect consumers from fraud and
- [Treasury: Rule Proposed to Implement the GENIUS Act’s Requirements to Counter Illicit Finance](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-rule-proposed-to-implement-the-genius-acts-requirements-to-counter-illicit-finance/) - Promotes American Leadership in Payment Stablecoins Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) and the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued a joint proposed rule to implement provisions of the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act). The proposed rule, which implements the GENIUS Act’s anti-money laundering
- [Treasury: New Guidance Unlocks Economic Opportunity for Overlooked Communities Through Updated Opportunity Zones](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-new-guidance-unlocks-economic-opportunity-for-overlooked-communities-through-updated-opportunity-zones/) - The Working Families Tax Cuts Boosts Opportunity Zone Tax Incentive, Driving More Capital to Communities Across America The U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released guidance for eligible communities across America to be designated as qualified opportunity zones (QOZs). Under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts, the permanent renewal of the
- [ICBA: ICBA and State Groups Urge FDIC to Reconsider Edward Jones Industrial Loan Company Approval](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-and-state-groups-urge-fdic-to-reconsider-edward-jones-industrial-loan-company-approval/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) and 38 state banking associations urged the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to reconsider its decision to approve Edward Jones’s deposit insurance application to form a Utah-chartered industrial loan company. In a letter to the FDIC opens, ICBA and the state banking groups cited Edward Jones's extensive network of more than
- [SBA: Dates Announced for National Small Business Week 2026 Virtual Summit](https://www.learncra.com/sba-dates-announced-for-national-small-business-week-2026-virtual-summit/) - Free online summit May 5-6 offers educational workshops, networking, and information on federal resources Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration and America’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) announced the dates for the National Small Business Week 2026 Virtual Summit. The free online summit, cosponsored by America’s SBDC, will take place on May 5 and 6 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- [FDIC: Proposal Approved to Implement GENIUS Act Requirements and Standards](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-proposal-approved-to-implement-genius-act-requirements-and-standards/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved a notice of proposed rulemaking that would implement certain requirements and standards under the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act). The proposed rule would establish a prudential framework for FDIC-supervised permitted payment stablecoins issuers, including requirements related to reserve assets, redemption,
- [Agencies Issue Final Rule to Prohibit Use of Reputation Risk by Regulators](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-final-rule-to-prohibit-use-of-reputation-risk-by-regulators/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the agencies) today jointly issued a final rule that codifies the elimination of reputation risk from their supervisory programs. The rule defines “reputation risk” and prohibits the agencies from criticizing or taking adverse action against an institution on the basis of
- [ICBA: ICBA Opposes OCC Approval of Coinbase’s National Trust Bank Charter Application](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-opposes-occ-approval-of-coinbases-national-trust-bank-charter-application/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today expressed opposition to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s conditional approval opens in a new tabof Coinbase’s application for a national trust bank charter for its subsidiary, Coinbase National Trust Co. “Today’s conditional approval of Coinbase’s trust charter application is a grave mistake that will only serve
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-122/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in January 2026. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [OCC: Deputy Comptrollers for Chartering, Organization and Structure Announced](https://www.learncra.com/occ-deputy-comptrollers-for-chartering-organization-and-structure-announced/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced the promotions of Jason Almonte and Sebastian Astrada to Deputy Comptrollers for Chartering, Organization & Structure (CO&S). In their new roles, Mr. Almonte and Mr. Astrada will set policies and provide executive direction on federal bank applications, chartering, and corporate activities, policies, processes, and
- [Census Bureau: New Data Released From Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-data-released-from-household-trends-and-outlook-pulse-survey/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released new data on food and nutrition, health and well-being, transportation, employment, education and other topics from the Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey (HTOPS). These data, collected from a sample of about 30,000 households in April 2025, provide insights for the nation as well as smaller geographic areas defined by
- [SBA: New “Made in America Loan Guarantee” Announced to Restore Manufacturing Dominance](https://www.learncra.com/sba-new-made-in-america-loan-guarantee-announced-to-restore-manufacturing-dominance/) - 90% Loan Guarantee will Help Manufacturers Reshore American Industry, Jobs, and National Security Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that small manufacturers across the country will soon be eligible for enhanced support through the SBA’s International Trade Loan (ITL) Program. The loans, which come with a 90% federal guarantee, will help manufacturers expand facilities, hire
- [SBA: National Small Business Week 2026 Award Winners Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-national-small-business-week-2026-award-winners-announced/) - Administrator Loeffler to Recognize Honorees during Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on May 3 Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced its state and territory Small Business Persons of the Year for National Small Business Week (NSBW), which will take place from May 3–9. SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler will recognize the state, territory, and specialty award winners at a
- [FDIC: 2026 Consumer Compliance Supervisory Highlights Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-2026-consumer-compliance-supervisory-highlights-issued/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued the 2026 edition of the Consumer Compliance Supervisory Highlights. The purpose of this publication is to enhance transparency regarding the FDIC’s consumer compliance supervisory activities and to provide a high-level overview of consumer compliance issues identified in 2025 through the FDIC’s supervision of state non-member banks and thrifts.
- [FHFA: House Price Index® Up 0.1 Percent in January; Up 1.6 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-up-0-1-percent-in-january-up-1-6-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices rose 0.1 percent in January, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 1.6 percent from January 2025 to January 2026. The previously reported 0.1 percent price change in December was revised upward to 0.3 percent. For the nine census divisions, seasonally adjusted monthly home price
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 18 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-18-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released-2/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of March 1, 2026, through March 31, 2026. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [OCC: Mortgage Performance Report for Fourth Quarter 2025 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-mortgage-performance-report-for-fourth-quarter-2025-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) reported on the performance of first-lien mortgages in the federal banking system during the fourth quarter of 2025. The OCC Mortgage Metrics Report, Fourth Quarter 2025 showed that 97.5 percent of mortgages included in the report were current and performing at the end of the quarter, a slight
- [OCC: Final Rule Issued to Rescind Recovery Planning Guidelines](https://www.learncra.com/occ-final-rule-issued-to-rescind-recovery-planning-guidelines/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced a final rule to rescind its recovery planning guidelines for certain large insured national banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches (banks). “Recovery planning guidelines that require large banks to engage in prescriptive planning activities do little to improve their ability to manage through
- [CFPB: 2025 HMDA Data on Mortgage Lending Now Available](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-2025-hmda-data-on-mortgage-lending-now-available/) - The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) Modified Loan Application Register (LAR) data for 2025 are now available on the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council’s (FFIEC) HMDA Platform for approximately 4,768 HMDA filers. The published data contain loan-level information filed by financial institutions and modified to protect consumer privacy. To increase public accessibility, the annual loan-level
- [Treasury: Public Comment Sought on GENIUS Act Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Concerning State-Level Regulatory Regimes](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-public-comment-sought-on-genius-act-notice-of-proposed-rulemaking-concerning-state-level-regulatory-regimes/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) seeking public comment related to Treasury’s implementation of the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act. The NPRM is the first regulation Treasury has proposed to implement the GENIUS Act. Under the GENIUS Act, payment stablecoin issuers with
- [Treasury: Treasury Recognizes National Financial Literacy Month](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-treasury-recognizes-national-financial-literacy-month/) - Secretary Bessent: “Financial Literacy Unlocks Opportunity for Every American” Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury recognizes the start of National Financial Literacy Month, reaffirming its commitment to advancing financial literacy and education across America. Throughout April, Treasury, in coordination with federal agencies represented on the Financial Literacy and Education Commission (FLEC), will announce and
- [ICBA: ICBA Celebrates Local Impact During Community Banking Month in April](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-celebrates-local-impact-during-community-banking-month-in-april/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) is celebrating Community Banking Month in April, highlighting the critical role community banks serve in powering local economies, supporting small businesses, and strengthening communities nationwide. Each year, Community Banking Month recognizes the industry’s relationship-driven model, which combines personalized service with modern financial tools to meet the evolving needs
- [SBA: Agency Announces "Grocery Guarantee" to Promote Affordability](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-announces-grocery-guarantee-to-promote-affordability/) - 90% Loan Guarantee Drives Capital to U.S. Food and Logistics Providers, Reduces Biden-era Price Pressures Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that small businesses across America’s food supply chain are now eligible for an enhanced “Grocery Guarantee” through the SBA International Trade Loan (ITL) Program. The loans, which come with a 90% federal guarantee, will
- [Treasury: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovation Series Launched](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-artificial-intelligence-ai-innovation-series-launched/) - The Office of the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) and the Treasury Department’s Artificial Intelligence Transformation Office (AITO) launched the AI Innovation Series this week, a public-private initiative to support the continued strength and resilience of the U.S. financial system in an era of accelerating technological change. Artificial intelligence is increasingly embedded in core financial
- [FEMA: States Granted Additional Time to Complete Critical Hazard Mitigation Projects](https://www.learncra.com/fema-states-granted-additional-time-to-complete-critical-hazard-mitigation-projects/) - Work Aligns with FEMA’s Commitment to Empowering States to Protect Communities The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that 19 states and two U.S. territories will have more time to finish projects that help prevent damage from disasters. These projects—funded through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Post Fire—aim to protect communities from
- [SBA: Washington Metro Area District Office Relocated to Herndon, VA](https://www.learncra.com/sba-washington-metro-area-district-office-relocated-to-herndon-va/) - Move improves accessibility for small businesses, enhances cost efficiency, and reflects agency’s Main Street First approach Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that it has relocated its Washington Metro Area District Office from downtown Washington, D.C., to Herndon, Virginia. The new location provides better access for small business owners and more cost-effective services for taxpayers
- [HUD: Fair Housing Investigation Launched into Washington State's Covenant Homeownership Program](https://www.learncra.com/hud-fair-housing-investigation-launched-into-washington-states-covenant-homeownership-program/) - FHEO is launching an investigation to determine if the Washington State Housing Finance Commission’s Covenant Homeownership Program violates the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing. The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Office for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) notified the Washington State Housing Finance Commission that it has launched an
- [Federal Reserve:  Governor Barr Delivers Speech on Developing Communities Through Public-Private Partnerships](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-governor-barr-delivers-speech-on-developing-communities-through-public-private-partnerships/) - Read the text of Governor Michael S. Barr's speech on "Developing Communities Through Public-private Partnerships" at the 2026 National Community Investment Conference, Phoenix, Arizona Thank you for inviting me here today. Let me also thank those at all 12 of the Reserve Banks, the Board of Governors, and the staff at FedCommunities for their efforts
- [Treasury: Financial Stability Oversight Council Issues Proposed Guidance on Nonbank Financial Company Designations](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-financial-stability-oversight-council-issues-proposed-guidance-on-nonbank-financial-company-designations/) - The Financial Stability Oversight Council (Council) today voted unanimously to issue for public comment proposed interpretative guidance on nonbank financial company designations. This proposed guidance would reinstitute a number of elements first introduced by the Council’s 2019 interpretive guidance and would add critical enhancements that reflect the Council’s current understanding of financial stability, underscoring the
- [ICBA: ICBA Thanks Lawmakers for Introducing New Bills Advancing the Deposit Insurance Debate](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-thanks-lawmakers-for-introducing-new-bills-advancing-the-deposit-insurance-debate/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on the introduction of several bills in the House opens in a new taband Senate opens in a new tabto reform the nation’s deposit insurance system. “ICBA and the nation’s community bankers thank members of Congress for introducing several bills that continue advancing
- [CFPB: Updated College Banking Product Agreements & Data Available for Review](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-updated-college-banking-product-agreements-data-available-for-review/) - The agreements and related information presented here are a sample of the data used in the CFPB's annual report to Congress and should not be considered comprehensive. The scope of the CFPB's observations was limited to the agreements and other public disclosures that were published by institutions related to each award year (interested parties should
- [FEMA: $1 Billion in Federal Funding Announced to Help States Mitigate Impact of Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/fema-1-billion-in-federal-funding-announced-to-help-states-mitigate-impact-of-disasters/) - Funding Opportunity Designed to Support Critical Infrastructure Projects that Save Lives The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today published the funding opportunity for the Fiscal Years 2024 and 2025 Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program. Through this funding opportunity, FEMA is making $1 billion in federal funding available to states, local governments, territories and
- [Census Bureau: Slow Population Growth Impacts Nation's Largest Counties Hardest](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-slow-population-growth-impacts-nations-largest-counties-hardest/) - Diminishing Population Gains in Metro Areas Highlight Nationwide Trend Population growth slowed in a majority of the nation’s 3,143 counties and the District of Columbia between July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025, according to the Vintage 2025 population estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. Among the 2,066 counties that grew between 2023
- [OCC: Comptroller Gould Issues Statement at Financial Stability Oversight Council Meeting Regarding Nonbank Financial Company Designations](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comptroller-gould-issues-statement-at-financial-stability-oversight-council-meeting-regarding-nonbank-financial-company-designations/) - Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan V. Gould today issued remarks at the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) meeting about the FSOC’s framework for considering the designation of a nonbank financial company. In his remarks, Comptroller Gould shared the OCC’s support for the proposed framework, which wisely reverts to a common-sense approach consistent with the law.
- [SBA: Agency Celebrates Success of First-Ever Made in America Matchmaking Expo for Suppliers and Manufacturers](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-celebrates-success-of-first-ever-made-in-america-matchmaking-expo-for-suppliers-and-manufacturers/) - 675 Small Businesses Connected with Dozens of Large Companies to Reshore American Industry Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the results of its inaugural 2026 Supplier Matchmaking Expo, a first-of-its-kind event held last week in partnership with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Expo was designed to advance the Made
- [FDIC: Board of Directors Rescinds Statement of Policy on Qualifications for Failed Bank Acquisitions](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-of-directors-rescinds-statement-of-policy-on-qualifications-for-failed-bank-acquisitions/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved the rescission of a Statement of Policy on Qualifications for Failed Bank Acquisitions (Statement of Policy) issued in 2009 and related questions and answers issued in 2010. The Statement of Policy applied to private investments in certain companies that sought to assume deposit liabilities
- [Agencies Request Comment on Proposals to Modernize the Regulatory Capital Framework and Maintain the Strength of the Banking System](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-request-comment-on-proposals-to-modernize-the-regulatory-capital-framework-and-maintain-the-strength-of-the-banking-system/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today requested comment on three proposals to modernize the regulatory capital framework for banks of all sizes. The proposals would streamline capital requirements and better align regulatory capital with risk while maintaining the safety and soundness of the banking system. The federal bank regulatory agencies today requested comment on three proposals
- [FHFA: Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Remove Certain Homeowners Insurance Requirements That Will Reduce Costs](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-fannie-mae-and-freddie-mac-remove-certain-homeowners-insurance-requirements-that-will-reduce-costs/) - American homebuyers are about to get a break. New rules for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac mortgages will help to lower home insurance bills for millions of families, especially in rural areas and condo buildings. The changes fix expensive, stupid Biden-era requirements with simple, common-sense updates that respond to today’s skyrocketing insurance prices. “Thanks to
- [OCC: Registration Opens for Community Bank Director and Senior Management Workshops](https://www.learncra.com/occ-registration-opens-for-community-bank-director-and-senior-management-workshops/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today opened registration for its 2026 schedule of in-person workshops for board directors and senior management of national community banks and federal savings associations. The continuation of these community bank focused workshops builds on the OCC’s intentional efforts to support community banks through dedicated educational opportunities.
- [FEMA: Six-Month Extension Approved for Direct Housing Program for Helene and Milton Survivors](https://www.learncra.com/fema-six-month-extension-approved-for-direct-housing-program-for-helene-and-milton-survivors/) - FEMA has approved a six-month extension of direct temporary housing assistance for survivors of hurricanes Helene and Milton who remain in FEMA-provided units. This extension, coordinated closely with the state of Florida, allows eligible residents without a scheduled move-out date to remain in FEMA-provided temporary housing on a month-to-month basis until October 11, 2026. As
- [ICBA: 2026-27 Executive Committee Announced, West Virginia Banker Elected Chairman](https://www.learncra.com/icba-2026-27-executive-committee-announced-west-virginia-banker-elected-chairman/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today announced the election of its 2026-27 executive committee during the 2026 ICBA LIVE national convention in San Diego. Alice P. Frazier, president and CEO of Potomac Bank in Charles Town, W. Va., was elected ICBA chairman and will serve as chairman of the ICBA Executive Committee and
- [SBA: Agency Bans Foreign Nationals from Accessing SBA-Backed Loans](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-bans-foreign-nationals-from-accessing-sba-backed-loans/) - Agency reserves federally guaranteed lending for American citizens Today, in the effort to prioritize American job creators, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issued a new policy notice to ban foreign nationals and non-citizens from accessing SBA-guaranteed small business loans. The latest notice, which applies to the agency’s Surety Bond and Microloan Programs, builds on the policy change implemented earlier this month –
- [HUD: Secretary Turner Applauds President Trump for Cutting Red Tape, Restoring Housing Affordability, and Increasing Access to Home Loans](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-applauds-president-trump-for-cutting-red-tape-restoring-housing-affordability-and-increasing-access-to-home-loans/) - HUD Attacks Barriers to Building Homes and Mortgage Credit Secretary Scott Turner applauds President Trump’s Executive Orders (EO), “Removing Regulatory Barriers to Affordable Home Construction” and “Promoting Access to Mortgage Credit.” The first EO terminates burdensome regulations that stall housing construction, deplete supply, and increase housing costs for hardworking American families. The second reduces regulatory
- [ABA: ABA Applauds Executive Order on Mortgage Lending](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-executive-order-on-mortgage-lending/) - "We applaud today’s White House executive order to expand bank participation in mortgage lending and give more Americans the chance to own a home. The proposed regulatory changes would help remove some of the significant obstacles preventing many banks, especially community banks, from being able to fully participate in the mortgage market. ABA supports policy
- [ICBA: ICBA Commends Trump Administration for Executive Order to Help Community Banks Promote Housing Affordability](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-commends-trump-administration-for-executive-order-to-help-community-banks-promote-housing-affordability/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on President Donald Trump’s executive order directing regulatory reforms that will help community banks promote housing affordability. “ICBA and the nation’s community bankers commend the Trump administration for today’s executive order promoting access to mortgage credit. Directing federal regulators to
- [HUD: Agency Appeals Judicial Decision to Shift Homelessness Paradigm](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-appeals-judicial-decision-to-shift-homelessness-paradigm/) - Rejects Subsidized Drug Use, Half-Million Dollar Salaries, and Lifelong Handouts The Department of Justice (DOJ) on behalf of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is appealing the Federal District Court of Rhode Island’s preliminary injunction. The injunction denies HUD the ability to award homelessness grants under its policies that protect homeless individuals from
- [CDFI Fund: Public Comment Sought on the Bank Enterprise Award Program Application](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-public-comment-sought-on-the-bank-enterprise-award-program-application/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on continuing information collections, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Currently, the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund), U.S.
- [ABA: New Survey Finds Americans Want Fintechs to Follow Bank Rules, Support Protecting Local Lending from Stablecoin Risks](https://www.learncra.com/aba-new-survey-finds-americans-want-fintechs-to-follow-bank-rules-support-protecting-local-lending-from-stablecoin-risks/) - Morning Consult poll also shows consumers find credit card marketplace highly competitive, are wary of credit card price controls A new survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Bankers Association found that consumers want nonbank fintech companies to follow the same rules as banks. More than 8 in 10 (84%) agree that any business
- [ICBA: ICBA Congratulates House Agriculture Committee on Passing New Farm Bill](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-congratulates-house-agriculture-committee-on-passing-new-farm-bill/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement congratulating the House Agriculture Committee on advancing a new farm bill on a 34-17 vote. “ICBA and the nation’s community banks support passage of the farm bill with further modifications to help ensure farmers and ranchers and the community
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-121/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in December 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting
- [CDFI Fund: Public Comment Sought on Opportunity Zone Nomination Tool](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-public-comment-sought-on-opportunity-zone-nomination-tool/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites state government officials—such as State Chief Executive Officers—and members of the general public to comment on continuing information collections, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Currently, the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI
- [ABA: Bank Economists Believe Credit Conditions Will Hold Relatively Steady Over Next Six Months](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-economists-believe-credit-conditions-will-hold-relatively-steady-over-next-six-months/) - While credit conditions are expected to continue softening over the next six months as the labor market faces challenges, they will hold relatively steady according to the American Bankers Association’s latest Credit Conditions Index released today. ABA’s Credit Conditions Index examines a suite of indices derived from the quarterly outlook for credit markets produced by ABA’s
- [ABA : California High School Produces Both First- & Second-Place Winners in National Lights, Camera, Save! Video Contest](https://www.learncra.com/aba-california-high-school-produces-both-first-second-place-winners-in-national-lights-camera-save-video-contest/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation has announced the national winners of the Lights, Camera, Save! teen video contest, a nationwide competition that encourages teens ages 13–18 to create a 30-second or less video educating their peers on the importance of smart money management. This year’s first place winner is Adam Costa, representing Montecito Bank & Trust in Santa Barbara,
- [ABA: Bank Economists See Moderate Growth, Persistent Inflation Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-economists-see-moderate-growth-persistent-inflation-amid-geopolitical-uncertainty/) - The American Bankers Association’s Economic Advisory Committee expects the U.S. economy to continue expanding through the remainder of 2026 and into 2027. The committee's latest forecast also expects inflation to remain above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target due in part to geopolitical events, including trade policy and the ongoing military action in the Middle East.The
- [ABA: Foundation & Government Agencies Release New Infographic to Help Americans Spot and Avoid Government Imposter Scams](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-government-agencies-release-new-infographic-to-help-americans-spot-and-avoid-government-imposter-scams/) - Released in recognition of the Social Security Administration’s ‘Slam the Scam’ Day As government imposter scams continue to rise nationwide, the ABA Foundation, alongside the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, Commodity Futures Trading Commission, U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission, United States Secret Service, United States Postal Inspection Service and Financial Industry Regulatory
- [Banking Agencies Clarify the Capital Treatment of Tokenized Securities](https://www.learncra.com/banking-agencies-clarify-the-capital-treatment-of-tokenized-securities/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today jointly issued answers to frequently asked questions to clarify the capital treatment of tokenized securities. A security is often referred to as “tokenized” when ownership rights in the security are represented using distributed ledger technology. The answers to the frequently asked questions clarify that an eligible tokenized security should
- [OCC: Final Rules Issued to Reduce Regulatory Burden for Community Banks](https://www.learncra.com/occ-final-rules-issued-to-reduced-regulatory-burden-for-community-banks/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced two final rules to reduce the regulatory burden for community banks. These actions build upon the OCC’s ongoing efforts to tailor bank supervision and regulation to bank risk profile and reduce burden for its regulated institutions so they can focus resources on core functions
- [SBA: Agency Highlights Working Capital Loans for U.S. Homebuilders](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-highlights-working-capital-loans-for-u-s-homebuilders/) - Up to $5 Million in Flexible Financing Available for Local Builders as Mortgage Rates Hit 3-Year Low for Homebuyers With U.S. mortgage rates dropping to below 6% for the first time in three years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is highlighting for homebuilders the 7(a) Working Capital Pilot (WCP) Program. With access to capital, homebuilders can accelerate residential
- [SBA: SBA & National Association of Manufacturers to Host National Supplier Matchmaking Expo on March 11th](https://www.learncra.com/sba-sba-national-association-of-manufacturers-to-host-national-supplier-matchmaking-expo-on-march-11th/) - Registration is Now Open for Inaugural Event to Promote Made in America Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that the inaugural 2026 Supplier Matchmaking Expo will take place on March 11, 2026 at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in Charlotte, North Carolina. The event, which is co-hosted by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), is designed to support the
- [HUD: Disaster Aid & Financial Flexibility Delivered for Louisiana Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-louisiana-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to state of Louisiana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm on January 23-27, 2026. “One of our core responsibilities at HUD is to help rebuild homes, businesses, and communities after natural disasters,” said HUD
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 24 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-24-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of February 1, 2026, through February 28, 2026. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [ICBA: ICBA Commends House Financial Services Committee for Advancing Main Street Capital Access Act](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-commends-house-financial-services-committee-for-advancing-main-street-capital-access-act/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today commended the House Financial Services Committee for advancing the Main Street Capital Access Act (H.R. 6955), ICBA-supported legislation to help community banks promote prosperity in local communities across the nation. “ICBA strongly supports the Main Street Capital Access Act, which includes policies that will transform the regulatory
- [SBA: Agency Moves to Terminate Over 620 Firms in 8(a) Federal Contracting Program That Refused to Turn Over Financial Data](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-moves-to-terminate-over-620-firms-in-8a-federal-contracting-program-that-refused-to-turn-over-financial-data/) - Nearly 20% of all 8(a) contractors removed for non-compliance after dramatic expansion under Biden-era DEI push Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) initiated termination proceedings to remove 628 firms from the 8(a) Business Development Program after they refused to comply with SBA’s order to turn over three years’ worth of financial documents for review. Last year, the SBA
- [ABA: Foundation, Working Credit & Wells Fargo Foundation Launch New Credit Education Campaign](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-working-credit-wells-fargo-foundation-launch-new-credit-education-campaign/) - The ABA Foundation today announced the launch of its Rebuild Right: Safe Credit Recovery & Responsible Debt Solutions campaign, a new national initiative designed to empower consumers to rebuild credit responsibly and avoid harmful financial pitfalls. The campaign, which will begin March 4 in recognition of National Consumer Protection Week, is hosted in collaboration with the Wells
- [FDIC: CRA Examination Schedules Issued for Second and Third Quarters 2026](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-cra-examination-schedules-issued-for-second-and-third-quarter-2026/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued the lists of institutions scheduled for a Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) examination during the second quarter 2026 and third quarter 2026. CRA regulations require each federal bank and thrift regulator to publish its quarterly CRA examination schedule at least 30 days before the beginning of each quarter. The
- [OCC: Comptroller Gould Testifies on Agency Priorities](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comptroller-gould-testifies-on-agency-priorities/) - Comptroller Jonathan V. Gould today testified on the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s (OCC) priorities and activities before the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Excerpts from Comptroller Gould’s testimony are below. The full written testimony can be found here. On risk tolerance: “In the years since the 2008 financial crisis, Washington
- [ICBA: ICBA Expresses Concerns with OCC National Trust Bank Chartering Final Rule](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-expresses-concerns-with-occ-national-trust-bank-chartering-final-rule/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s final rule opens in a new tab on national trust bank chartering. “ICBA and the nation’s community banks continue to have significant concerns with the OCC’s chartering rule for national trust banks,
- [Census Bureau: Main Release of Annual Integrated Economic Survey Data Published for the First Time](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-main-release-of-annual-integrated-economic-survey-data-published-for-the-first-time/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released the main set of data from the 2023 Annual Integrated Economic Survey (AIES), offering the first single, comprehensive annual snapshot of U.S. employer businesses. The AIES provides economic data — including business revenue, expenses, payroll and employment — at detailed geographies, which for many sectors were previously only available at
- [HUD: Secretary Turner Moves to Restore Self-Sufficiency and Dignity to Those Living in Public Housing](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-moves-to-restore-self-sufficiency-and-dignity-to-those-living-in-public-housing/) - Launches Work and Dignity Coalition in Champaign, Illinois Secretary Scott Turner today announced a new proposed rule to provide all public housing authorities (PHAs) and Section 8 project-based rental assistance (PBRA) owners flexibility to implement work requirements and time limits for non-elderly, non-disabled work-capable adults in HUD-funded housing. “Housing assistance was never meant to trap work-able individuals
- [FDIC: Deposit Insurance Application Approved for Edward Jones Bank, Salt Lake City, UT](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-deposit-insurance-application-approved-for-edward-jones-bank-salt-lake-city-ut/) - The Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today announced the approval of a deposit insurance application submitted by the Jones Financial Companies, L.L.L.P. to establish Edward Jones Bank, which will be a Utah-chartered industrial bank. Applications for deposit insurance are evaluated under a statutory framework of seven factors that include: the
- [OCC: Second and Third Quarter 2026 CRA Evaluation Schedule Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-second-and-third-quarter-2026-cra-evaluation-schedule-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released its schedule of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) evaluations to be conducted in the second and third quarters of 2026. The OCC encourages public comment on the CRA-related activities of the national banks and federal savings associations (collectively, banks) scheduled to be evaluated under the
- [HUD: Streamlined and Simplified Guidance Issued for Nonpayment of Rent in HUD-Subsidized Housing](https://www.learncra.com/hud-streamlined-and-simplified-guidance-issued-for-nonpayment-of-rent-in-hud-subsidized-housing/) - Secretary Scott Turner announced streamlined and simplified guidance for nonpayment of rent in HUD-subsidized housing. This action eliminates a COVID-era standard, undoing burdensome and costly rules promulgated by the Biden administration that required public housing agencies (PHAs) and property owners receiving HUD funding to provide 30-day written notification for nonpayment of rent prior to eviction.
- [OCC: Comments Requested on Proposal to Implement GENIUS Act](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comments-requested-on-proposal-to-implement-genius-act/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today issued a proposed rulemaking to implement the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act. The notice of proposed rulemaking generally sets forth, and seeks comment on, the regulations that would apply to permitted payment stablecoin issuers and foreign payment stablecoin issuers under
- [CDFI Fund: Effective Date Extended for CDFI Certification Small Business Loan Disclosure Policy](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-effective-date-extended-for-cdfi-certification-small-business-loan-disclosure-policy/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) has extended the effective date for when CDFI Certification Applicants and currently Certified Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) must begin implementing small business loan product disclosures to borrowers. In December 2023, the CDFI Fund released the final revised CDFI Certification Application. As part of the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for the District of Columbia](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-the-district-of-columbia-2/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the District of Columbia to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a sewer line collapse from Jan. 19, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency
- [HUD and Census Bureau: New Residential Sales Report for December 2025 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/hud-and-census-bureau-new-residential-sales-report-for-december-2025-issued/) - The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development jointly announced the following new residential sales statistics for December 2025: New Home Sales Sales of new single-family houses in December 2025 were at a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 745,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau and the
- [Federal Reserve: Statement Issued on Reputation Risk Proposal by Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle W. Bowman](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-statement-issued-on-reputation-risk-proposal-by-vice-chair-for-supervision-michelle-w-bowman/) - Following earlier actions to remove reputation risk from its supervision of banks, the Federal Reserve Board on Monday requested comment on a proposal to codify that removal. The proposal reiterates the Board's policy against penalizing or prohibiting an institution from banking a customer engaged in legal activity. "We have heard troubling cases of debanking—where supervisors
- [FHFA: U.S. House Prices Rise 1.8 Percent Year Over Year; Up 0.8 Percent Quarter Over Quarter](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-u-s-house-prices-rise-1-8-percent-year-over-year-up-0-8-percent-quarter-over-quarter/) - U.S. house prices rose 1.8 percent between the fourth quarter of 2024 and the fourth quarter of 2025, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices for the fourth quarter of 2025 rose 0.8 percent compared to the third quarter of 2025. FHFA’s seasonally adjusted monthly index for December rose 0.1 percent from November.
- [HUD: New Proposed Rule Issued to Require Proof of U.S Citizenship or Eligible Status for Every Resident in HUD-Funded Housing](https://www.learncra.com/hud-new-proposed-rule-issued-to-require-proof-of-u-s-citizens-or-eligible-status-for-every-resident-in-hud-funded-housing/) - Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced a new proposed rule to require proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible status for every resident in HUD-funded housing, including “mixed status households.” With this proposed rule, HUD will ensure that taxpayer-funded housing benefits only go to American citizens and eligible individuals for the first time in history.
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges Credit Union Tax Reform as Acquisitions of Tax-Paying Community Banks Continue](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-credit-union-tax-reform-as-acquisitions-of-tax-paying-community-banks-continue/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on the latest reported acquisition opens in a new tabof a tax-paying community bank by a tax-exempt credit union—the third deal in two weeks following several branch acquisition deals. “With tax-exempt credit unions resuming their rapid pace of community bank acquisitions
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Louisiana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-louisiana-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Louisiana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm from Jan. 23-27, 2026. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency
- [OCC: Comments Requested on Proposed Rulemaking on the Bank Appeals Process](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comments-requested-on-proposed-rulemaking-on-the-bank-appeals-process/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today requested comment on a proposal to establish revised procedures and policies for appeals by OCC-supervised entities of material supervisory determinations. The proposed changes reflect the OCC’s experience administering the bank appeals process and are intended to enhance the independence and efficiency of the appeals function. The proposal
- [CFPB: New "Estimating the Cost of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to Consumers" Report Released](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-new-estimating-the-cost-of-the-consumer-financial-protection-bureau-to-consumers-report-released/) - Download the Estimating the Cost of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to Consumers
- [HUD: New Appointments to the Manufactured Housing Consensus Committee Announced](https://www.learncra.com/hud-new-appointments-to-the-manufactured-housing-consensus-committee-announced/) - Appointments underscore Secretary Turner’s ongoing dedication to increasing the supply and affordability of manufactured homes for American homebuyers The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced today the appointment of six new members to serve on the Manufactured Housing Consensus Committee (MHCC), a Federal Advisory Committee. These appointments maintain the MHCC at 21
- [EDA: Inaugural Regional Commissions Convening Held in Charleston, WV](https://www.learncra.com/eda-inaugural-regional-commissions-convening-held-in-charleston-wv/) - Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) hosted the inaugural Regional Commissions Convening in Charleston, West Virginia. The event brought together representatives from EDA and regional commissions throughout the United States. This event was designed to foster improved coordination between EDA and the commissions, to better help distressed communities succeed in an
- [ABA: ABA Issues New Comment Letter Urging OCC to Provide Stronger Safeguards & Clearer Rules for Charter Applicants](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-issues-new-comment-letter-urging-occ-to-provide-stronger-safeguards-clearer-rules-for-charter-applicants/) - In a new comment letter submitted today, the American Bankers Association urged the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency to uphold strong safety and soundness standards, increase transparency in the chartering process, and move cautiously as new regulatory frameworks develop. The letter, submitted in response to the OCC’s National Bank Chartering Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, also
- [HUD: Fair Housing Investigation Launched into East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC)](https://www.learncra.com/hud-fair-housing-investigation-launched-into-east-plano-islamic-center-epic/) - Reported Discrimination in De Facto Muslim-Only Residential Development The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) has launched an investigation into EPIC Real Properties, Inc., and Community Capital Partners, LP for their planned Muslim housing development known as “The Meadow.” The Meadow, formally known as “EPIC City,”
- [HUD: Disaster Aid & Financial Flexibility Delivered to Mississippi Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-financial-flexibility-delivered-to-mississippi-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to state of Mississippi to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm on January 23-27, 2026. “One of our core responsibilities at HUD is to help rebuild homes, businesses, and communities after natural disasters,” said HUD
- [HUD: Disaster Aid & Financial Flexibility Delivered for Tennessee Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-tennessee-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to state of Tennessee to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm on January 22-27, 2026. “One of our core responsibilities at HUD is to help rebuild homes, businesses, and communities after natural disasters,” said HUD
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds House Passage of Housing for the 21st Century Act](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-house-passage-of-housing-for-the-21st-century-act/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) applauded the House of Representatives for today’s bipartisan passage of the Housing for the 21st Century Act (H.R. 6644), which includes ICBA-advocated community bank regulatory reforms and promotes housing affordability. “ICBA and the nation’s community banks strongly support the Housing for the 21st Century Act for its numerous
- [SBA: 2025 Boots to Business Instructor of the Year Award Winners Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-2025-boots-to-business-instructor-of-the-year-award-winners-announced/) - Recipients to be Recognized During Virtual Ceremony Feb. 19 The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) today announced the winners of the 2025 Boots to Business Instructor of the Year awards, honoring educators and professionals whose service and dedication have made a lasting difference for America’s service members, veterans, and military spouses pursuing entrepreneurship. These awards recognize individuals who
- [HUD: Manhattan Housing Authority in Manhattan, KS Placed Under Federal Monitorship Following Substantial Default Declaration](https://www.learncra.com/hud-manhattan-housing-authority-in-manhattan-ks-placed-under-federal-monitorship-following-substantial-default-declaration/) - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced that the Manhattan Housing Authority in Manhattan, Kansas has been placed under HUD Monitorship after being formally declared in Substantial Default for failing to comply with the terms of its federally-mandated Recovery Agreement. This action reflects Secretary Scott Turner’s commitment to staunchly enforcing accountability across
- [ABA: ABA Applauds House Passage of Housing for the 21st Century Act](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-house-passage-of-housing-for-the-21st-century-act/) - “ABA applauds the House for passing the Housing for the 21st Century Act, which includes measures that enhance housing opportunities across the country as well as several key provisions to help level the regulatory playing field for community banks. These measures provide regulatory and examination relief for smaller banks, incentivize the formation of new banks
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges Congress to Provide Additional Farm Aid](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-congress-to-provide-additional-farm-aid/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today strongly urged opens in a new tabCongress to quickly pass bipartisan legislation to provide additional financial assistance to farmers and ranchers challenged by high production costs and continuing revenue losses. “We appreciate the administration’s recently announced $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) package for row crops and specialty crops.
- [SBA: Agency Moves to Terminate Over 150 8(a) Firms in Washington, D.C. Following Eligibility Review](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-moves-to-terminate-over-150-8a-firms-in-washington-d-c-following-eligibility-review/) - Firms Received Nearly $1.3 Billion in Federal Contracts During Biden Administration Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) sent a letter to 154 Washington, D.C.-based 8(a) firms initiating termination proceedings after an internal review revealed that the firms failed to meet “economic disadvantage” eligibility requirements in the 8(a) Business Development Program. The firms – which will be suspended
- [HUD: Agency Orders Immediate Citizenship Verification for all Tenants in HUD-Funded Housing Nationwide](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-orders-immediate-citizenship-verification-for-all-tenants-in-hud-funded-housing-nationwide/) - Following a Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) audit into all tenants across HUD-funded housing nationwide, HUD discovered nearly 200,000 tenants requiring eligibility verification, nearly 25,000 deceased tenants, and nearly 6,000 ineligible non-American tenants. HUD announced that all Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) and owners participating in HUD-funded housing
- [HUD: Agency Rescinds Investigation into the Texas General Land Office](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-rescinds-investigation-into-the-texas-general-land-office/) - The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has closed a civil rights investigation into the Texas General Land Office’s (GLO) distribution of disaster mitigation funds. Following a thorough investigation, HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) determined prior allegations, based on a theory of disparate impact, that the Texas GLO engaged in
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Mississippi](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-mississippi-8/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Mississippi to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm on January 23-27, 2026. Federal funding is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Tennessee](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-tennessee-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Tennessee to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm from Jan. 22-27, 2026. Federal funding is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair
- [Treasury: Readout Published from the Financial Literacy and Education Commission 2026 Public Meeting](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-readout-published-from-the-financial-literacy-and-education-commission-2026-public-meeting/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury convened a public meeting of the Financial Literacy and Education Commission (FLEC) focused on implementation and outreach for Trump Accounts. U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent chaired the meeting and delivered opening remarks highlighting the opportunities Trump Accounts create by making every American child a shareholder and
- [FDIC: Comment Period Extended on Proposal to Establish GENIUS Act Application Procedures for FDIC-Supervised Institutions Seeking to Issue Payment Stablecoins](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-comment-period-extended-on-proposal-to-establish-genius-act-application-procedures-for-fdic-supervised-institutions-seeking-to-issue-payment-stablecoins/) - February 6, 2026 The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today announced a 90-day extension to the comment period on the agency’s notice of proposed rulemaking (NPR) that would implement the application provisions under the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act) for FDIC-supervised state nonmember banks and state savings associations seeking
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-120/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in November 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [ABA: Foundation Releases New Ideas to Impact Report Showcasing Innovative Strategies to Strengthen Communities Nationwide](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-releases-new-ideas-to-impact-report-showcasing-innovative-strategies-to-strengthen-communities-nationwide/) - The ABA Foundation today unveiled Ideas to Impact: A Framework for Influencing Banking’s Next Century, a first-of-its-kind report capturing forward-looking ideas from bankers, community leaders and nonprofit partners on how financial institutions can drive meaningful economic and community impact in the decades ahead. Developed as part of the Foundation’s 100th anniversary celebration in 2025, the report
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 29 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-29-national-banks-and-federal-savings-association-released/) - View Post The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of January 1, 2026, through January 31, 2026. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including
- [SBA: Working Capital Pilot Program Delivers $150 Million to Support U.S. Manufacturing](https://www.learncra.com/sba-working-capital-pilot-program-delivers-150-million-to-support-u-s-manufacturing/) - Flexible Credit Line Supports Expansion and Job Creation Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a major milestone for its 7(a) Working Capital Pilot (WCP) Program, which has delivered more than $150 million in new lending since its inception – of which more than $125 million was approved since President Trump took office last January. The success of the
- [CDFI Fund: 2026 Transactional Level Report (TRL) Webinar Schedule Announced](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-2026-transactional-level-report-trl-webinar-schedule-announced/) - The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) will host a monthly Transaction Level Report (TLR) webinar. The TLR webinars are intended to serve as a forum for Certified and non-Certified Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) to ask questions and discuss the TLR and its submission process. The sessions will cover the purpose of the
- [ABA: ABA Applauds the Introduction of the SCAM Act](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-the-introduction-of-the-scam-act/) - “ABA applauds Sens. Gallego and Moreno for their leadership in introducing the Safeguarding Consumers from Advertising Misconduct (SCAM) Act, a critical step forward in the nation's fight against fraud. Millions of Americans lose billions of dollars a year to scams that start on social media platforms. Banks of all sizes invest significant resources to detect
- [ABA: Banking Trades Issue Statement on White House Crypto Market Structure Meeting](https://www.learncra.com/aba-banking-trades-issue-statement-on-white-house-crypto-market-structure-meeting/) - Following today’s meeting at the White House on crypto market structure legislation, the American Bankers Association, Bank Policy Institute, Consumer Bankers Association, Financial Services Forum and Independent Community Bankers of America issued the following joint statement: “We want to thank the administration for hosting today’s constructive conversation and for recognizing the importance of the banking
- [FDIC: First Independence Bank, Detroit, MI, Assumes All Deposits of Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust, Chicago, IL](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-first-independence-bank-detroit-mi-assumes-all-deposits-of-metropolitan-capital-bank-trust-chicago-il/) - Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust was closed today by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver. The FDIC entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with First Independence Bank to assume substantially all deposits of Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust. Metropolitan Capital Bank &
- [FEMA: DHS Leads Historic, Nationwide Response as Winter Storm Slams 12 States at Once](https://www.learncra.com/fema-dhs-leads-historic-nationwide-repsonse-as-winter-storm-slams-12-states-at-once/) - In one of the most expansive and severe winter weather emergencies in recent history, a powerful storm system simultaneously impacted 12 states, triggering rapid federal action to protect American lives, infrastructure and communities. At the direction of President Donald J. Trump, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem led an immediate, coordinated response funneling
- [FEMA: Over $867 Million Approved to Support Disaster Recovery in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-over-867-million-approved-to-support-disaster-recovery-in-arkansas-louisiana-new-mexico-oklahoma-and-texas/) - Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, FEMA recently approved 546 projects worth more than $867 million in funding to support recovery for disasters in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas for Public Assistance projects. These projects include debris removal, emergency protective measures and the repair or replacement of public infrastructure damaged
- [FEMA: $86 Million Approved to Support Disaster Recovery in New Jersey](https://www.learncra.com/fema-86-million-approved-to-support-disaster-recovery-in-new-jersey/) - Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, FEMA recently approved more than $86 million in funding to support recovery for past disasters in New Jersey for Public Assistance projects, which includes debris removal, emergency protective measures and the repair or replacement of public infrastructure damaged by recent disasters. This regional funding is part
- [FEMA: $56 Million Approved to Support Disaster Recovery in New York](https://www.learncra.com/fema-56-million-approved-to-support-disaster-recovery-in-new-york/) - Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, FEMA recently approved nearly $56 million in funding to support recovery for past disasters in New York for Public Assistance projects, which includes emergency protective measures and the repair or replacement of public infrastructure damaged by recent disasters. This regional funding is part of a broader
- [FEMA: $105 Million Approved to Support Disaster Recovery in New England](https://www.learncra.com/fema-105-million-approved-to-support-disaster-recovery-in-new-england/) - Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, FEMA recently approved $105 million in funding to support recovery for past disasters in five Region 1 states for Public Assistance projects, which includes debris removal, emergency protective measures and the repair or replacement of public infrastructure damaged by recent disasters. This regional funding is part
- [FEMA: $19 Million Approved to Support Disaster Recovery in Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia](https://www.learncra.com/fema-19-million-approved-to-support-disaster-recovery-in-pennsylvania-virginia-and-west-virginia/) - Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, FEMA recently approved $19,585,828.05 in funding to support recovery for past disasters in Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia for Public Assistance projects, which includes debris removal, emergency protective measures and the repair or replacement of public infrastructure damaged by recent disasters. This regional funding is part
- [FEMA: $4 Million Approved to Support Indiana Recovery](https://www.learncra.com/fema-4-million-approved-to-support-indiana-recovery/) - Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, FEMA announced today more than $4 million in federal grant funding to support the state of Indiana as it leads community recovery from severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Spring 2025. This funding helps cover road repair, critical infrastructure restoration and other emergency actions taken
- [FEMA: $971 Million Approved to Support Disaster Recovery Across the Southeast](https://www.learncra.com/fema-971-million-approved-to-support-disaster-recovery-across-the-southeast/) - Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, FEMA recently approved over $971 million in funding to support recovery for past disasters in Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee for Public Assistance projects, which includes debris removal, emergency protective measures and the repair or replacement of public infrastructure damaged by recent disasters. This regional
- [FEMA: $62 Million Approved to Support Recovery in Missouri and Kansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-62-million-approved-to-support-recovery-in-missouri-and-kansas/) - Under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, FEMA recently approved more than $62 million in funding to support recovery for past disasters in Missouri and Kansas for Public Assistance projects, which include debris removal, emergency protective measures and the repair or replacement of public infrastructure damaged by disasters. This regional funding is part of a broader effort announced by the Department of
- [Census Bureau: 2024 ACS 5-Year Data Show Large Gains in Educational Attainment in Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Areas](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-2024-acs-5-year-data-show-large-gains-in-educational-attainment-in-metropolitan-and-micropolitan-statistical-areas/) - The percentage of adults age 25 and over with a bachelor’s degree or higher increased significantly in metropolitan statistical areas (metro areas), up from 34.2% during the 2015-2019 period to 37.8% during the 2020-2024 period, according to new American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. “Over the last five years, we’ve
- [SBA: New Regulatory Guidance Issued to Cut California Red Tape and Expedite Los Angeles Wildfire Rebuild](https://www.learncra.com/sba-new-regulatory-guidance-issued-to-cut-california-red-tape-and-expedite-los-angeles-wildfire-rebuild/) - New rule allows builders to self-certify compliance, bypass permitting backlogs, and begin rebuilding Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) published regulatory guidance pursuant to President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order 14277, “Addressing State and Local Failures to Rebuild Los Angeles After Wildfire Disasters,” which will allow builders to self-certify compliance with substantive state and local rebuilding requirements when SBA disaster
- [ICBA: ICBA Strongly Supports Senate Bill to Close Industrial Loan Company Loophole](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-strongly-supports-senate-bill-to-close-industrial-loan-company-loophole/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today expressed its strong support for bipartisan legislation to close the industrial loan company (ILC) loophole, which allows commercial companies to own full-service banks without full regulatory oversight. A loophole in the Bank Holding Company Act allows commercial and fintech companies to own or acquire ILCs chartered in
- [FEMA: More Than $2.2 Billion in Additional Federal Funding Unlocked to Rebuild Communities Hit by Past Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/fema-more-than-2-2-billion-in-additional-federal-funding-unlocked-to-rebuild-communities-hit-by-past-disasters/) - Today, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced more than $2.2 billion in disaster relief funding to support ongoing recovery efforts from a variety of natural disasters. “This investment will repair and restore critical public infrastructure across the country, including schools, public safety facilities, utilities and community services,” said Secretary Noem. “American communities are rebuilding
- [FHFA: House Price Index Up 0.6 Percent in November 2025; Up 1.9 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-up-0-6-percent-in-november-2025-up-1-9-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices rose 0.6 percent in November, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 1.9 percent from November 2024 to November 2025. The previously reported 0.4 percent price change in October remained unchanged. For the nine census divisions, seasonally adjusted monthly home price changes ranged from 0.0 percent in
- [ABA: ABA & 52 State Bankers Associations Urge Congress to Reject Durbin-Marshall Credit Card Mandate](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-52-state-bankers-associations-urge-congress-to-reject-durbin-marshall-credit-card-mandate/) - The American Bankers Association and 52 state bankers associations today expressed strong opposition to the Durbin-Marshall Credit Card Mandate, also known as the Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA), warning in a new joint letter to Congress that the proposal would harm consumers, small businesses and banks of all sizes.In the letter, the associations write that the legislation
- [FEMA: Temporary Housing Assistance Extended for Maui Wildfire Survivors to February 2027](https://www.learncra.com/fema-temporary-housing-assistance-extended-for-maui-wildfire-survivors-to-february-2027/) - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved a one-year extension of its temporary housing assistance for survivors of the 2023 Maui wildfires. FEMA assistance is now extended through February 28, 2027. The initial 18-month period of assistance following the wildfires on August 8, 2023 was set to end on February 10, 2025. In October of 2024, FEMA approved a
- [Census Bureau: New Data Show Fewer Women Gave Birth While Unmarried in the Past Decade](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-data-show-fewer-women-gave-birth-while-unmarried-in-the-past-decade/) - The percentage of women with a recent birth who were unmarried decreased by 4.8 percentage points, from 35.7% (or under 1.5 million) in 2011 to 30.9% (or 1.2 million) in 2023, according to a new U.S. Census Bureau report titled Social and Economic Characteristics of Currently Unmarried Women With a Recent Birth: 2023. In 2023, four
- [Census Bureau: U.S. Population Growth Slows Due to Historic Decline in Net International Migration](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-u-s-population-growth-slows-due-to-historic-decline-in-net-international-migration/) - Population growth in the United States has slowed significantly with an increase of only 1.8 million, or 0.5%, between July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025, according to the new Vintage 2025 population estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. This was the nation’s slowest population growth since the early period of the COVID-19 pandemic, when
- [Census Bureau: 2024 Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates for States, Counties, and School Districts Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-2024-small-area-income-and-poverty-estimates-for-states-counties-and-school-districts-released/) - The median estimated poverty rate of children ages 5 to 17 in U.S. school districts in 2024 was 12.5%, according to data released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. The new data come from the 2024 Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates(SAIPE), which provide the only single-year income and poverty statistics for the nation’s 3,143 counties
- [SBA: Agency Ready to Act on President Trump’s Executive Order to Bypass Bureaucracy and Help California Residents Rebuild One Year After Wildfires](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-ready-to-act-on-president-trumps-executive-order-to-bypass-bureaucracy-and-help-california-residents-rebuild-one-year-after-wildfires/) - Executive action empowers SBA to cut through red tape that has stalled recovery for more than a year Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration(SBA), applauded President Donald J. Trump for signing a new executive order, “Addressing State and Local Failures to Rebuild Los Angeles After Wildfire Disasters,” which encourages the SBA to promulgate new regulations
- [SBA: Over 1,000 8(a) Firms Suspended from Program Following December Document Request](https://www.learncra.com/sba-over-1000-8a-firms-suspended-from-program-following-december-document-request/) - Action is Latest in Sweeping Effort to Dismantle DEI, Expose Fraud, and Restore Integrity to Federal Contracting Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the suspension of 1,091 firms from the 8(a) Business Development Program – representing about 25% of all firms registered to participate in the federal government contracting program. The suspension comes after the
- [SBA: Clarifying Guidance Issued that Race-Based Discrimination Is Not Tolerated in the 8(a) Program](https://www.learncra.com/sba-clarifying-guidance-issued-that-race-based-discrimination-is-not-tolerated-in-the-8a-program/) - Action is Latest in Year-Long Effort to Dismantle DEI Discrimination, Expose Fraud, and Restore Fairness in Federal Contracting Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issued formal guidance to SBA program officials reiterating, in alignment with policy changes implemented by Administrator Kelly Loeffler last year, that race-based discrimination within the 8(a) Business Development Program is unconstitutional and
- [ICBA: FDIC Approval of Ford, GM Industrial Loan Companies Threatens Banking System Stability](https://www.learncra.com/icba-fdic-approval-of-ford-gm-industrial-loan-companies-threatens-banking-system-stability/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today expressed serious concern with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.’s approval of industrial loan company applications from Ford and General Motors, citing the systemic risk the ILC regulatory loophole poses to the banking system by allowing financial institutions to receive federal deposit insurance while avoiding full regulatory oversight.
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for South Carolina](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-south-carolina/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of South Carolina to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on January 21, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Virginia](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-virginia/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Virginia to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on January 22, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the
- [FDIC: Board Approves Final Rule to Amend Official Signs and Advertising Requirements](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-approves-final-rule-to-amend-official-signs-and-advertising-requirements/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved a final rule to amend regulations governing the display of the FDIC official digital sign and non-deposit signage. The rule simplifies requirements for banks’ display of the FDIC official digital sign and non-deposit signage on digital deposit-taking channels, such as bank websites and mobile applications,
- [FDIC: Board of Directors Establishes Office of Supervisory Appeals](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-of-directors-establishes-office-of-supervisory-appeals/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved amendments to the agency’s Guidelines for Appeals of Material Supervisory Determinations. Under the new Guidelines, the FDIC is replacing the existing Supervision Appeals Review Committee (SARC) with the Office of Supervisory Appeals, an independent, standalone office within the FDIC. The Office of Supervisory Appeals
- [FHFA: U.S. Federal Housing Receives ‘Best Result’ from Annual GAO Audit, Publishes Accountability Report Documenting Agency Achievements](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-u-s-federal-housing-receives-best-result-from-annual-gao-audit-publishes-accountability-report-documenting-agency-achievements/) - U.S. Federal Housing’s (Federal Housing Finance Agency’s) annual Performance and Accountability Report published today, showing the Agency’s clean audit results from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO). The report also documents the Agency’s success in securing the safety and soundness and housing affordability mission of Fannie, Freddie, and the Federal Home Loan Banks during fiscal
- [ABA: Banking and Credit Union Groups Urge Congress to Reject Durbin-Marshall Bill](https://www.learncra.com/aba-banking-and-credit-union-groups-urge-congress-to-reject-durbin-marshall-bill/) - The American Bankers Association, America's Credit Unions, Association of Military Banks of America, Bank Policy Institute, Consumer Bankers Association, Defense Credit Union Council, Independent Community Bankers of America, Electronic Payments Coalition, Electronic Transactions Association, Mid-Size Bank Coalition of America and National Bankers Association, today sent a joint letter to members of Congress strongly opposing the so-called Credit
- [ABA: Foundation Highlights Major Financial Education Milestone, Launches 2026 Programs](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-highlights-major-financial-education-milestone-launches-2026-programs/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation today launched its 2026 financial education programs, encouraging banks across the country and their more than two million employees to participate in these industry-wide efforts to strengthen financial capability in communities across America.Alongside the launch of this year’s programs, the ABA Foundation is celebrating a major achievement of exceeding its
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Arkansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-arkansas-2/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Arkansas to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from the severe winter storm beginning on January 23, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Georgia](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-georgia/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Georgia to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on January 22, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for West Virginia](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-west-virginia/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of West Virginia to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on January 23, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Louisiana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-louisiana-2/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Louisiana to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from the severe winter storm beginning on January 23, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Maryland](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-maryland/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Maryland to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on January 23, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for North Carolina](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-north-carolina/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of North Carolina to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on January 21, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Mississippi](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-mississippi-3/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Mississippi to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on January 23, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Indiana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-indiana/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Indiana to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on January 23, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Kentucky](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-kentucky-3/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on January 23, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Tennessee](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-tennessee-3/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Tennessee to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from a severe winter storm beginning on January 22, 2026, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the
- [SBA: 2025 Annual Report Released](https://www.learncra.com/sba-2025-annual-report-released/) - Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) published its 2025 Annual Report, highlighting the historic Year One results of the agency under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. The report documents the SBA’s return to its statutory mission of strengthening small businesses and driving economic growth, and a reversal in course following
- [ABA: New Research Finds that Proposed 10% Credit Card Rate Cap Would Result in Up to 159 Million Americans Losing Access to Credit](https://www.learncra.com/aba-new-research-finds-that-proposed-10-credit-card-rate-cap-would-result-in-up-to-159-million-americans-losing-access-to-credit/) - New data from credit card issuers accounting for roughly 75% of the market shows that a proposed 10% federal credit card interest rate cap would significantly reduce access to credit for millions of consumers nationwide, and even those with good credit scores who pay their bills on time will be affected by the rate cap. The
- [ABA: 2026 Blueprint for Growth Outlines Key Policy Priorities](https://www.learncra.com/aba-2026-blueprint-for-growth-outlines-key-policy-priorities/) - The American Bankers Association today released its 2026 Blueprint for Growth, outlining ABA’s top policy priorities for the year ahead. The Blueprint will shape ABA’s ongoing engagement with Congress and the administration on the most important issues facing banks of all sizes, charters and business models. It was developed by ABA’s Government Relations Council, made up
- [Federal Reserve: Board Withdraws 2023 Policy Statement and Issues New Policy Statement Regarding the Treatment of Certain Board-Supervised Banks that Facilitates Responsible Innovation](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-board-withdraws-2023-policy-statement-and-issues-new-policy-statement-regarding-the-treatment-of-certain-board-supervised-banks-that-facilitates-responsible-innovation/) - The Federal Reserve Board on Wednesday withdrew a 2023 policy statement and issued a new policy statement regarding the treatment of certain Board-supervised banks that facilitates responsible innovation. "New technologies offer efficiencies to banks and improved products and services to bank customers," said Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle W. Bowman. "By creating a pathway for
- [CFPB: FY 2024 Annual Performance Report Issued](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-fy-2024-annual-performance-report-issued/) - This FY 2024 Performance Report is required under the Government Performance and Results Modernization Act of 2010 and represents the work of the prior leadership under former Director Chopra and President Biden. The FY 2024 Annual Performance Report summarizes the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB’s) progress in implementing the strategies and achieving the goals and objectives developed
- [CDFI Fund: 2026 CDFI Certification Monthly Webinar Schedule Announced](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-2026-cdfi-certification-monthly-webinar-schedule-announced/) - The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund’s (CDFI Fund’s) monthly Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Certification webinars are intended to serve as a forum for potential CDFI Certification Applicants, Certified CDFIs, and other CDFI Certification stakeholders to ask questions and discuss CDFI Certification and the CDFI Certification process. The webinars are open to the general public
- [ABA: Bank & Credit Union Trades Issue Joint Statement that Credit Card Mandate Would Harm Consumers and Small Businesses](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-credit-union-trades-issue-joint-statement-that-credit-card-mandate-would-harm-consumers-and-small-businesses/) - The American Bankers Association, America’s Credit Unions, Association of Military Banks of America, Bank Policy Institute, Community Development Bankers Association, Consumer Bankers Association, Defense Credit Union Council, Electronic Payments Coalition, Independent Community Bankers of America and National Bankers Association issued a joint statement after President Trump expressed support for the Durbin-Marshall credit card mandate:“One surefire
- [ICBA: Community Banks, Credit Unions Urge Congress to Reject Durbin-Marshall Credit Card Mandates](https://www.learncra.com/icba-community-banks-credit-unions-urge-congress-to-reject-durbin-marshall-credit-card-mandates/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA), America’s Credit Unions, and Defense Credit Union Council wrote to express strong opposition to Durbin-Marshall credit card mandates, warning the proposal would harm consumers, small businesses, and community financial institutions while delivering a windfall to the nation’s largest retailers. In the letter, the organizations cautioned that the bill
- [HUD: Fair Housing Investigation Launched into Minneapolis' Race-Based Housing Plan](https://www.learncra.com/hud-fair-housing-investigation-launched-into-minneapolis-race-based-housing-plan/) - The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Office for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) notified the City of Minneapolis that it has launched an investigation into the city’s comprehensive racialized housing plans, which HUD believes may violate the Fair Housing Act and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. “Minnesota is
- [HUD: FHA Facilitates Financing for New Hospital in Indian Land, SC](https://www.learncra.com/hud-fha-facilitates-financing-for-new-hospital-in-indian-land-sc/) - $251.2 million FHA-insured supplemental mortgage delivers capital for Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) to offer new access to quality acute care hospital services for residents in Northern Lancaster County, SC. Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Federal Housing Administration (FHA) announced that it has recently closed a transaction to insure a
- [ICBA: 2026-2027 Board Nominees Named to Advance Community Banking Priorities](https://www.learncra.com/icba-2025-2027-board-nominees-named-to-advance-community-banking-priorities/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today announced its 2026-27 board of directors nominees, whose perspective and guidance will chart the course for community banking in the new year. ICBA’s current board will vote on the nominations March 6-9 in San Diego, Calif., during ICBA LIVE 2026—the largest gathering of community banks in the
- [SBA: Growth in Demand for Manufacturing Drives Record Surety Bond Guarantees in FY25](https://www.learncra.com/sba-growth-in-demand-for-manufacturing-drives-record-surety-bond-guarantees-in-fy25/) - SBA Backs Historic $10.6 Billion in Contract Value Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that its Surety Bond Guarantee (SBG) Program delivered record results in fiscal year (FY) 2025 with $10.6 billion in guarantees, marking the strongest year in the program’s history. In FY25, the program supported more than 2,200 small businesses – especially those within the construction,
- [HUD: More Than $4 Million Made Available to Help Communities Eliminate Lead Exposure in Homes](https://www.learncra.com/hud-more-than-4-million-made-available-to-help-communities-eliminate-lead-exposure-in-homes/) - U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner today announced more than $4,400,000 in Lead Hazard Reduction Capacity Building grants are available to communities to help strengthen their capacity to control lead-based paint hazards in privately owned rental and owner-occupied housing. “At HUD, we are focused on expanding affordable housing for hardworking Americans that
- [FDIC: Travis Hill Sworn in as the 23rd Chairman of the FDIC](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-travis-hill-sworn-in-as-the-23rd-chairman-of-the-fdic/) - Travis Hill was sworn in as the 23rd Chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Chairman Hill has served as Acting Chairman of the FDIC Board since January 20, 2025, and previously as Vice Chairman since January 5, 2023. Chairman Hill was nominated by President Trump on September 30, 2025, for a term of five years
- [CFPB: DOJ and CFPB Withdraw Joint Statement on Fair Lending and Credit Opportunities for Noncitizen Borrowers](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-doj-and-cfpb-withdraw-joint-statement-on-fair-lending-and-credit-opportunities-for-noncitizen-borrowers/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Department of Justice (together, the “agencies”) announced today that they have withdrawn a joint statement regarding the implications of a creditor’s consideration of an individual’s immigration status under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA). On October 12, 2023, the agencies published a joint statement cautioning that creditor policies
- [ABA: Community Financial Trade Associations Urge Congress to Close Stablecoin Loophole Threatening Trillions in Local Lending](https://www.learncra.com/aba-community-financial-trade-associations-urge-congress-to-close-stablecoin-loophole-threatening-trillions-in-local-lending/) - A coalition of national trade associations representing thousands of community banks and credit unions today issued a unified call for Congress to take urgent action to prevent what they warn could be a multitrillion dollar disruption to local lending across the United States. In a new joint letter to the U.S. Senate, the CEOs of the American
- [ABA: Banks Respond to Proposed Cap on Credit Card Interest Rates](https://www.learncra.com/aba-banks-respond-to-proposed-cap-on-credit-card-interest-rates/) - The Administration announced plans today to issue an executive order imposing a temporary 10% cap on credit card interest rates. The American Bankers Association, Bank Policy Institute, Consumer Bankers Association, Financial Services Forum and Independent Community Bankers of America issued a joint statement: “We share the President’s goal of helping Americans access more affordable credit.
- [SBA: SBIC Reforms Finalized to Fuel Private Investment in Critical Industries](https://www.learncra.com/sba-sbic-reforms-finalized-to-fuel-private-investment-in-critical-industries/) - Final Rule Removes Red Tape, Incentivizes Investment in American Industrial Dominance Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the publication of a final rule modernizing the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) program to incentivize private capital investment in critical industries and reduce regulations to support the reindustrialization of America. The final rule will take effect February 2, 2026. “Confidence in
- [Census Bureau: Webinar Scheduled for January 22nd on Release of 2020-2024 ACS 5-Year Estimates](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-webinar-scheduled-for-jan-22-on-release-of-2020-2024-acs-5-year-estimates/) - The U.S. Census Bureau is scheduled to hold a prerelease webinar about the 2020-2024 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates on Thursday, Jan. 22, at 1 p.m. ET. The webinar will explain how to access ACS data and give tips on comparing geographies and statistics over time. The ACS provides a wide range of statistics about the nation’s people and housing,
- [Treasury: Immediate Withdrawal of the United States from the Green Climate Fund Announced](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-immediate-withdrawal-of-the-united-states-from-the-green-climate-fund-announced/) - In alignment with the Trump Administration’s decision to withdraw from the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the U.S. Department of the Treasury has notified the Green Climate Fund (GCF) that the United States is withdrawing from the Fund and stepping down from its seat on the GCF Board, effective immediately. “Our nation will
- [ICBA: ICBA Joins House Financial Services Committee in Support of Legislation to Transform Community Bank Regulation](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-joins-house-financial-services-committee-in-support-of-legislation-to-transform-community-bank-regulation/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey today joined a House Financial Services Committee fireside chat at the U.S. Capitol in support of the committee’s new Main Street Capital Access Act opens in a new tab(H.R. 6955). Following Romero Rainey’s testimony opens in a new tablast year at the committee’s first hearing of the
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges Reform to Credit Union Tax Exemption](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-reform-to-credit-union-tax-exemption/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on the year’s first reported acquisition opens in a new tabof a tax-paying community bank by a tax-exempt credit union that has already acquired a community bank. “With tax-exempt credit unions continuing their troubling pace of acquiring tax-paying community banks into
- [CFPB: 2025 Private Education Ombudsman Report on Complaints Released](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-2025-private-education-ombudsman-report-on-complaints-released/) - The 2025 Private Education Loan Ombudsman Annual report analyzes complaints from the prior award year (July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025) and notes an increase in untimely responses to complaints, as well as an increase in complaints referencing fraud or scams. The report’s recommendations include coordinating inter-agency efforts to target frauds and scammers, inter-agency
- [Federal Reserve:  Designation of the Chairs and Deputy Chairs of the 12 Federal Reserve Banks Announced for 2026](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-designation-of-the-chairs-and-deputy-chairs-of-the-12-federal-reserve-banks-announced-for-2026/) - The Federal Reserve Board on Friday announced the designation of the chairs and deputy chairs of the 12 Federal Reserve Banks for 2026. Each Reserve Bank has a nine-member board of directors, representing a wide range of business and community leaders across each regional district. By law, the Board of Governors in Washington appoints three
- [Treasury: Secretary Bessent Announces Launch of New Platform on Working Family Tax Cuts](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-secretary-bessent-announces-launch-of-new-platform-on-working-family-tax-cuts/) - Secretary Scott Bessent today announced the launch of Treasury’s Working Family Tax Cuts: Ushering in a New Golden Age, a platform designed to provide Americans with a clear view into President Trump’s pro-family, pro-worker, and pro-growth economic agenda. “Treasury is opening the books for the American people,” Secretary Bessent said. “Starting with the historic Working Families
- [SBA: On One-Year Anniversary of California Wildfires, SBA Extends Disaster Relief Deadlines](https://www.learncra.com/sba-on-one-year-anniversary-of-california-wildfires-sba-extends-disaster-relief-deadlines/) - Today, on the one-year anniversary of the Los Angeles County wildfires, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced it is once again extending disaster relief deadlines for survivors amid state and local permitting delays that have prevented rebuilding for thousands of residents. This action will allow homeowners and business owners to draw down their approved SBA loan
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 33 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-33-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of December 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [ABA: Community Bank Leaders Urge Senate to Protect Local Lending from Stablecoin Risks](https://www.learncra.com/aba-community-bank-leaders-urge-senate-to-protect-local-lending-from-stablecoin-risks/) - The American Bankers Association’s Community Bankers Council, representing community banks across all 50 states and territories, is urging the U.S. Senate to take decisive action to protect local economies from emerging risks in the digital asset market. In a letter sent to Senators, more than 200 community bank leaders from across the country expressed concern that some crypto companies are exploiting a regulatory loophole, undermining the intent of the GENIUS Act, which
- [CFPB: Agency Issues 2024 Financial Literacy Annual Report](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-agency-issues-2024-financial-literacy-annual-report/) - The 2024 Financial Literacy Annual Report describes the CFPB’s financial literacy activities and strategy to improve the financial literacy of consumers. This year’s report includes information about the need for youth financial education and how the CFPB supports those programs. FULL REPORT Read the full report
- [CFPB: FY 2024 Office of Minority and Women Inclusion Report to Congress Issued](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-fy-2024-office-of-minority-and-women-inclusion-report-to-congress-issued/) - In Section 342 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd- Frank Act), Congress directed the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB or Bureau) to establish an Office of Minority and Women Inclusion (OMWI). Section 342(e) of the Dodd-Frank Act requires the OMWI to submit to Congress an annual report that shall include:
- [CFPB: Annual Report of Consumer and Credit Reporting Complaints Issued](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-annual-report-of-consumer-and-credit-reporting-complaints-issued/) - An analysis of complaint responses by Equifax, Experian, TransUnion Pursuant to Section 611(e)(5) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), this report summarizes information gathered by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) regarding certain consumer complaints transmitted by the CFPB to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. FULL REPORT Read the full report
- [CFPB: Seventh Biennial Review of Consumer Credit Card Market Report Issued](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-seventh-biennial-review-of-consumer-credit-card-market-report-issued/) - This report represents the CFPB’s seventh biennial review of the consumer credit card market as directed by the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009. In this report, we analyze data from several sources to examine many aspects of the consumer credit card market as of the end of 2024. We revisit topics
- [CFPB: 2025 College Credit Card Agreements Report Issued](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-2025-college-credit-card-agreements-report-issued/) - The Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure Act (“CARD Act” or “Act”) requires the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (the “Bureau”) to submit to Congress, and to make available to the public, an annual report that lists information submitted to the Bureau concerning agreements between credit card issuers and institutions of higher education or certain organizations
- [HUD: FHA Fulfilled Core Mission in Fiscal Year 2025](https://www.learncra.com/hud-fha-fulfilled-core-mission-in-fiscal-year-2025/) - Mutual Mortgage Insurance (MMI) Fund Report Highlights Solid Financial Performance, Supporting Homeownership for More Than 876,000 Americans The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Federal Housing Administration (FHA) released its fiscal year (FY) 2025 annual reportcovering the financial status of the FHA Mutual Mortgage Insurance (MMI) Fund and its Single Family mortgage insurance programs. FHA
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-119/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in October 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [Agencies Release Annual Asset-Size Thresholds Under Community Reinvestment Act Regulations](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-release-annual-asset-size-thresholds-under-community-reinvestment-act-regulations-2/) - The Federal Reserve Board and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation today announced the 2026 updated Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) “small bank” and “intermediate small bank” asset-size thresholds. The CRA regulations establish the framework and criteria by which the relevant agencies assess a financial institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including
- [FHFA: House Price Index Up 0.4 Percent in October 2025; Up 1.7 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-up-0-4-percent-in-october-2025-up-1-7-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices rose 0.4 percent in October, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 1.7 percent from October 2024 to October 2025. The previously reported 0.0 percent price change in September was revised downward to a 0.1 percent decline. For the nine census divisions, seasonally adjusted monthly
- [HUD: Financial Report Finds Billions in Potential Payment Errors During 2024](https://www.learncra.com/hud-financial-report-finds-billions-in-potential-payment-errors-during-2024/) - Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner released HUD’s Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Agency Financial Report (AFR) to Congress, which detailed significant misuse of taxpayer funds under the Biden administration including potential payment errors totaling more than $5 billion. For the first time ever, HUD’s Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) used advanced
- [FDIC: Additional Transparency Provided Regarding Marketing and Sale of Failing Financial Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-additional-transparency-provided-regarding-marketing-and-sale-of-failing-financial-institutions/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has enhanced its public website to increase transparency into the marketing and sale process of failing financial institutions and has posted templates of contractual agreements for transactions to facilitate review in advance of any acquisition opportunities. The information can be found in the Resolutions section of the website at Failing Bank Resolutions | FDIC.gov.
- [CFPB: Semi-Annual Report to Congress for Fall 2024 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-semi-annual-report-to-congress-for-fall-2024-issued/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is pleased to present our Semi-Annual Report to Congress for the period beginning April 1, 2024 and ending September 30, 2024, except where otherwise noted. This report also provides the information required by The Truth in Lending Act, the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, and the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kansas-8/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Kansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding from July 17-22, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis
- [FHFA: Final Rule Issued to Establish New Affordable Housing Goals for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-final-rule-issued-to-establish-new-affordable-housing-goals-for-fannie-mae-and-freddie-mac/) - Fannie and Freddie Empowered to Support Middle-Class Homeownership Today U.S. Federal Housing issued a final rule that establishes new, better affordable housing goals for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Thanks to this fix, Fannie and Freddie will continue to fully support mortgages for families from every walk of life. “For too long, Biden distorted the
- [OCC: Two Proposals Issued on Preemption of State Interest-on-Escrow Laws](https://www.learncra.com/occ-two-proposals-issued-on-preemption-of-state-interest-on-escrow-laws/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today requested comment on two proposals on national banks’ and federal savings associations’ real estate lending powers related to the payment of interest on funds held in escrow accounts. The OCC’s actions emphasize federal preemption as a critical tool for reducing unnecessary burden, enabling local and
- [CDFI Fund: Treasury Pairs New Market Tax Credit Awards with Program Reforms](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-treasury-pairs-new-market-tax-credit-awards-with-program-reforms/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) today announced New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) awards to promote U.S. economic growth. Treasury also announced reforms to focus NMTC awards on community revitalization and ensure NMTC awardees’ compliance with federal anti-discrimination laws. The awards announced today are a double round, covering 2024 and 2025. Secretary Scott K.H.
- [ABA: Statement Issued on Treasury Guidance on Penny Phaseout](https://www.learncra.com/aba-statement-issued-on-treasury-guidance-on-penny-phaseout/) - “We appreciate today’s Treasury Department guidance on handling pennies in the banking system. With the administration’s decision to end penny production, a clear path forward is essential to ensuring a smooth transition for American consumers, businesses and the banks that serve them. As we noted in our recent letter to Treasury, maintaining the ability to accept
- [OCC: CRA Bank Asset-Size Threshold Amounts for 2026 Announced](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-asset-size-threshold-amounts-for-2026-announced/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced revisions to the asset-size threshold amounts used to define “small bank or savings association” and “intermediate small bank or savings association” under the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) regulation (12 CFR 25 (March 29, 2024)). The thresholds—which apply to any national bank, federal savings association, or
- [Treasury: New Markets Tax Credit Awards Paired with Program Reforms](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-new-markets-tax-credit-awards-paired-with-program-reforms/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) today announced New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) awards to promote U.S. economic growth. Treasury also announced reforms to focus NMTC awards on community revitalization and ensure NMTC awardees’ compliance with federal anti-discrimination laws. The awards announced today are a double round, covering 2024 and 2025. Secretary Scott K.H.
- [CFPB: Agency Issues Fair Lending Report 2024](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-agency-issues-fair-lending-report-2024/) - This report satisfies three statutorily imposed reporting requirements related to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)’s fair lending program under 12 U.S.C. § 5493(c)(2)(D); 15 U.S.C. § 1691f; and 12 U.S.C. § 2807 and reflects the priorities and work of the CFPB and sister agencies for calendar year 2024. Since that time, the agency’s fair
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Montana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergeny-declaration-for-montana/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Montana to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from severe storms and flooding on December 10, 2025, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency
- [Federal Reserve: Biennial Report on Debit Card Transactions Published, Summarizing Information Collected from Large Debit Card Issuers and Payment Card Networks](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-biennial-report-on-debit-card-transactions-published-summarizing-information-collected-from-large-debit-card-issuers-and-payment-card-networks/) - The Board on Friday published its biennial report on debit card transactions, which summarizes information collected from large debit card issuers and payment card networks. The report, required by law, provides data on interchange fees, issuer costs, and fraud losses related to debit card transactions performed in 2023. Interchange fees are paid by merchants to
- [ABA:  ABA & 52 State Bankers Associations Urge Congress to Close Stablecoin Interest Loophole](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-52-state-bankers-associations-urge-congress-to-close-stablecoin-interest-loophole/) - The American Bankers Association today joined 52 state bankers associations from across the country in sending a joint letter to Congress urging lawmakers to clarify and enforce the statutory prohibition on payment stablecoin issuers and affiliated platforms offering yield, rewards or interest to stablecoin holders — a core provision of the GENIUS Act — because of the
- [Agencies Announce Dollar Thresholds for Smaller Loan Exemption from Appraisal Requirements for Higher-Priced Mortgage Loans](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-announce-dollar-thresholds-for-smaller-loan-exemption-from-appraisal-requirements-for-higher-priced-mortgage-loans-3/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Federal Reserve Board, and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency today announced that the 2026 threshold for higher-priced mortgage loans that are subject to special appraisal requirements will increase from $33,500 to $34,200. The threshold amount will be effective January 1, 2026, and is based on the
- [OCC: Proposed Guidance Issued on CRA Simplified Strategic Plan Process to Reduce Regulatory Burden for Community Banks](https://www.learncra.com/occ-proposed-guidance-issued-on-cra-simplified-strategic-plan-process-to-reduce-regulatory-burden-for-community-banks/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today issued proposed guidance for a simplified strategic plan process for community banks to comply with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The OCC’s action builds on a series of reforms the OCC announced in October and November to reduce burden and tailor examination activities for community banks. “Community banks are
- [Treasury: IRS & Treasury Release Final Rules on the Tribal General Welfare Exclusion Act and Entities Wholly Owned by Indian Tribal Governments](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-irs-treasury-release-final-rules-on-the-tribal-general-welfare-exclusion-act-and-entities-wholly-owned-by-indian-tribal-governments/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced at the meeting of the Treasury Tribal Advisory Committee (TTAC) two final pro-growth and deregulatory tax regulations that support the prosperity of Tribal businesses and families and recognize the sovereignty of Tribal governments. The first rule implements the Tribal General Welfare Exclusion Act
- [ICBA: ICBA Opposes PayPal Application to Form Industrial Loan Company ](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-opposes-paypal-application-to-form-industrial-loan-company/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today expressed strong opposition to PayPal’s application opens in a new tab to form an industrial loan company—a type of financial institution that receives federal deposit insurance while avoiding full regulatory oversight. “The FDIC should deny ILC applications from PayPal and other Big Tech companies and not allow these nonbank firms to benefit from the federal safety net while avoiding prudential regulation
- [ICBA: Analysis Shows Permitting Interest on Payment Stablecoin Holdings Would Reduce Community Bank Lending by $850 Billion](https://www.learncra.com/icba-analysis-shows-permitting-interest-on-payment-stablecoin-holdings-would-reduce-community-bank-lending-by-850-billion/) - As Congress crafts legislation to establish a regulatory framework for digital assets markets, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today released new data showing the harmful impact on local economies of allowing crypto exchanges, affiliates, and other intermediaries to pay interest, yield, or rewards on payment stablecoin holdings. Based on macroeconomic modeling from new industry research, ICBA estimates that continuing to allow crypto intermediaries to pay interest or yield on payment stablecoin holdings would reduce community bank
- [SBA: Deregulation Strike Force Launched to Conduct Government-Wide Review of Regulations Impacting Small Businesses](https://www.learncra.com/sba-deregulation-strike-force-launched-to-conduct-government-wide-review-of-regulations-impacting-small-businesses/) - Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) launched a new Deregulation Strike Force, dedicating a full team to the mission of identifying and eliminating excessive Biden-era regulations that have disproportionately increased costs for America’s small businesses and consumers. The strike force, led by the SBA’s Office of Advocacy, is working across all federal agencies to cut regulations that have
- [FDIC: Board of Directors Approves Final Rule on Establishment and Relocation of Branches and Offices](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-of-directors-approves-final-rule-on-establishment-and-relocation-of-branches-and-offices/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved a final rule to streamline the processes for the establishment and relocation of domestic branches and main offices. The final rule is intended to improve the speed and certainty of, and reduce the regulatory burden associated with, branch and main office filings. The final
- [FDIC: Proposal Approved to Establish GENIUS Act Application Procedures for FDIC-Supervised Institutions Seeking to Issue Payment Stablecoins](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-proposal-approved-to-establish-genius-act-application-procedures-for-fdic-supervised-institutions-seeking-to-issue-payment-stablecoins/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved a notice of proposed rulemaking that would implement the application provisions under the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act). The GENIUS Act allows insured depository institutions to issue payment stablecoins through a subsidiary and to engage in certain related activities. An
- [OCC: Mortgage Performance Report Issued for Third Quarter of 2025](https://www.learncra.com/occ-mortgage-performance-report-issued-for-third-quarter-of-2025/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) reported on the performance of first-lien mortgages in the federal banking system during the third quarter of 2025. The OCC Mortgage Metrics Report, Third Quarter 2025 showed that 97.4 percent of mortgages included in the report were current and performing at the end of the quarter, remaining unchanged
- [Agencies Announce Dollar Thresholds for Applicability of Truth in Lending and Consumer Leasing Rules for Consumer Credit and Lease Transactions](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-announce-dollar-thresholds-for-applicability-of-truth-in-lending-and-consumer-leasing-rules-for-consumer-credit-and-lease-transactions-3/) - The Federal Reserve Board and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau today announced the dollar thresholds used to determine whether certain consumer credit and lease transactions in 2026 are subject to certain protections under Regulation Z (Truth in Lending) and Regulation M (Consumer Leasing). By law, the agencies are required to adjust the thresholds annually based
- [SBA: First MARC Loans Delivered to Support Manufacturers](https://www.learncra.com/sba-first-marc-loans-delivered-to-support-manufacturers/) - $3.5 Million in New Capital will Supercharge Reindustrialization Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced it has approved its first round of 7(a) Manufacturers’ Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) Loans – already delivering $3.5 million in working capital to four manufacturers. The loan program, launched just prior to the federal shutdown, is the first-ever SBA loan offering dedicated
- [ABA: Statement Issued on OCC’s Announcement Regarding National Trust Charters](https://www.learncra.com/aba-statement-issued-on-occs-announcement-regarding-national-trust-charters/) - "Today’s decision by the OCC to approve conditionally a group of novel national trust charters raises important questions about the scope and oversight of these institutions. While innovation in financial services can benefit consumers, it is critical that any chartered entity operates under a regulatory framework that appropriately addresses its activities and risks. We are
- [ICBA: ICBA Opposes OCC's Approval of Five National Trust Charter Applications](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-opposes-occs-approval-of-five-national-trust-charter-applications/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today expressed opposition to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s conditional approval opens in a new tab of five national trust bank charter applications from nonbank fintechs. ICBA has repeatedly said in letters to the OCC that the agency lacks statutory authority to expand trust powers under Interpretive
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for State of Washington](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-state-of-washington/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Washington to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides beginning on December 9, 2025, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering
- [HUD: Fair Housing Investigation Launched into Boston’s Race-Based Housing Plan](https://www.learncra.com/hud-fair-housing-investigation-launched-into-bostons-race-based-housing-plan/) - Today, the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Office for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) notified the City of Boston that it has initiated an investigation into the City’s so-called “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” (DEI) housing practices, which HUD believes violate civil rights protections under the Fair Housing Act and Title VI. “We
- [OCC: Conditional Approvals Announced for Five National Bank Charter Applications](https://www.learncra.com/occ-conditional-approvals-announced-for-five-national-bank-charter-applications/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced its conditional approval of five national trust bank charter applications. Subject to meeting the OCC’s conditions, these institutions will join approximately 60 other national trust banks currently supervised by the OCC. In granting these conditional approvals, the OCC applied the same rigorous review and
- [OCC: Comptroller Issues Statement on Bank Supervision and Regulation at the Financial Stability Oversight Council Meeting](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comptroller-issues-statement-on-bank-supervision-and-regulation-at-the-financial-stability-oversight-council-meeting/) - Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan V. Gould today issued a statement at the Financial Stability Oversight Council meeting about the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s (OCC) work to strengthen its supervision and regulation of banks to better support the U.S. economy. In his statement, Comptroller Gould discussed the OCC’s recent regulatory efforts to
- [CFPB: ANPR Issued to Define Larger Participants of the Automobile Financial Market](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-anpr-issued-to-define-larger-participants-of-the-automobile-financial-market/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is seeking information to assist it in considering whether to propose a rule to amend the test to define larger participants in the automobile financing market established by the Bureau's Defining Larger Participants of the Automobile Financing Market and Defining Certain Automobile Leasing Activity as a Financial Product or
- [CFPB: ANPR Issued to Define Larger Participants of the Consumer Debt Collection Market](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-anpr-issued-to-define-larger-participants-of-the-consumer-debt-collection-market/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is seeking information to assist it in considering whether to propose a rule to amend the test to define larger participants in the consumer debt collection market established by the Bureau’s Defining Larger Participants of the Consumer Debt Collection Market Final Rule published on October 31, 2012 (Consumer Debt
- [CFPB: ANPR Issued to Define Larger Participants of the International Money Transfer Market](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-anpr-issued-to-define-larger-participants-of-the-international-money-transfer-market/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is seeking information to assist it in considering whether to propose a rule to amend the test to define larger participants in the international money transfer market established by the Bureau’s Defining Larger Participants of the International Money Transfer Market Final Rule published on September 9, 2014 (International Money
- [CFPB: Rescission Proposed for Rule Requiring Registry of Nonbank Covered Persons Subject to Certain Agency and Court Orders](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-rescission-proposed-for-rule-requiring-registry-of-nonbank-covered-persons-subject-to-certain-agency-and-court-orders/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is proposing to rescind its rule requiring certain types of nonbank covered persons subject to certain final public orders obtained or issued by a government agency in connection with the offering or provision of a consumer financial product or service to report the existence of the orders and related
- [CFPB: ANPR Issued to Define Larger Participants of the Consumer Reporting Market](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-anpr-issued-to-define-larger-participants-of-the-consumer-reporting-market/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is seeking information to assist it in considering whether to propose a rule to amend the test to define larger participants in the consumer reporting market established by the Bureau’s Defining Larger Participants of the Consumer Reporting Market Final Rule published on July 20, 2012 (Consumer Reporting Larger Participant
- [CDFI Fund: Advisory Board Will Meet Virtually on December 29th](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-advisory-board-will-meet-virtually-on-december-29th/) - The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is convening a public meeting of the Community Development Advisory Board (the Advisory Board) from 11:00 to 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time on Monday, December 29, 2025. This meeting will be conducted virtually. The function of the Advisory Board is to advise the Director of the CDFI Fund on the
- [HUD: FHA Announces 2026 Loan Limits](https://www.learncra.com/hud-fha-announces-2026-loan-limits/) - New loan limits for Single Family Title II forward and Home Equity Conversion Mortgages Increase for calendar year 2026 Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Federal Housing Administration (FHA) announced loan limits for calendar year 2026 for its Single Family Title II forward and Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) mortgage insurance programs. Loan limits for most of the country will
- [Federal Reserve: FRB Announces Reappointment of Reserve Bank Presidents and First Vice Presidents](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-frb-announces-reappointment-of-reserve-bank-presidents-and-first-vice-presidents/) - Following a comprehensive review by the boards of directors of the regional Reserve Banks, and the unanimous concurrence of Federal Reserve Board members, the Federal Reserve on Thursday announced the reappointment of Federal Reserve Bank presidents and first vice presidents. By law, all Reserve Bank presidents and first vice presidents serve five-year terms, with each
- [ICBA: ThinkTECH Accelerator Debuts 10th Cohort to Continue Driving Community Bank Innovation](https://www.learncra.com/icba-thinktech-accelerator-debuts-10th-cohort-to-continue-driving-community-bank-innovation/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) today announced the selected companies for the 10th iteration of its award-winning ICBA ThinkTECH Accelerator program (AP10). The solutions span a broad array of offerings – from responsible AI for compliance to tools that accelerate small business growth, modernize lending, expand investing options, and strengthen fraud defenses –
- [CFPB: Report Issued on the Buy Now, Pay Later Market](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-report-issued-on-the-buy-now-pay-later-market/) - The market for buy now, pay later (BNPL) credit, typically a four-payment loan with no interest used by consumers to make retail purchases, continued to expand between 2019 and 2023. Using data provided by six large BNPL companies, the CFPB examined trends in the BNPL market for calendar years 2019 to 2023. The report includes
- [FHFA: Deemed-Issuance Ratio for 2026 Announced](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-deemed-issuance-ratio-for-2026-announced/) - Ratio changes to 52 Percent Freddie Mac and 48 Percent Fannie Mae U.S. Federal Housing (Federal Housing Finance Agency or FHFA) today announced the deemed-issuance ratio for the 2026 calendar year in accordance with Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidelines on the trading of the Uniform Mortgage-Backed Security (UMBS). The deemed-issuance ratio is used for diversification reporting on the
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Hosts Economic Development Roundtable in Tallahassee, FL Highlighting Disaster Funding Opportunities](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-hosts-economic-development-roundtable-in-tallahassee-fl-highlighting-disaster-funding-opportunities/) - Today, Rob McLeod, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs for the U.S. Department of Commerce, and Ally Bain, Acting Chief of Staff for the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), hosted a roundtable discussion with local officials and economic leaders in Tallahassee to discuss initiatives driving local economic development following natural disasters. This event highlighted EDA’s Disaster Supplemental
- [EDA: U.S. Department of Commerce Hosts Economic Development Roundtable in Columbia, SC Highlighting Disaster Funding Opportunities](https://www.learncra.com/eda-u-s-department-of-commerce-hosts-economic-development-roundtable-in-columbia-sc-highlighting-disaster-funding-opportunities/) - Today, Rob McLeod, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs for the U.S. Department of Commerce, and Ben Page, Deputy Assistant Secretary and Chief Operating Officer at the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), hosted a roundtable discussion with local officials and economic leaders in Columbia to discuss initiatives driving local economic development following natural disasters. This event highlighted
- [OCC: Preliminary Findings Released from OCC Review of Large Banks' Debanking Activities](https://www.learncra.com/occ-preliminary-findings-released-from-occ-review-of-large-banks-debanking-activities/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released preliminary findings from its supervisory review of debanking activities at the nine largest national banks it supervises: JPMorgan Chase Bank, Bank of America, Citibank, Wells Fargo Bank, U.S. Bank, Capital One, PNC Bank, TD Bank, and BMO Bank. The OCC conducted its supervisory review
- [OCC: Agency Confirms Bank Authority to Engage in Riskless Principal Crypto-Asset Transactions](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-confirms-bank-authority-to-engage-in-riskless-principal-crypto-asset-transactions/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today confirmed permissible bank activities related to riskless principal transactions in crypto-assets. The OCC published Interpretive Letter 1188 confirming that a national bank may engage in riskless principal crypto-asset transactions as part of the business of banking. Such transactions involve a bank acting as principal in
- [OCC: Comptroller Gould Discusses De Novo Charters](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comptroller-gould-discusses-de-novo-charters/) - Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan V. Gould today discussed the agency’s activities to reinvigorate the chartering of new banks following the 2008 financial crisis in remarks at the Blockchain Association Policy Summit. In his remarks, Comptroller Gould explained the importance of a robust pipeline of de novo banks to a healthy financial system and the
- [SBA: Record Holiday Spending and Consumer Turnout Underscore Rising Economic Confidence](https://www.learncra.com/sba-record-holiday-spending-and-consumer-turnout-underscore-rising-consumer-confidence/) - Nearly 203 million Americans shopped over the Thanksgiving weekend Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) highlighted record-breaking consumer engagement over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend as strong evidence that confidence in the U.S. economy, which is anchored by small businesses, is returning under President Trump’s pro-growth economic agenda. According to new data released by the National Retail Federation (NRF),
- [ABA: Bank Economists Note That Credit Outlook Improves Amid Continued Softening](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-economist-note-that-credit-outlook-improves-amid-continued-softening/) - While the outlook for credit conditions over the next six months has improved, bank economists expect continued softening in credit quality and availability given the prospect of persistent labor market headwinds, according to the American Bankers Association’s latest Credit Conditions Index released today. ABA’s Credit Conditions Index is a suite of indices derived from the
- [SBA: All 8(a) Program Participants Ordered to Provide Financial Records by January 5th](https://www.learncra.com/sba-all-8a-program-participants-ordered-to-provide-financial-records-by-january-5th/) - Over 4,300 firms required to transmit financial data as part of ongoing effort to expose fraud, waste, and abuse Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issued letters to all contractors within the 8(a) Business Development Program, requiring them to produce financial records as part of a comprehensive effort to protect taxpayers and legitimate small businesses by rooting
- [SBA: Deadline for 2026 National Small Business Week Award Nominations Extended to December 22nd](https://www.learncra.com/sba-deadline-for-2026-national-small-business-week-award-nominations-extended-to-december-22nd/) - Nominations Encouraged for Exceptional Entrepreneurs in Every State Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) extended the 2026 National Small Business Week awards nominations deadline to 2 p.m. ET on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025. National Small Business Week recognizes the contributions of America’s 36 million small businesses – which make up 99% of all businesses in America, create
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-118/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in September 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [Interagency Statement Issued on OCC and FDIC Withdrawal from the Interagency Leveraged Lending Guidance Issuances](https://www.learncra.com/interagency-statement-issued-on-occ-and-fdic-withdrawal-from-the-interagency-leveraged-lending-guidance-issuances/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (collectively “the agencies”) are rescinding the “Interagency Guidance on Leveraged Lending” (“2013 Guidance”), dated March 21, 2013, and the “Frequently Asked Questions for Implementing March 2013 Interagency Guidance on Leveraged Lending” (“2014 FAQs”), dated November 7, 2014. The agencies expect banks
- [ABA: Business Trade Organizations Support Bank Capital Rule Reform to Boost Economic Growth](https://www.learncra.com/aba-business-trade-organizations-support-bank-capital-rule-reform-to-boost-economic-growth/) - Now is the time to modernize our capital framework to unleash economic growth for American businesses and consumers across the country. A coalition of leading business trade organizations urged prudential regulators to examine and modernize large bank capital requirements to ensure they support consumers, businesses, and the U.S. economy. The organizations, which represent a wide
- [SBA: Administrator Loeffler Applauds House Passage of “Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act”](https://www.learncra.com/sba-administrator-loeffler-applauds-house-passage-of-made-in-america-manufacturing-finance-act/) - H.R. 3174 doubles SBA manufacturing loan limits from $5 million to $10 million Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) applauded the U.S. House of Representatives’ bipartisan and unanimous passage of H.R. 3174, the Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act, which will double the SBA’s loan limit from $5 million to $10 million for small manufacturers. The
- [OCC: Comptroller Testifies on Agency Activities](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comptroller-testifies-on-agency-activities/) - Comptroller Jonathan V. Gould today testified on the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s (OCC) activities before the Committee on Financial Services of the U.S. House of Representatives. In his testimony, the Comptroller discussed the OCC’s work to reset its risk tolerance and refocus supervision on material financial risks so banks may better support
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 32 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-32-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of November 1, 2025, through November 30, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [OCC: Comptroller Issues Statement on Congressional Debanking Report](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comptroller-issues-statement-on-congressional-debanking-report/) - Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan V. Gould today issued the following statement on the release of the report titled “Operation Chokepoint 2.0: Biden’s Debanking of Digital Assets,” issued by the U.S. House of Representatives’ Financial Services Committee majority staff. The congressional staff report on the Biden Administration’s coordinated effort to debank digital assets confirms what
- [CDFI Fund: Upcoming Window 3 CDFI Certification Deadline and Service Request Cutoff Announced](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-upcoming-window-3-cdfi-certification-deadline-and-service-request-cutoff-announced/) - In June 2024, the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) released the General Reapplication Submission Deadlines for the CDFI Certification Application for all Certified CDFIs. The third reapplication submission window, Window 3, closes on December 31, 2025. To avoid delays or loss of Certification, organizations must act now to prepare their submissions and resolve outstanding issues. Cut-off
- [FDIC: CRA Examination Schedule for First Quarter 2026 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/15617-2/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued the list of institutions scheduled for a Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) examination during the first quarter 2026. CRA regulations require each federal bank and thrift regulator to publish its quarterly CRA examination schedule at least 30 days before the beginning of each quarter. The Community Reinvestment Act is
- [OCC: CRA Evaluation Schedule for First and Second Quarters 2026 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-evaluation-schedule-for-first-and-second-quarter-2026-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released its schedule of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) evaluations to be conducted in the first and second quarters of 2026. The OCC encourages public comment on the CRA-related activities of the national banks and federal savings associations (collectively, banks) scheduled to be evaluated under the
- [SBA: Agency Encourages Americans to Shop Small on Small Business Saturday®, November 29th](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-encourages-americans-to-shop-small-on-small-business-saturday-november-29th/) - Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is encouraging Americans to support Main Streets across America by “shopping small” ahead of the holiday season on Small Business Saturday, November 29th. As one of the most important economic drivers of the year, Small Business Saturday, created by American Express, has generated over $220 billion* for independent retailers, restaurants, and
- [HUD: Crime Hotline Announced to Keep Americans Safe in HUD-Funded Housing](https://www.learncra.com/hud-crime-hotline-announced-to-keep-americans-safe-in-hud-funded-housing/) - Hotline will address crime in real time, builds on commitment to uphold President Trump’s Executive Orders Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced a hotline for Americans to report crime tips and criminal activity in HUD-funded housing. The hotline will help to rid HUD-funded housing of gang and drug activity, illegal aliens, sex
- [FHFA: Conforming Loan Limit Values for 2026 Announced](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-conforming-loan-limit-values-for-2026-announced/) - Baseline Conforming Loan Limit Value Will Increase to $832,750 U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) today announced the conforming loan limit values (CLLs) for mortgages Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises) will acquire in 2026. In most of the United States, the 2026 CLL value for one-unit properties will be $832,750, an increase of $26,250 from
- [FHFA: U.S. House Prices Rise 2.2 Percent Year Over Year; Up 0.2 Percent Quarter Over Quarter](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-u-s-house-prices-rise-2-2-percent-year-over-year-up-0-2-percent-quarter-over-quarter/) - U.S. house prices rose 2.2 percent between the third quarter of 2024 and the third quarter of 2025, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices for the third quarter of 2025 rose 0.2 percent compared to the second quarter of 2025. FHFA’s seasonally adjusted monthly index for September
- [FHFA: U.S. Federal Housing Announces 2026 Multifamily Loan Purchase Caps for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-us-federal-housing-announces-2026-multifamily-loan-purchase-caps-for-fannie-mae-and-freddie-mac/) - U.S. Federal Housing announced today that the 2026 multifamily loan purchase caps for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises) will be $88 billion for each Enterprise, for a combined total of $176 billion to support the multifamily market. To ensure a strong focus on affordable housing and underserved markets, U.S. Federal Housing will require
- [Agencies Issue Final Rule to Modify Certain Regulatory Capital Standards](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-final-rule-to-modify-certain-regulatory-capital-standards/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today jointly issued a final rule that modifies certain regulatory capital standards to reduce disincentives a banking organization may have to engage in lower-risk activities, such as intermediating in U.S. Treasury markets. The final rule is substantially similar to the proposal issued in June, with changes at the depository institution level. Like
- [Agencies Issue Proposal to Enhance Community Banks' Ability to Serve Their Communities While Maintaining Strong Capital Requirements](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-proposal-to-enhance-community-banks-ability-to-serve-their-communities-while-maintaining-strong-capital-requirements/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today invited public comment on a proposal that would implement changes to the community bank leverage ratio framework in accordance with statutory authority. By incorporating these changes, the revisions would reduce regulatory burden and provide community banks with greater flexibility and optionality in their capital management approach. The proposal reflects
- [OCC: Request for Information Issued on Community Banks' Engagement with Core Service Providers and Other Essential Third-Party Service Providers](https://www.learncra.com/occ-request-for-information-issued-on-community-banks-engagement-with-core-service-providers-and-other-essential-third-party-service-providers/) - Today the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) released a request for information (RFI) on community banks’ engagement with their core service providers and other essential third-party service providers. Note for Community Banks This request for information applies to all banks that may want to comment on the matters in the RFI. Highlights
- [CFPB: Agency's Supervision Division Releases New "Humility Pledge"](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-agencys-supervision-division-releases-new-humility-pledge/) - Today, the CFPB made changes to how the Supervision Division conducts exams. Previously, under the leadership of Director Chopra and Biden’s Director of Supervision Lorelei Salas, a former Soros activist who was put on leave in February 2025, this division was the weaponized arm of the CFPB. Under President Trump and Director Vought’s leadership, that
- [SBA: SBIC Program Delivers Record Capital in FY25](https://www.learncra.com/sba-sbic-program-delivers-record-capital-in-fy25/) - America First agenda fuels surge of investment in nation’s small businesses Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that the Small Business Investment Company(SBIC) program closed Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) with the largest level of investment capital in the program’s history. In total, the SBIC program reached $53 billion in combined private capital and SBA leverage, compared
- [HUD: Disaster Aid & Financial Flexibility Delivered for Alaska Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-alaska-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the State of Alaska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected October 8-13, 2025 by severe storms, flooding, and remnants of Typhoon Halong. “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods, and
- [HUD: Agency Supports Homeownership and Housing Affordability for More Than One Million Americans](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-supports-homeownership-and-housing-affordability-for-more-than-one-million-americans/) - Includes 560,000 first-time American homebuyers Secretary Scott Turner announces the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provided a pathway for homeownership and supported housing affordability for more than one million Americans this year through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae). “President Trump’s bold leadership is empowering
- [Federal Reserve: College Fed Challenge Winners Announced](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-college-fed-challenge-winners-announced-3/) - Pace University won the 22nd Annual National College Fed Challenge. Pace University won the 22nd annual national College Fed Challenge on Friday, a team competition that encourages undergraduate students to learn about the U.S. economy, monetary policymaking, and the role of the Federal Reserve System. Teams analyze economic and financial conditions and formulate a monetary policy recommendation,
- [ABA: National Survey Finds Majority of U.S. Consumers Think Congress Should Hold Credit Unions Accountable Regarding Tax-Exempt Status and Benefits](https://www.learncra.com/aba-national-survey-finds-majority-of-u-s-consumers-think-congress-should-hold-credit-unions-accountable-regarding-tax-exempt-status-and-benefits/) - With 20 years having passed since Congress last held a hearing to conduct oversight of the federal tax exemption that credit unions receive, a new survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Bankers Association finds that a wide majority of U.S. consumers (67%) believe that Congress should reexamine the tax-exempt status of federal
- [HUD: Secretary Scott Turner Visits Atlanta to Witness How Opportunity Zones Are Spurring Growth, Expanding Housing Affordability](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-scott-turner-visits-atlanta-to-witness-how-opportunity-zones-are-spurring-growth-expanding-housing-affordability/) - U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner visited Centennial Yards in Atlanta, an expansive 50-acre mixed use development located within one of the city’s Opportunity Zones. Secretary Turner and stakeholders toured the site, including several new residential and commercial properties under construction, and met with key partners to discuss how the project is
- [Federal Reserve: Board Releases Information Regarding Enhancements to Bank Supervision](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-board-releases-information-regarding-enhancements-to-bank-supervision/) - The Federal Reserve Board on Tuesday released information regarding enhancements to bank supervision. The new supervisory operating principles were provided to all Federal Reserve supervisory leadership and staff and are intended to focus Federal Reserve examiners on material financial risks threatening the safety and soundness of banks and on taking timely, proportionate action to ensure
- [OCC: Agency Confirms Bank Authority to Hold Certain Crypto-Assets as Principal for Purposes of Paying Crypto-Asset Network Fees](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-confirms-bank-authority-to-hold-certain-crypto-assets-as-principal-for-purposes-of-paying-crypto-asset-network-fees/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today confirmed permissible bank activities related to paying crypto-asset network fees. The OCC published Interpretive Letter 1186 confirming that a national bank may pay network fees, sometimes referred to as “gas fees,” on blockchain networks to facilitate otherwise permissible activities and hold, as principal, amounts of
- [ABA: National Survey Finds Bank Customers Continue to Use Mobile Apps More Than Any Other Channel to Manage Their Accounts](https://www.learncra.com/aba-national-survey-finds-bank-customers-continue-to-use-mobile-apps-more-than-any-other-channel-to-manage-their-accounts/) - Results also show 95% of Americans think highly of their bank’s digital banking experience For the sixth year in a row, U.S. consumers are conducting their banking via mobile apps more than any other method, according to a new survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Bankers Association. The national survey found
- [CFPB: Small Business Lending Data Collection Proposed Rule Issued to Revise Section 1071 Requirements](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-small-business-lending-data-collection-to-revise-section-1071-requirements-issued/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB or Bureau) proposes revisions to certain provisions of Regulation B, subpart B, implementing changes to the Equal Credit Opportunity Act made by section 1071 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. The Bureau is reconsidering coverage of certain credit transactions and financial institutions; the small business
- [HUD: Secretary Scott Turner Leads Monumental Reforms to Homlessness Program](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-scott-turner-leads-monumental-efforts-to-homlessness-program/) - HUD, HHS, and White House Faith Office Execute on President Trump’s Executive Order “Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets” U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced $3.9 billion in competitive grant funding through HUD’s FY 2025 Continuum of Care (CoC) Competition Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). This announcement, with
- [Federal Bank Regulatory Agencies Release 2024 Small Business, Small Farm, and Community Development Lending Data](https://www.learncra.com/federal-bank-regulatory-agencies-release-2024-small-business-small-farm-and-community-development-lending-data/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies, as members of the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC), today released data on small business, small farm, and community development lending during 2024. The Community Reinvestment Act regulations require the agencies to annually disclose these data. The FFIEC also prepared aggregate reports of small business and small farm lending
- [SBA: Shutdown Blocks SBA from Delivering $5 Billion to Small Businesses](https://www.learncra.com/sba-shutdown-blocks-sba-from-delivering-5-billion-to-small-businesses/) - 10,000 Small Businesses Lost Access to SBA-Guaranteed Capital During Funding Lapse Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the cumulative impact of the federal shutdown on its small business lending programs. For fiscal year 2025 (FY25), the agency guaranteed a record 84,400 7(a) and 504 loans, delivering $45 billion to Main Street thanks to a historic demand for
- [HUD: Treasury and HUD Build on First Lady Melania Trump's Fostering the Future Initiative for Foster Youth](https://www.learncra.com/hud-treasury-and-hud-build-on-first-lady-melania-trumps-fostering-the-future-initiative-for-foster-youth/) - Agencies Commit to Equipping Foster Youth with Strong Financial Literacy Foundation In accordance with President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order (EO) on “Fostering the Future for American Children and Families,” First Lady Melania Trump today announced the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Treasury (Treasury) will hold roundtables with foster
- [HUD: Secretary Scott Turner's Statement on End of the Government Shutdown](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-scott-turners-statement-on-end-of-the-government-shutdown/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner released the following statement after Democrats in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate joined with Republicans to reopen the government. This marks the end of the Left’s shutdown – the longest in U.S. history. “I’m relieved the Left has finally
- [SBA: Agency Clears VetCert Program Backlog to Put Veteran Entrepreneurs First](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-clears-vetcert-program-backlog-to-put-veteran-entrepreneurs-first/) - Agency Restores Statutory Staffing and Funding to Support Veteran Contracting Opportunities Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that the agency has cleared the Biden-era backlog of Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) applications, which accumulated after the prior Administration diverted all resources away from VetCert to increase certification approvals for “socially disadvantaged” small businesses within the 8(a) Business Development
- [CFPB: Agency Notifies Court it Cannot Lawfully Draw Funds from the Federal Reserve](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-agency-notifies-court-it-cannot-lawfully-draw-funds-from-the-federal-reserve/) - Today, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) filed a notice informing the court in NTEU v. Vought that the Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) has determined that the Bureau may not legally request funds at this time from the Federal Reserve under Dodd-Frank. OLC made this conclusion on the basis that the Federal Reserve
- [ABA: Ag Lenders Signal Cautious Outlook for Farm Profitability in 2025](https://www.learncra.com/aba-ag-lenders-signal-cautious-outlook-for-farm-profitability-in-2025/) - ABA, Farmer Mac survey results released at ABA Agricultural Bankers Conference in St. Louis Agricultural lenders report signs of tighter conditions in farm profitability and credit quality in 2025, according to a joint survey conducted by the American Bankers Association and the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation, or Farmer Mac (NYSE: AGM and AGM.A). The survey—based on responses
- [ICBA: New ICBA White Paper Calls on Policymakers to Close Industrial Loan Company Loophole](https://www.learncra.com/icba-new-icba-white-paper-calls-on-policymakers-to-close-industrial-loan-company-loophole/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today released a comprehensive white paper detailing why policymakers should close a legal loophole that allows industrial loan companies and their parent companies to skirt regulatory oversight, endangering consumers and the economy. In “Closing the Industrial Loan Company Loophole: An Urgent Priority to Prevent Systemic Risk and Consumer Harm,” ICBA
- [ICBA: Statement on CFPB’s New Proposal to Implement Section 1071 Small-Business Reporting Requirements](https://www.learncra.com/icba-statement-on-cfpbs-new-proposal-to-implement-section-1071-small-business-reporting-requirements/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on today’s updated Consumer Financial Protection Bureau proposed rule to implement Section 1071 small-business reporting requirements. “ICBA and the nation’s community bankers commend the administration for making needed improvements to the CFPB’s 1071 rule to help mitigate the negative impact of
- [ABA: Statement on CFPB's Section 1071 Reproposal](https://www.learncra.com/aba-statement-on-cfpbs-section-1071-reproposal/) - “We applaud the CFPB for addressing serious flaws in its previous Section 1071 rulemaking, which exceeded the Bureau’s legal authority and constrained banks’ ability to make small business loans that are so essential to economic growth. This is one of many recent regulatory reforms advanced by the CFPB that will unleash America’s banks, allowing them
- [FDIC: Updates to the Consumer Compliance Examination Schedule Issued, Extending Compliance and CRA Exam Cycles](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-updates-to-the-consumer-compliance-examination-schedule-issued-extending-compliance-and-cra-exam-cycles/) - The FDIC’s Consumer Compliance Examination Manual has been revised to reflect an updated examination frequency schedule whereby consumer compliance examinations and Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) evaluations will occur less frequently for most institutions. Statement of Applicability: The contents of, and material referenced in, this FIL apply to all FDIC-supervised financial institutions. Highlights: Section II-12.1 of the
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 16 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-16-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released-2/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of October 1, 2025, through October 31, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges OCC to Deny Coinbase's Application for a National Bank Charter](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-occ-to-deny-coinbases-application-for-a-national-bank-charter/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) urged the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) to reject Coinbase’s application for a national trust bank charter for its subsidiary, Coinbase National Trust Co. (CNTC). In a letter to the OCC, ICBA outlined serious concerns with the application, stating it failed to meet requirements of the National
- [SBA: Over $6 Billion in Assistance Delivered to Disaster Survivors in FY25](https://www.learncra.com/sba-over-6-billion-in-assistance-delivered-to-disaster-survivors-in-fy25/) - Agency’s rapid, reliable support for disaster recovery aided 51,000 Americans and is now available to impacted Alaskans Today, on the heels of her latest disaster visit to the state of Alaska, U.S. Small Business Administration(SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler announced that the agency closed Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) with $6 billion in assistance delivered to disaster survivors. Under the
- [SBA: National Veterans Small Business Week Canceled Due to Federal Shutdown](https://www.learncra.com/sba-national-veterans-small-business-week-canceled-due-to-federal-shutdown/) - Celebration Honoring America’s Heroes Canceled After Senate Democrats Block Clean Funding Bill Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that the agency’s 12th annual National Veterans Small Business Week (NVSBW) celebration, originally scheduled for November 3-7, 2025, has been canceled due to the ongoing federal shutdown. The week-long recognition, which would have honored America’s 1.6 million veteran-owned small
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-117/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in August 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting
- [ABA: Banks Submit Recommendations on Treasury’s Implementation of the GENIUS Act](https://www.learncra.com/aba-banks-submit-recommendations-on-treasurys-implementation-of-the-genius-act/) - The American Bankers Association, Bank Policy Institute, Consumer Bankers Association, Financial Services Forum and The Clearing House Association responded late yesterday to a U.S. Department of the Treasury Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on its implementation of the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act (GENIUS) Act. The submission asks Treasury to develop regulations that
- [ABA: ABA and 52 State Banking Associations Urge Treasury to Uphold GENIUS Act’s Ban on Stablecoin Interest](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-and-52-state-banking-associations-urge-treasury-to-uphold-genius-acts-ban-on-stablecoin-interest/) - The American Bankers Association joined 52 state bankers associations from across the country in submitting a letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury today urging strong implementation of the GENIUS Act’s prohibition on interest for payment stablecoins. The letter, which responds to Treasury’s advance notice of proposed rulemaking regarding implementation of the GENIUS Act, emphasizes the
- [HUD: Secretary Turner Provides Update on HUD Programs Amid Government Shutdown](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-provides-update-on-hud-programs-amid-government-shutdown/) - Provides status of critical HUD programs that support seniors, healthcare access, and housing supply, including billions in community development projects halted U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner delivered an update to the American people on the status of vital HUD programs during the Left’s shutdown: “For nearly one month, the
- [FHFA: House Price Index Up 0.4 Percent in August 2025; Up 2.3 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-up-0-4-percent-in-august-2025-up-2-3-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices rose 0.4 percent in August, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 2.3 percent from August 2024 to August 2025. The previously reported 0.1 percent price decline in July was revised to 0.0 percent. For the nine census divisions, seasonally adjusted
- [OCC: Comments Requested on Proposed Rescission of Its Recovery Planning Guidelines](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comments-requested-on-proposed-rescission-of-its-recovery-planning-guidelines/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today requested comment on a proposal to rescind its recovery planning guidelines for certain large insured national banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches (banks). Under the proposal, the recovery planning guidelines that went into effect January 1, 2025, and applied to banks with at least
- [ABA: Business Associations Issue Statement on Government Shutdown](https://www.learncra.com/aba-business-associations-issue-statement-on-government-shutdown/) - Today, a broad cross-section of business associations issued the following statement: “Government shutdowns impose real, escalating costs. While exact figures vary, public estimates of the current funding lapse suggest $10 billion–$15 billion per week in lost output and economic activity. The longer the shutdown persists, the larger and more durable the economic damage becomes —
- [ABA: Statement Issued on Court Ruling to Halt Compliance and Enforcement of CFPB Data Sharing Rule](https://www.learncra.com/aba-statement-issued-on-court-ruling-to-halt-compliance-and-enforcement-of-cfpb-data-sharing-rule/) - "The U.S. District Court’s decision to stay compliance with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Section 1033 rule affirms the serious concerns raised by ABA and other stakeholders regarding the rule’s legal foundation, scope and impact on consumer privacy and data security. The court’s decision provides a necessary pause for the Bureau to engage meaningfully with
- [ABA: ABA Commends FCC on Proposals to Strengthen Fraud Protections and Modernize Calling Rules](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-commends-fcc-on-proposals-to-strengthen-fraud-protections-and-modernize-calling-rules/) - “We commend Chairman Carr and the FCC for taking this important step forward in the fight against fraud. It is too easy for fraudsters to spoof real bank names on Caller ID, and today's FCC vote advancing a proposal to strengthen the call authentication framework will help protect consumers and legitimate businesses. We look forward
- [FEMA: Over $1 Billion in Federal Funding Announced to Secure the FIFA World Cup Games and Protect Americans](https://www.learncra.com/fema-over-1-billion-in-federal-funding-announced-to-secure-the-fifa-world-cup-games-and-protect-americans/) - FEMA Issues FY 2026 Funding Opportunities for FIFA World Cup and Counter Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Grant Programs Today, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) published the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Notices of Funding Opportunity for the Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) Grant Program and the FIFA World Cup Grant Program. Through the FIFA World Cup
- [ICBA: Statement on Ending Goverment Shutdown Issued](https://www.learncra.com/icba-statement-on-ending-goverment-shutdown-issued/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) issued the following statement on the federal government shutdown. “While the nation’s community banks continue working every day to support economic growth in the local communities they serve, the ongoing government shutdown threatens to harm economic growth and Main Street economies. ICBA and the nation’s community bankers encourage
- [Agencies Announce Withdrawal of Principles for Climate-Related Financial Risk Management](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-announce-withdrawal-of-principles-for-cimate-related-financial-risk-management/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today announced the withdrawal of interagency Principles for Climate-Related Financial Risk Management for Large Financial Institutions. The agencies do not believe principles for managing climate-related financial risk are necessary because the agencies’ existing safety and soundness standards require all supervised institutions to have effective risk management commensurate with their size,
- [ABA: Officers and Board Elected for 2025-2026](https://www.learncra.com/aba-officers-and-board-elected-for-2025-2026/) - Members attending the American Bankers Association’s annual convention in Charlotte, N.C. have elected new ABA officers and directors to serve on ABA’s board for the 2025-2026 association year. The new officers are: CHAIR: Kenneth Kelly, chairman and CEO, First Independence Bank, Detroit; CHAIR-ELECT: Catherine Owen, executive chair, Eagle Bank & Trust Company, and chair and CEO, State
- [ABA: First Independence Bank Chairman and CEO Kenneth Kelly Elected as New ABA Chair](https://www.learncra.com/aba-first-independence-bank-chairman-and-ceo-kenneth-kelly-elected-as-new-aba-chair/) - The American Bankers Association today announced the election of Kenneth Kelly as its chair for the 2025-2026 association year at ABA’s annual convention held in Charlotte, N.C.. Kelly is chairman and CEO of First Independence Bank in Detroit, Michigan, one of the nation’s largest minority depository institutions. Since Kelly assumed leadership at First Independence Bank
- [ABA: New National Survey Finds US Consumers Rank Banks Above Other Industries for Fraud Protection, Support Consistent Rules for Data Sharing](https://www.learncra.com/aba-new-national-survey-finds-us-consumers-rank-banks-above-other-industries-for-fraud-protection-support-consistent-rules-for-data-sharing/) - Poll also finds consumers are happy with their bank U.S. adults overwhelmingly trust banks more than any other entity to protect them from fraud, according to a new survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Bankers Association. By more than a 6-to-1 margin over the next closest industry, consumers chose banks (50%)
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Alaska](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-alaska-5/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Alaska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, flooding and remnants of Typhoon Halong during the period of Oct. 8-13, 2025. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the Lower Kuskokwim Regional Educational Attendance Area,
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Nebraska](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-nebraska-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Nebraska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding from August 8-10, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for North Dakota](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-north-dakota-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of North Dakota to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes from Aug. 7-8, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-leech-lake-band-of-ojibwe/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to Members of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and straight-line winds on June 21, 2025. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals and families of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. Assistance can include
- [SBA: State-Level Analysis Released of Shutdown Impact on Small Business Lending](https://www.learncra.com/sba-state-level-analysis-released-of-shutdown-impact-on-small-business-lending/) - With Core Lending Programs Frozen, Agency is Unable to Deliver $170 Million to 320 Main Street Businesses Each Day Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration released a state-level analysis of how small businesses have been impacted by the federal shutdown, which has frozen the agency’s core 7(a) and 504 small business lending programs. For fiscal year 2025
- [Federal Reserve: Governor Barr Delivers Speech on "Supporting Investment in Communities: The First 25 Years of the New Markets Tax Credit"](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-governor-barr-delivers-speech-on-supporting-investment-in-communities-the-first-25-years-of-the-new-markets-tax-credit/) - Speech delivered by Governor Michael S. Barr at the 2025 Fall New Markets Tax Credit Conference, New Orleans, Louisiana Thank you for asking me to be part of this celebration of 25 years of the New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) and also the historic achievement of its permanent extension.1 I consider the credit a great achievement
- [ABA: ABA Calls on CFPB to Suspend Data Sharing Rule Compliance Dates and Undertake Major Revisions](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-calls-on-cfpb-to-suspend-data-sharing-rule-compliance-dates-and-undertake-major-revisions/) - The American Bankers Association today submitted a detailed comment letter in response to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding the reconsideration of the Personal Financial Data Rights rule under Section 1033 of the Dodd-Frank Act. In the letter, ABA commends the CFPB’s leadership for recognizing the need to revise the November 2024
- [ABA: New Survey Finds Americans Highly Value Their Credits Cards, Oppose Policy Changes that Threaten Card Reward Programs](https://www.learncra.com/aba-new-survey-finds-americans-highly-value-their-credits-cards-oppose-policy-changes-that-threaten-card-reward-programs/) - A new survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Bankers Association found that a strong majority of U.S. consumers are happy with their credit cards and do not want the government to interfere with their cards’ rewards programs. The survey, unveiled on the second day of ABA’s 2025 Annual Convention in Charlotte, N.C., also
- [ABA: Next Generation of Bank Leaders Recognized with 2025 Emerging Leader Awards](https://www.learncra.com/aba-next-generation-of-bank-leaders-with-2025-emerging-leader-awards-recognized/) - The American Bankers Association today announced the 2025 recipients of its annual ABA Emerging Leader Awards, which recognize the next generation of bank leaders who are committed to the highest standards of achievement and service to both their industry and their local communities. “This year’s ABA Emerging Leaders are driven professionals whose innovation and strong leadership
- [SBA: Disaster Relief Deadlines Extended for Los Angeles Wildfire Survivors](https://www.learncra.com/sba-disaster-relief-deadlines-extended-for-los-angeles-wildfire-survivors/) - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today that it has extended the disbursement period for Los Angeles County wildfire survivors with approved SBA disaster loans. This action provides a full twelve months for homeowners and business owners to draw down their approved SBA loan funds, including Home and Business Physical Disaster Loans. The extension was approved due
- [ABA: Foundation Announces 2025 Community Commitment Award Winners](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-announces-2025-community-commitment-award-winners/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation today announced the recipients of its 2025 ABA Foundation Community Commitment Awards. The prestigious annual awards recognize banks for extraordinary service to their local communities in seven specific categories ranging from affordable housing to serving military families. The winners will be recognized at ABA’s Annual Convention in Charlotte, N.C. on Oct. 21. The
- [ABA: Foundation Honors Montana Banker Jennell Huff with George Bailey Distinguished Service Award](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-honors-montana-banker-jennell-huff-with-george-bailey-distinguished-service-award/) - he American Bankers Association Foundation today announced that Jennell Huff, CRA/community outreach coordinator at Bank of the Rockies in Clyde Park, Montana has been awarded the 2025 George Bailey Distinguished Service Award. This national award recognizes a non-CEO bank employee who demonstrates outstanding service to their community. Huff will be honored at ABA’s Annual Convention in Charlotte,
- [FHFA: US Federal Housing Requests Input on New Strategic Plan](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-us-federal-housing-requests-input-on-new-strategic-plan/) - Consistent with its statutory requirements and President Trump’s executive orders, U.S. Federal Housing is asking the public for feedback on its proposed Strategic Plan for FY 2026–2030. The new Plan proposes three strategic goals for the Agency: Responsibly Oversee Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac for the American People; Supervise the Federal Home Loan Bank System;
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges Policymakers to Continue to Support Local Communities Served by Community Development Financial Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-policymakers-to-continue-to-support-local-communities-served-by-community-development-financial-institutions/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on actions to dismantle the Community Development Financial Institution Fund. “ICBA is concerned about the economic impact eliminating the CDFI Fund would have on the local communities that CDFIs serve. Hampering the work of CDFIs would threaten the financial
- [ICBA: ICBA Supports Bill to Strengthen Deposit Insurance While Minimizing Costs to Community Banks](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-supports-bill-to-strengthen-deposit-insurance-while-minimizing-costs-to-community-banks/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) expressed support for legislation to strengthen the nation’s deposit insurance system while minimizing additional costs for community banks. Introduced by Sens. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), the Main Street Depositor Protection Act would provide expanded deposit insurance coverage of up to $10 million per depositor for noninterest-bearing transaction
- [Agencies Issue Proposal to Focus Supervision on Material Financial Risks](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-proposal-to-focus-supervision-on-material-financial-risks/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the agencies) today issued a joint notice of proposed rulemaking that would continue their effort to focus supervision on material financial risks. Among other things, the proposal would define the term “unsafe or unsound practice” for purposes of section 8 of the
- [Agencies Issue Proposal to Prohibit Use of Reputation Risk by Regulators in Supervisory Programs](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-proposal-to-prohibit-use-of-reputation-risk-by-regulators-in-supervisory-programs/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (the agencies) today issued a joint notice of proposed rulemaking that would codify the elimination of reputation risk from their supervisory programs. The proposed rule would define “reputation risk” and prohibit the agencies from criticizing or taking adverse action against an
- [OCC: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Issued to Simplify Community Bank Licensing Amendments](https://www.learncra.com/occ-notice-of-proposed-rulemaking-issued-to-simplify-community-bank-licensing-amendments/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) is proposing to amend its regulations to simplify licensing requirements for corporate activities and transactions involving national banks and federal savings associations that have less than $30 billion in total assets and satisfy certain conditions. The proposed rule is intended to reduce burden on these institutions.
- [OCC: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Issued to Rescind 12 CFR 27 Fair Housing Home Loan Data System](https://www.learncra.com/occ-notice-of-proposed-rulemaking-issued-to-rescind-12-cfr-27-fair-housing-home-loan-data-system/) - On October 6, 2025, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) issued a notice of proposed rulemaking to rescind 12 CFR 27, "Fair Housing Home Loan Data System." In connection with the OCC's ongoing efforts to tailor bank supervision and regulation to bank risk profile, the OCC has reviewed 12 CFR 27 (part
- [OCC: Actions Announced to Reduce Regulatory Burden for Community Banks](https://www.learncra.com/occ-actions-announced-to-reduce-regulatory-burden-for-community-banks/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced guidance to banks and proposed rulemakings to reduce regulatory burden for community banks. These actions build upon the OCC’s continued efforts to tailor its regulatory and supervisory frameworks to minimize burden for its regulated institutions and promote economic growth. “Community banks have an outsized
- [ABA: ABA Foundation and FICO Announce New Partnership Ahead of 2025 Get Smart About Credit Day](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-foundation-and-fico-announce-new-partnership-ahead-of-2025-get-smart-about-credit-day/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation, in partnership with analytics software leader FICO and bankers across the country, will celebrate the 2025 Get Smart About Credit Day next week on Thursday, Oct. 16. Get Smart About Credit, now in its 23rd year, is a year-round campaign that kicks off annually on the third Thursday of October.
- [FHFA: House Price Index® Down 0.1 Percent in July 2025; Up 2.3 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-down-0-1-percent-in-july-up-2-3-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices fell 0.1 percent in July, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 2.3 percent from July 2024 to July 2025. The previously reported 0.2 percent price decline in June remained unchanged. For the nine census divisions, seasonally adjusted monthly home price changes ranged from -1.2 percent in
- [CDFI Fund: First Awards for 2025 Announced to 56 Organizations Across US Who Will Receive Nearly $8.8 Million](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-first-awards-for-2025-announced-to-56-organizations-across-us-who-will-nearly-receive-8-8-million/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) announced that 56 organizations across the country will collectively receive nearly $8.8 million in Technical Assistance (TA) Awards under the fiscal year (FY) 2025 funding round. These awards reflect Treasury’s commitment to ensuring taxpayer dollars are used effectively and advancing economic
- [SBA: Agency Delivers Record Capital to Small Businesses in FY25](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-delivers-record-capital-to-small-businesses-in-fy25/) - America First agenda boosts small business optimism and growth Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that it will close Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 with the most capital ever delivered to small businesses thanks to a surge in demand and confidence under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump. In total, the agency has guaranteed 84,400
- [SBA: 12th Annual National Veterans Small Business Week Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-12th-annual-national-veterans-small-business-week-announced/) - Veteran Entrepreneurs to be Recognized November 3rd-7th, 2025 Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that it will celebrate the 12th consecutive year of National Veterans Small Business Week (NVSBW) from Nov. 3–7, 2025. The week honors America’s 1.6 million veteran-owned small businesses and the commitment to excellence, quality, and strength that defines veteran entrepreneurship across all sectors,
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-116/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in July 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for Six National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-six-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of September 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [CDFI Fund: Operating Status During Federal Government Shutdown Released](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-operating-status-during-federal-government-shutdown-released/) - For the duration of the federal government shutdown, limited Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) staff and services will be available as described below. Access to the CDFI Fund’s Awards Management Information System (AMIS), the CDFI Information Mapping System (CIMS), and the CDFI Fund website will be available during the federal government shutdown. Updates to
- [ABA: Dan Rollins, CEO of Cadence Bank, Named 2025-2026 Chair of ABA’s American Bankers Council](https://www.learncra.com/aba-dan-rollins-ceo-of-cadence-bank-named-2025-2026-chair-of-abas-american-bankers-council/) - The American Bankers Association today announced that James D. “Dan” Rollins III has been named chair of ABA’s American Bankers Council for the 2025–2026 membership year. Rollins is chairman and CEO of Cadence Bank (NYSE: CADE), a nearly 150-year old institution with $55 billion in assets and more than 390 locations spanning the South and Texas. “Dan
- [ABA: America’s Banks and ABA Relaunch #BanksNeverAskThat and #PracticeSafeChecks Campaigns to Help Consumers Spot Scams](https://www.learncra.com/aba-americas-banks-and-aba-relaunch-banksneveraskthat-and-practicesafechecks-campaigns-to-help-consumers-spot-scams/) - The American Bankers Association today announced the 2025 relaunch of its award-winning consumer protection campaigns, #BanksNeverAskThat and #PracticeSafeChecks, aimed at helping consumers and small businesses recognize and avoid fraud and scams. Banks of all sizes across the nation will join ABA in promoting and amplifying the consumer protection tips included in the two campaigns. To date, more than
- [ABA: California Banker Elected as Chair of ABA's Community Bankers Council](https://www.learncra.com/aba-california-banker-elected-as-chair-of-abas-community-bankers-council/) - The American Bankers Association has elected Jon Sisk as chair of ABA’s Community Bankers Council for the 2025-2026 association year. Sisk is executive vice president and chief banking officer of West Coast Community Bank. “Jon Sisk brings a deep understanding of community banking and a strong commitment to industry leadership,” said Rob Nichols, ABA president
- [ABA: Trailblazers in Agricultural Banking Honored with Bruning and Blanchfield Awards](https://www.learncra.com/aba-trailblazers-in-agricultural-banking-honored-with-bruning-and-blanchfield-awards/) - Recipients will be recognized for their leadership and contributions to ag lending at the 2025 ABA Agricultural Bankers Conference The American Bankers Association today announced the recipients of its highly regarded Bruning and Blanchfield Awards, the association's premier awards presented annually for significant contributions to agricultural banking. ABA will honor Kathy Daily, managing director of
- [EDA: US Department of Commerce Invests $15.8 Million in First Awards for Fiscal Year 2025 Disaster Supplemental Funding to Support Economic Recovery in 11 States and Territories](https://www.learncra.com/eda-us-department-of-commerce-invests-15-8-million-in-first-awards-for-fiscal-year-2025-disaster-supplemental-funding-to-support-economic-recovery-in-11-states-and-territories/) - Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding $15.8 million in Fiscal Year 2025 Disaster Supplemental funding. These awards will support economic recovery efforts in several states that received major disaster declarations in 2023 and 2024, due to storms and other weather-related events. These awards are the
- [HUD and Census Bureau: New Residential Sales Report Issued for August 2025](https://www.learncra.com/hud-and-census-bureau-new-residential-sales-report-issued-for-august-2025/) - The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development jointly announced the following new residential sales statistics for August 2025: New Home SalesSales of new single-family houses in August 2025 were at a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 800,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau and the
- [White House: Office of Federal Procurement Policy and SBA Reinforce Small Business Participation in Federal Contracting](https://www.learncra.com/white-house-office-of-federal-procurement-policy-and-sba-reinforce-small-business-participation-in-federal-contracting/) - Today, the Office of Management and Budget’s Office of Federal Procurement Policy and other members of the FAR Council, in close consultation with the Small Business Administration (SBA), released streamlined regulatory coverage on small business contracting. Small businesses are the cornerstone of the U.S. economy. The nation’s 34 million small businesses now account for well
- [ABA: ABA and State Bankers Associations Express Support for FDIC Indexing Proposal, Offer Recommendations in Joint Comment Letter](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-and-state-bankers-associations-express-support-for-fdic-indexing-proposal-offer-recommendations-in-joint-comment-letter/) - Today, ABA joined 52 state bankers associations from across the country in filing a joint comment letteron the FDIC’s proposal to begin indexing certain regulatory thresholds, applauding the FDIC’s effort to develop a sound and transparent framework while recommending methodological changes to ensure that indexing mechanisms are appropriately tailored to the nature and purpose of each
- [ABA: Bank Economists See Slower Growth and Persistent Inflation](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-economists-see-slower-growth-and-persistent-inflation/) - The American Bankers Association’s Economic Advisory Committee expects continued slow U.S. economic growth for the remainder of 2025 and a modest pickup in 2026. The group’s latest forecast released today indicates inflation will remain stubbornly high and above the Federal Reserve’s 2% inflation target.The committee, composed of 16 chief economists from some of North America’s
- [FHFA: U.S. Federal Housing Completes Withdrawal from International “Greening the Financial System” Network](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-u-s-federal-housing-completes-withdrawal-from-international-greening-the-financial-system-network/) - U.S. Federal Housing has formalized its withdrawal from the Network of Central Banks and Supervisors for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) in a letter to the Chair of NGFS. “Biden drove housing costs up with politicized nonsense that prioritized climate activists over American families,” said U.S. Federal Housing Director William J. Pulte. “Consistent with President
- [OCC: Mortgage Performance Report for Second Quarter 2025 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-mortgage-performance-report-for-second-quarter-2025-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) reported on the performance of first-lien mortgages in the federal banking system during the second quarter of 2025. The OCC Mortgage Metrics Report, Second Quarter 2025 showed that 97.5 percent of mortgages included in the report were current and performing at the end of the quarter, an increase
- [ABA: Bank Economists Expect Credit Conditions to Face Continued Challenges over Next Six Months](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-economists-expect-credit-conditions-to-face-continued-challenges-over-next-six-months/) - Credit conditions are expected to soften over the next six months as the labor market weakens and inflation persists, according to the American Bankers Association’s latest Credit Conditions Index released today.ABA’s Credit Conditions Index is a suite of indices derived from the quarterly outlook for credit markets produced by ABA’s Economic Advisory Committee (EAC). The
- [Treasury: Readout and Recording from the Financial Literacy and Education Commission September 2025 Public Meeting on Payment Fraud Now Available](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-readout-and-recording-from-the-financial-literacy-and-education-commission-september-2025-public-meeting-on-payment-fraud-now-available/) - Yesterday, the U.S. Department of the Treasury hosted a convening of the Financial Literacy and Education Commission (FLEC) focused on federal efforts to combat payment fraud and implement Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account, which mandates the transition to the use of electronic payments for federal disbursements and receipts beginning on
- [Treasury: IRS and Treasury Issue Proposed Regulations Around "No Tax on Tips" Deduction](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-irs-and-treasury-issue-proposed-regulations-around-no-tax-on-tips-deduction/) - Today, the Treasury Department and IRS issued proposed regulations identifying the occupations that customarily and regularly received tips before 2025, and therefore may be eligible for the deduction. The proposed regulations also address the definition of “qualified tips” and other requirements taxpayers must comply with to claim the deduction. “I took my first job as
- [Treasury: Major Progress in IT Modernization Initiatives Announced](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-major-progress-in-it-modernization-initiatives-announced/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury today announced significant progress across its IT modernization agenda within the IRS, underscoring its commitment to improving taxpayer services, enhancing cybersecurity, strengthening compliance, and filing season operations. To enable delivery of these objectives, Treasury has entered into a series of Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) with leading technology providers. All commercial
- [SBA: $1.1 Million Awarded to Support Made in America Manufacturing](https://www.learncra.com/sba-1-1-million-awarded-to-support-made-in-america-manufacturing/) - E2G Grants will fund training for small manufacturers in critical industries Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced it has awarded $1.1 million in grants to three applicant organizations who will provide training and technical assistance to support small manufacturers in the SBA’s Empower to Grow (E2G) Program. These qualified awardees will deliver regional support to small manufacturers in critical
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for North Carolina](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-north-carolina-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of North Carolina to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Tropical Depression Chantal on July 6-7, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kansas-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Kansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from June 3-7, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for North Dakota](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-north-dakota-5/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of North Dakota to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storm, tornadoes and straight-line winds on June 20-21, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, Tribal Nations and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-the-sisseton-wahpeton-oyate/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm and flooding from June 12-16, 2025. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals and families in the Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate of the Lake Traverse Reservation. Assistance can include grants for
- [Treasury: Public Comments Sought on Implementation of the GENIUS Act](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-public-comments-sought-on-implementation-of-the-genius-act/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM), seeking public comment related to Treasury’s implementation of the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act. The GENIUS Act tasks Treasury with issuing regulations that encourage innovation in payment stablecoins while also providing an appropriately tailored regime
- [SBA: Loan Fees Waived for Small Manufacturers in Fiscal Year 2026](https://www.learncra.com/sba-loan-fees-waived-for-small-manufacturers-in-fiscal-year-2026/) - One-Year Waiver Incentivizes Return to Industrial Dominance Today, in support of the Trump Administration’s broader effort to rebuild American industrial dominance, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that it would waive most upfront fees for small manufacturers in fiscal year 2026. With the fee burden reduced, the SBA will empower more small manufacturers (NAICS 31-33) with
- [HUD: Secretary Turner Hosts Tribal Intergovernmental Advisory Committee and Announces National Tribal Housing Summit](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-hosts-tribal-intergovernmental-advisory-committee-and-announces-national-tribal-housing-summit/) - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner recently hosted HUD's Tribal Intergovernmental Advisory Committee (TIAC) meeting at HUD’s headquarters. The convening included Tribal leaders from across the nation who make up HUD’s TIAC. “Since day one, I have stated my commitment to make Tribal communities a priority here at HUD.
- [FDIC: Results of 2025 Summary of Deposits Annual Survey Released](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-results-of-2025-summary-of-deposits-annual-survey-released/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today released results of its annual survey of branch office deposits for all FDIC-insured institutions as of June 30, 2025. The FDIC’s Summary of Deposits (SOD) provides deposit totals for each of the more than 76,000 domestic offices operated by more than 4,400 FDIC-insured commercial and savings banks, savings associations, and U.S.
- [OCC: Agency Announces Updates to Organizational Structure](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-announces-updates-to-organizational-structure/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced a new organizational framework for bank supervision and updates to the structure of its Office of the Chief National Bank Examiner. Effective October 1, three distinct lines of business will replace the Bank Supervision and Examination group: Large and Global Financial Institutions, Regional and
- [CDFI Fund: Extension Requests Now Accepted for the CDFI Certification Reapplication Window 2 Submission Deadline of September 30, 2025](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-extension-requests-now-accepted-for-the-cdfi-certification-reapplication-window-2-submission-deadline-of-september-30-2025/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) is now allowing currently Certified Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) who have not yet submitted their revised CDFI Certification Application (released December 2023) to submit an extension request for the upcoming September 30, 2025, CDFI Certification Application submission deadline. On June 20,
- [ABA: ABA Testifies Before House Subcommittee on Escalating Fraud Threats](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-testifies-before-house-subcommittee-on-escalating-fraud-threats/) - Today, Paul Benda, executive vice president of risk, fraud and cybersecurity at the American Bankers Association, will testify before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations during a hearing focused on fraud and the threat it poses to American families. In his prepared testimony, Benda highlighted the alarming rise in financial fraud targeting American
- [ABA: Officers & Board Nominated for 2025-2026](https://www.learncra.com/aba-officers-board-nominated-for-2025-2026/) - The American Bankers Association’s Nominating Committee has finalized the official slate of candidates to be presented for election at the association’s annual meeting scheduled for Oct. 21 in Charlotte, N.C. The committee, chaired by Julieann M. Thurlow, president and CEO, Reading Cooperative Bank, Reading, Mass., nominated these candidates for ABA officer positions: CHAIR: Kenneth Kelly,
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Wisconsin](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-wisconsin-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Wisconsin to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding and mudslides from Aug. 9-12, 2025. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Milwaukee, Washington and Waukesha counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges FDIC to Reject Applications Under Industrial Loan Company Loophole to Prevent Risks to Consumers](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-fdic-to-reject-applications-under-industrial-loan-company-loophole-to-prevent-risks-to-consumers/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today told the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) that it has a statutory duty to reject the applications of industrial loan companies (ILCs) that pose undue risks to the Deposit Insurance Fund and that fail to serve the convenience and needs of their communities. In a comment letter responding to
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Crow Tribe of Montana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-the-crow-tribe-of-montana/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Crow Tribe of Montana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding from May 18-22, 2025. Public assistance federal funding is available to the Crow Tribe of Montana and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for
- [FDIC: Enforcement Actions Manual Updated Regarding Minimum Standards for Termination of Cease-and-Desist and Consent Orders](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-enforcement-actions-manual-updated-regarding-minimum-standards-for-termination-of-cease-and-desist-and-consent-orders/) - The FDIC has updated chapter four of its Formal and Informal Enforcement Actions Manual (manual), entitled Cease-and-Desist Actions, regarding the agency’s minimum standards for terminating cease-and-desist and consent orders issued under Section 8(b) of the Federal Deposit Insurance (FDI) Act. The manual provides direction for professional staff related to the work necessary to pursue formal and informal enforcement actions.
- [Census Bureau: The Cost of Homeownership Continues to Rise](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-the-cost-of-homeownership-continues-to-rise/) - The median monthly owner costs for U.S. homeowners with a mortgage increased to $2,035 in 2024 from $1,960 (inflation-adjusted) in 2023, according to new American Community Survey (ACS) 1-year estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. “One way we measure housing affordability is based on how much households spend on selected costs such as mortgage payments, insurance, taxes,
- [ICBA: New Analysis Shows Sharp Decreases in Small Business and Mortgge Lending Following Credit Union Acquisitions of Community Banks](https://www.learncra.com/icba-new-analysis-shows-sharp-decreases-in-small-business-and-mortgge-lending-follower-credit-union-acquisitions-of-community-banks/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today released the results of a new data analysis demonstrating that the growth of tax-exempt credit unions acquiring tax-paying community banks is harming small businesses and local communities while community banks outperform credit unions in high-poverty areas. In a new blog post, ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey details ICBA’s
- [CDFI Fund: Acceptance of Community Development Entity (CDE) Certification Applications Resumes](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-acceptance-of-community-development-entity-cde-certification-applications-resumes/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) will resume acceptance of new Applications for certification as a Community Development Entity (CDE) effective September 9, 2025. The temporary “blackout” period, originally announced on May 5, 2025, was implemented to allow the CDFI Fund to assess and implement updates to the CDE Certification
- [CDFI Fund: Preview Released of CIMS5 Test Site and Training Resources](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-preview-released-of-cims5-test-site-and-training-resources/) - As the CDFI Fund prepares for the October 6, 2025, launch of the new version of the CDFI Information Mapping System (CIMS5), users are now invited to explore a test version of the system and preview its updated features. The new version of CIMS, accessed through Awards Management Information System (AMIS), will continue to allow organizations
- [ABA: ABA Testifies Before Congress on Strengthening Bank Resilience and Modernizing Regulation](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-testifies-before-congress-on-strengthening-bank-resilience-and-modernizing-regulation/) - Hugh Carney, executive vice president for financial institutions policy and regulatory affairs at the American Bankers Association, will testify today before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Financial Institutions during a hearing titled “Promoting the Health of the Banking Sector: Reforming Resolution and Broadening Funding Access for Long-Term Resilience.” In his prepared testimony, Carney outlined four key policy
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges Congress to Ensure Deposit Insurance Reforms Enhance Small Business Coverage, Curb Favorable Too-Big-To-Fail Treatment](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-congress-to-ensure-deposit-insurance-reforms-enhance-small-business-coverage-curb-favorable-too-big-to-fail-treatment/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today called on Congress to consider deposit insurance reforms that enhance coverage for small businesses, address the more favorable regulatory treatment the nation’s largest banks receive under the current framework, and ensure community banks are not penalized. In a statement for the record for today’s Senate Banking Committee hearing on
- [Census Bureau: Income, Poverty and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States 2024 Data Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-income-poverty-and-health-insurance-coverage-in-the-united-states-2024-data-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today announced that real median household income was $83,730 in 2024, not statistically different from the 2023 estimate of $82,690. The official poverty rate fell 0.4 percentage points to 10.6% in 2024. The following 2024 findings were all not statistically different from 2023. The Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM) rate in 2024
- [Agencies Announce Third Public Outreach Meeting As Part of Their Review of Regulations Including CRA](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-announce-third-public-outreach-meeting-as-part-of-their-review-of-regulations-including-cra/) - Federal bank regulatory agencies will hold a hybrid public outreach meeting on October 30, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri, as part of their review of regulations. The Economic Growth and Regulatory Paperwork Reduction Act (EGRPRA) requires the agencies, with input from the public, to review their regulations at least once every 10 years to identify
- [OCC: Agency Elevates Bank Chartering Function; Names Stephen Lybarger as Senior Deputy Comptroller for Chartering, Organization and Structure](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-elevates-bank-chartering-function-names-stephen-lybarger-as-senior-deputy-comptroller-for-chartering-organization-and-structure/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced the elevation and renaming of its chartering and licensing function and the appointment of Stephen Lybarger as Senior Deputy Comptroller for Chartering, Organization and Structure. “The business of banking is innovating at a rapid pace. Elevating the OCC’s chartering and licensing activities to be
- [ABA: ABA Testifies at Senate Banking Committee Hearing on Deposit Insurance Reform](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-testifies-at-senate-banking-committee-hearing-on-deposit-insurance-reform/) - Today, Kenneth Kelly, chairman and CEO of Detroit-based First Independence Bank and chair-elect of the American Bankers Association, will testify on behalf of ABA at a hearing of the Senate Banking Committee exploring perspectives on deposit insurance reform. In his testimony, Kelly outlined ABA’s perspective on how the deposit insurance system “could be modernized to reflect
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds Signing of Law to Restrict Mortgage "Trigger Leads"](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-signing-of-law-to-restrict-mortgage-trigger-leads/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today applauded President Trump for signing into law the bipartisan Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act (H.R. 2808), which will help protect the financial privacy of mortgage applicants. Introduced by Reps. John Rose (R-Tenn.) and Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.) and Sens. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) and Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), the Homebuyers Privacy
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-115/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in June 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations Released for 11 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-released-for-11-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of August 1, 2025, through August 31, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [ABA: Foundation Encourages Banks to Host "Lights, Camera, Save!" Teen Video Contest](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-encourages-banks-to-host-lights-camera-save-teen-video-contest/) - Teens compete for awards worth as much as $10,000 in this national competition sponsored by Visa The American Bankers Association Foundation is urging banks across the country to participate in its upcoming 15th annual Lights, Camera, Save! video competition that runs from Oct.1 to Nov. 30. Lights, Camera, Save! is a national contest that encourages teens to
- [ICBA: 2025 National Community Bank Service Award Recipients Honored for Efforts to Create Resilient Communities](https://www.learncra.com/icba-2025-national-community-bank-service-award-recipients-honored-for-efforts-to-create-resilient-communities/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today announced the winners of its 2025 National Community Bank Service Awards, recognizing the innovative and exceptional efforts of the nation’s community banks to support and uplift local communities. Stories are featured in the September issue of ICBA's Independent Banker magazine. “ICBA is proud to recognize our 2025 National
- [Census Bureau: New 2024 Educational Attainment Data Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-2024-educational-attainment-data-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released the Educational Attainment in the United States: 2024 table package examining the education level of adults age 18 and older by age, sex, race, nativity and other demographic and social characteristics. Data are based on statistics from the Current Population Survey Annual Social and Economic Supplement. Highlights Age In 2024, 42.8% of
- [SBA: First-Ever Loan Program Dedicated to American Manufacturers Launched](https://www.learncra.com/sba-first-ever-loan-program-dedicated-to-american-manufacturers-launched/) - MARC Loans Will Expand Access to Credit Lines that Create Jobs, Onshore Production, and Support the Return of Industrial Dominance Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) launched its first-ever loan program dedicated to supporting America’s small manufacturers, which make up 98% of all U.S. manufacturers. The 7(a) Manufacturer’s Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) Loan Program will offer working capital
- [ABA: Foundation and FBI Release New Infographic to Help Americans Spot and Avoid Deepfake Scams](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-and-fbi-release-new-infographic-to-help-americans-spot-and-avoid-deepfake-scams/) - As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, so do the tactics of scammers who exploit this technology to deceive and defraud consumers. Today, the American Bankers Association Foundation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation released a new infographic aimed at educating the public about the growing threat of deepfake scams. The infographic highlights how AI-generated or manipulated
- [HUD and Census Bureau: New Residential Sales Report Issued for July 2025](https://www.learncra.com/hud-and-census-bureau-new-residential-sales-report-issued-for-july-2025/) - The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development jointly announced the following new residential sales statistics for July 2025: New Home SalesSales of new single-family houses in July 2025 were at a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 652,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau and the
- [FHFA: U.S. Federal Housing Allows Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to Approve Rocket Acquisition of Mr. Cooper](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-us-federal-housing-allows-fannie-ame-and-freddie-mac-to-approve-rocket-acquisition-of-mr-copper/) - Approval Must Adhere to Safety and Soundness Guardrails Today U.S. Federal Housing, in keeping with its statutory responsibilities as conservator of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises), allowed both Enterprises to approve Rocket Companies’ proposed acquisition of Mr. Cooper Group, subject to appropriate conditions to ensure the ongoing safety and soundness of Fannie Mae
- [CDFI Fund: CDFI Certification Application General Q&A Webinar Scheduled for September 4th](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-cdfi-certification-application-general-qa-webinar-scheduled-for-september-4th/) - Reminder: Next CDFI Certification Webinar is September 4th The CDFI Fund’s monthly Certification webinars, which are intended to serve as a forum for potential CDFI Certification Applicants, Certified CDFIs, and other CDFI Certification stakeholders to ask questions and discuss CDFI Certification and the CDFI Certification process, have been scheduled for calendar year 2025. The webinars
- [HUD: Exhibitors Unveiled for the 2025 Innovation Housing Showcase on the National Mall](https://www.learncra.com/hud-exhibitors-unveiled-for-the-2025-innovation-housing-showcase-on-the-national-mall/) - Showcase Returns on September 6th-10th to Celebrate 250 Years of the American Home The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced more than 25 exhibitors that will showcase innovative housing and construction technologies on the National Mall during HUD’s annual Innovative Housing Showcase, taking place September 6th-10th. “HUD is proud to champion public-private partnerships
- [FDIC: CRA Examination Schedule for Fourth Quarter 2025 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-cra-examination-schedule-for-fourth-quarter-2025-issued/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued the list of institutions scheduled for a Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) examination during the fourth quarter 2025. CRA regulations require each federal bank and thrift regulator to publish its quarterly CRA examination schedule at least 30 days before the beginning of each quarter. The Community Reinvestment Act is
- [FHFA: U.S. House Prices Rise 2.9 Percent Year Over Year; Unchanged Quarter Over Quarter](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-us-house-prices-rise-2-9-percent-year-over-year-unchanged-quarter-over-quarter/) - U.S. house prices rose 2.9 percent between the second quarter of 2024 and the second quarter of 2025, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices for the second quarter of 2025 remained unchanged compared to the first quarter of 2025. FHFA’s seasonally adjusted monthly index for June was down 0.2 percent from
- [SBA: Letter Issued to Lending Network Instructing Them to End Practice of Debanking](https://www.learncra.com/sba-letter-issues-to-lending-network-instructing-them-to-end-practice-of-debanking/) - Agency Takes Decisive Action to Enforce President’s Directive to Stop Financial Discrimination Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) sent a letter to its network of over 5,000 lenders instructing them to end politicized or unlawful banking practices. Pursuant to Executive Order 14331, “Guaranteeing Fair Banking for All Americans,” SBA is requiring all lenders to stop the practice
- [Census Bureau: National 2024 Income, Poverty and Health Insurance Coverage Statistics Scheduled for Release](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-national-2024-income-poverty-and-health-insurance-coverage-statistics-scheduled-for-release/) - The U.S. Census Bureau will announce the findings of three reports estimating income, poverty and health insurance coverage in the United States at an online news conference next month. The reports – Income in the United States: 2024, Poverty in the United States: 2024, and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2024 – provide national statistics
- [OCC: Fourth Quarter 2025 and First Quarter 2026 CRA Evaluation Schedule Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-fourth-quarter-2025-and-first-quarter-2026-cra-evaluation-schedule-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released its schedule of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) evaluations to be conducted in the fourth quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026. The OCC encourages public comment on the CRA-related activities of the national banks and federal savings associations (collectively, banks) scheduled to
- [CDFI Fund: Certification Webinar Recording on Target Market Requirements Released](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-certification-webinar-recording-on-target-market-requirements-released/) - Last week, the Community Development Financial Institution Fund’s (CDFI Fund) Office of Certification Policy and Evaluation (OCPE) hosted a webinar focused Target Market Requirements on August 21st. The webinar recordings and presentation slides are now available on the CDFI Fund’s website. The Target Market webinar began with an overview of the different types of Target
- [ICBA: Statement Issued on the CFPB's Proposed Rule to Implement Section 1033 Standards on Sharing Consumer Financial Data](https://www.learncra.com/icba-statement-issues-on-the-cfpbs-proposed-rule-to-implement-section-1033-standards-on-sharing-consumer-financial-data/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on today’s Consumer Financial Protection Bureau proposed rule to implement Section 1033 of the Dodd-Frank Act. “As the CFPB considers a new proposed rule to implement Section 1033 standards on sharing consumer financial data, ICBA and the nation’s community
- [SBA: Disaster Relief Offered to New York Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by Severe Storms and Flooding](https://www.learncra.com/sba-disaster-relief-offered-to-new-york-businesses-private-nonprofits-and-residents-affected-by-severe-storms-and-flooding/) - Low interest disaster loans now available The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans for New York businesses, private nonprofits, and residents affected by the severe storms and flooding occurring June 22, 2025. The SBA issued a disaster declaration in response to a request received from Gov. Kathy
- [CFPB: Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on Personal Financial Data Rights Rule Issued](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-advanced-notice-of-proposed-rulemaking-on-personal-financial-data-rights-rule-issued/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is seeking comments and data to inform its consideration of four issues related to implementation of section 1033 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act). These issues are: the proper understanding of who can serve as a “representative” making a request on behalf of
- [Treasury:  Request for Comment Related to the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins (GENIUS) Act Issued](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-request-for-comment-related-to-the-guiding-and-establishing-national-innovation-for-u-s-stablecoins-genius-act/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued a Request for Comment required by the GENIUS Act, which furthers the Administration’s policy of supporting the responsible growth and use of digital assets, as outlined in Executive Order (E.O.) 14178 on “Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology.” Today’s request for comment fulfills Treasury’s obligation pursuant to section 9(a) of
- [CDFI Fund: CDFI Fund to Resume Acceptance of Community Development Entity Certification Applications on September 9th](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-cdfi-fund-to-resume-acceptance-of-community-development-entity-certification-applications-on-september-9th/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) will resume acceptance of new applications for Certification as a Community Development Entity (CDE) effective September 9, 2025. The temporary “blackout” period, originally announced on May 5, 2025, provided an opportunity for the CDFI Fund to assess the resources available on its website. While
- [FEMA: DHS Awards $110 Million to Help Protect Houses of Worship and Nonprofit Organizations](https://www.learncra.com/fema-dhs-awards-110-million-to-help-protect-houses-of-worship-and-nonprofit-organizations/) - Funding to be Distributed to Faith-based Institutions to Harden Their Defenses Against Terrorist Attacks. Today, the Department of Homeland Security announced it is awarding $110 million to more than 600 faith-based organizations and other nonprofits across the United States. In the face of violent criminals and radical organizations intent on hurting American communities, the Trump-Vance
- [Census Bureau: Webinar Scheduled for September 4th on 2024 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-webinar-scheduled-for-september-4th-on-2024-american-community-survey-1-year-estimates/) - The U.S. Census Bureau is scheduled to hold a prerelease webinar about the 2024 American Community Survey (ACS) 1-year estimates set to be publicly released Sept. 11, 2025. The webinar will explain how to access data and resources from the ACS, and provide tips for comparing geographies and statistics over time. The ACS provides a wide range of statistics about the
- [HUD: Sponsors for the 2025 Innovation Housing Showcase Announced](https://www.learncra.com/hud-sponsors-for-the-2025-innovation-housing-showcase-announced/) - The Historic Showcase Returns to the National Mall September 6th - 10th Highlighting 250 Years of Innovation in American Housing Today the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced the presenting sponsors for the 2025 Innovative Housing Showcase: The International Code Council (ICC), The Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI), The Structural Building Components Association (SBCA), and The Home Depot.
- [HUD: Regional Administrator Quinonez Issues Opinion Piece on HUD's Support for Foster Youth in Texas](https://www.learncra.com/hud-regional-administrator-quinonez-issues-opinion-piece-on-huds-support-for-foster-youth-in-texas/) - HUD Celebrates the Sixth Anniversary of the Foster Youth to Independence Initiative U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Southwest Regional Administrator Ashlea Quinonez penned an opinion piece discussing the continued impact of HUD’s investment in youth transitioning out of foster care in Texas. This year marks the sixth anniversary of HUD’s Foster Youth
- [FDIC: Board Approves Proposal to Amend Official Signs and Advertising Requirements](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-approves-proposal-to-amend-official-signs-and-advertising-requirements/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved a proposed rule to amend regulations governing the display of the FDIC official digital sign and non-deposit signage. The proposal would simplify requirements for banks’ display of the FDIC official digital sign and non-deposit signage on digital deposit-taking channels, such as bank websites and
- [ABA: Bank Trade Associations Respond to Financial Technology Association Letter that Seeks to Mislead Trump Administration about Open Banking](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-trade-associations-respond-to-financial-technology-association-letter-that-seeks-to-mislead-trump-administration-about-open-banking/) - The Financial Technology Association teamed up with an interesting mix of data aggregators and fintech companies to issue a letter to the President today urging the Administration to undermine free markets and engage in government price fixing. The American Bankers Association, the Bank Policy Institute and Consumer Bankers Association issued this response: Banks don’t charge consumers
- [Treasury: Federal Goverment Will Phase Out Paper Checks on September 30th](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-federal-goverment-will-phase-out-paper-checks-on-september-30th/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced that the federal government will stop issuing paper checks for most federal payments on September 30, 2025. If you are one of the few people who still receives a federal benefit check, it’s time to switch to an electronic payment method. “Reducing paper checks has been a longstanding
- [SBA: Nominations Open for 2026 National Small Business Week Awards](https://www.learncra.com/sba-nominations-open-for-2026-national-small-business-week-awards/) - Nominate America’s Great Entrepreneurs in Every State Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) opened nominations for the 2026 National Small Business Week Awards. National Small Business Week recognizes the contributions of America’s 36 million small businesses – which make up 99% of all businesses in America, create two out of every three new jobs, and employ about
- [SBA: SBA and EPA Announce New Guidance to Ease Diesel Exhaust Mandates for Small Businesses and Small Farms](https://www.learncra.com/sba-sba-and-epa-announce-new-guidance-to-ease-diesel-exhaust-mandates-for-small-businesses-and-small-farms/) - Guidance expected to save family farmers $727 million annually Today, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler joined U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin in Des Moines, Iowa to announce new action to protect American farmers, truckers, and diesel equipment operators from sudden speed and power losses caused by diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) mandates. EPA’s new
- [Federal Reserve: Agency Announces It Will Sunset Its Novel Activities Supervison Program](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-agency-announces-it-will-sunset-its-novel-activities-supervison-program/) - Federal Reserve will return to monitoring banks' novel activities through the normal supervisory process The Federal Reserve Board on Friday announced that it will sunset its novel activities supervision program and return to monitoring banks' novel activities through the normal supervisory process. Since the Board started its program to supervise certain crypto and fintech activities
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexibility Provided for Nebraska Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-and-financil-flexibility-provided-for-nebrasks-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the State of Nebraska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm and straight-line winds from March 18-19, 2025. “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes,
- [FHFA: Allowable LIHTC Amount Doubled for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to Support Affordable Housing](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-allowable-lihtc-amount-doubled-for-fannie-mae-and-freddit-mac-to-support-affordable-housing/) - Consistent with the One Big Beautiful Bill, U.S. Federal Housing Expands America’s Affordable Housing Supply in Rural and Underserved Communities Consistent with President Trump’s historic One Big Beautiful Bill, U.S. Federal Housing is expanding America’s affordable housing supply by doubling the amount that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can invest in safe and sound Low
- [ICBA: Statement Issued on Executive Order on Ensuring Access to Fair Banking](https://www.learncra.com/icba-statement-issued-on-executive-order-on-ensuring-access-to-fair-banking/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on today’s executive order from President Donald Trump on ensuring fair banking for all Americans. “Community banks are built to provide fair access to consumers given their long-standing and proven commitments to serving individuals, families, and small businesses in
- [SBA: New Regional Innovation Cluster Funding Announced to Support Domestic Manufacturing](https://www.learncra.com/sba-new-regional-innovation-cluster-funding-announced-to-support-domestic-manufacturing/) - $7.5 Million Now Available to Support American Industry, Strengthen Supply Chains, and Bring Jobs Back Home In a major push to restore America’s industrial dominance, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced the availability of new Regional Innovation Cluster (RIC) funding of up to $7.5 million to support domestic manufacturers. 98% of American manufacturers are small
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-114/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in May 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting
- [OCC: Comptroller Gould Issues Statement on Executive Order "Guaranteeing Fair Banking for All Americans"](https://www.learncra.com/occ-comptroller-gould-issues-statement-on-executive-order-guaranteeing-fair-banking-for-all-americans/) - Comptroller of the Currency Jonathan V. Gould today issued the following statement in support of the Executive Order, “Guaranteeing Fair Banking For All Americans,” issued by President Donald J. Trump: Fair access to financial services is a fundamental principle of the U.S. banking system. It is unacceptable for banks to discriminate against any customer on
- [CDFI Fund: Upcoming Launch of a New Version of CDFI Information Mapping System (CIMS) Announced](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-upcoming-launch-of-a-new-version-of-cdfi-information-mapping-system-cims-announced/) - The CDFI Fund is preparing to launch a new version of the CDFI Information Mapping System (CIMS), a web-based tool that enables organizations to visually plot eligible service areas and investments in support of their Certification or funding applications. The new version, CIMS5, will replace the existing version CIMS4, which will be retired and no
- [ABA: Joint Bank Trade Statement Issued on Free and Fair Banking Executive Order](https://www.learncra.com/aba-joint-bank-trade-statement-issued-on-free-and-fair-banking-executive-order/) - The American Bankers Association, Bank Policy Institute, Consumer Bankers Association and Financial Services Forum issued a statement today responding to President Donald Trump’s Executive Order to promote access to financial services in America."Today's Executive Order helps ensure all consumers and businesses are treated fairly, a goal the nation's banks share with the Administration. It's in banks’
- [FDIC: Acting Chairman Travis Hill Issues Statement on Executive Order Titled "Guaranteeing Fair Banking for All Americans"](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-acting-chairman-travis-hill-issues-statement-on-executive-order-titled-guaranteeing-fair-banking-for-all-americans/) - The FDIC fully supports President Trump’s Executive Order on politicized or unlawful debanking. As I’ve said in the past, debanking law-abiding customers is unacceptable and regulators must work to end it. The FDIC has taken several actions to further that objective, and soon, we plan to issue a rulemaking that would prohibit examiners from criticizing institutions on the basis
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 15 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-15-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of July 1, 2025, through July 31, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [FEMA: Billions in Federal Funds Announced to Empower States to Prepare for Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/fema-billions-in-federal-funds-announced-to-empower-states-to-prepare-for-disasters/) - FEMA Issues Seven Notices of Funding Opportunity—With More on the Way Over the coming weeks, FEMA is marking billions of dollars in federal funding available for state, local, tribal and territorial partners. This includes seven Notices of Funding Opportunity that FEMA published yesterday. These funds help states manage their response to disasters like fires, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and even
- [SBA: Agency Celebrates 72 Years of Service to America's Small Businesses](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-celebrates-72-years-of-service-to-americas-small-businesses/) - Loeffler’s leadership delivers lending surge, greater accountability, and renewed focus on Main Street Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration celebrates its 72nd anniversary – and over seven decades of empowering entrepreneurs, supporting disaster recovery, and championing economic growth in every corner of our nation.“Over the course of 72 years, the SBA has grown to become the government’s
- [SBA: Agency Issues Letter of Warning to Federal Contracting Officers](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-issues-letter-of-warning-to-federal-contracting-officers/) - Letter underscores obligation to report fraud, waste, and abuse in 8(a) Program This week, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issued a formal letter to contracting officers across the federal government, strengthening oversight of the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program and reinforcing the officers’ legal responsibility to report suspected fraud, waste, and abuse. “Our 8(a) contracting officers have a legal
- [FHFA: House Price Index Down 0.2 Percent in May 2025; Up 2.8 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-down-0-2-percent-in-may-2025-up-2-8-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices fell 0.2 percent in May, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 2.8 percent from May 2024 to May 2025. The previously reported 0.4 percent price decline in April was revised to a 0.3 percent decline. For the nine census divisions, seasonally adjusted monthly home
- [Census Bureau: Annual Integrated Economic Survey Releases First Dataset](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-annual-integrated-economic-survey-releases-first-dataset/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released preliminary estimates from the Annual Integrated Economic Survey (AIES), which provides key measures of economic activity, including the only comprehensive national and subnational data on business revenues, expenses and assets on an annual basis. The AIES is one of the Census Bureau’s newest surveys, designed to replace and integrate seven
- [CDFI Fund: Certification Webinar Recordings on Customized Investment Areas and Affiliates Released](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-certification-webinar-recordings-on-customized-investment-areas-and-affiliates-released/) - Earlier this month, the Community Development Financial Institution Fund’s (CDFI Fund) Office of Certification Policy and Evaluation (OCPE) hosted two webinars focused on Customized Investment Area Target Market types on July 10th and Affiliates on July 24th. The webinar recordings and presentation slides are now available on the CDFI Fund’s website. The Customized Investment Area webinar
- [HUD: Secretary Turner Applauds President Trump's Executive Order on Homelessness](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-applauds-president-trumps-executive-order-on-homelessness/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner applauded President Trump’s Executive Order (EO), “Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets.” The EO restores accountability to homelessness programs by ensuring Americans suffering from severe mental illness or addiction get treatment to support recovery and self-sufficiency. By taking action to redirect federal resources
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for New Mexico](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-new-mexico-2/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of New Mexico to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, flooding and landslides from June 23, 2025, and continuing. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Lincoln County. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for West Virginia](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-west-virginia-5/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of West Virginia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from June 14-15, 2025. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Marion and Ohio counties. Assistance can include grants for
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Missouri](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-missouri-5/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms and flooding from May 23-26, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kansas-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Kansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from May 18-19, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Michigan](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-michigan-3/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Michigan to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm from March 28-30, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Oregon](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-oregon-5/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Oregon to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides from March 13-20, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Indiana](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-indiana-3/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Indiana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from March 30 – April 9, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations
- [Census Bureau: Initial Plan for Conducting 2030 Census Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-initial-plan-for-conducting-2030-census-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released the first version of the 2030 Census Operational Plan, along with an interactive tool for exploring it. This plan documents the initial, high-level design for the next census, outlining the breadth of work needed to conduct and support a quality population and housing count. Future iterations of the plan will describe the
- [CDFI Fund: Dietrich Douglas Named Acting Director of CDFI Fund Following Director Pravina Raghavan's Resignation](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-dietrich-douglas-named-acting-director-of-cdfi-fund-following-director-pravina-raghavans-resignation/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury has named Dietrich Douglas as the Acting Director of the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund). Mr. Douglas currently serves as Legal Counsel for the CDFI Fund. “With the best interest of the CDFI Fund, the community development finance sector, and the communities we serve in mind, I
- [Federal Bank Regulatory Agencies Seek Further Comment on Interagency Effort to Reduce Regulatory Burden](https://www.learncra.com/federal-bank-regulatory-agencies-seek-further-comment-on-interagency-effort-to-reduce-regulatory-burden/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today announced their fourth notice requesting public comment to reduce regulatory burden. The Economic Growth and Regulatory Paperwork Reduction Act requires the agencies to review their regulations at least once every 10 years to identify outdated, unnecessary, or unduly burdensome regulatory requirements for their supervised institutions. To facilitate this review,
- [CDFI Fund: Updated CDFI Fund Certification Application Frequently Asked Questions & Supplemental Guidance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-updated-cdfi-fund-certification-application-frequently-asked-questions-supplemental-guidance-issued/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) has updated the Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Certification Application Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). New content has been added to the FAQs since the CDFI Fund published a new more user-friendly web-based version of the FAQs on March 17, 2025. The
- [ABA: Foundation Launches Guide for Nonprofits on Forming Bank Partnerships](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-launches-guide-for-nonprofits-on-forming-bank-partnerships/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation today released a new resource for nonprofit organizations on how to establish and maintain bank partnerships. The guide, “The Power of Collaboration: A Guide for Nonprofits to Partner with Banks,” aims to help organizations learn more about the business of banking and how to foster strong, mutually beneficial partnerships that can lift
- [FEMA: Two Notices of Funding Opportunity Published to Empower States to Take Charge of Their Own Individualized Disaster Preparedness](https://www.learncra.com/fema-two-notices-of-funding-opportunity-published-to-empower-states-to-take-charge-of-their-own-individualized-disaster-preparedness/) - Today, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) published two Notices of Funding Opportunity, making millions in federal funding available to help states and territories protect their communities from floods and earthquakes. Both floods and earthquakes can happen nearly anywhere with little warning, and they both can cause mass devastation to American communities. These funds demonstrate
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexibility Delivered for Missouri Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-and-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-missouri-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the State of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from March 30 – April 8, 2025. “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexibilty Delivered for Iowa Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-and-financial-flexibilty-delivered-for-iowa-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the State of Iowa to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm on March 19, 2025. “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods, and businesses
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexibility Delivered for Kansas Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-and-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-kansas-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the State of Kansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm, straight-line winds, flooding and wildfires from March 14-19, 2025. "HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help
- [Census Bureau: New Credit Access and Opportunity Data Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-credit-access-and-opportunity-data-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau and Opportunity Insights (a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization based at Harvard University) today released new data including credit scores, delinquency rates, credit card balances, and mortgage and student loan balances by county, race and class (parental income) for children born between 1978 and 1985. Users can explore the data on the interactive Opportunity
- [SBA: Center of Faith Launched Including Removal of Ban on Disaster Relief for Faith Organizations](https://www.learncra.com/sba-center-of-faith-launched-including-ban-on-disaster-relief-for-faith-organizations/) - Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) launched its Center for Faith to empower faith-based businesses, community organizations, and houses of worship with access to capital, counselling, and government contracting opportunities. As part of its commitment to ending federal discrimination against religious entities, the agency is also eliminating a regulation, previously upheld by the Biden
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges Congress to Build on Pro-Agriculture Policies in Testimony Before House Agriculture Committee](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-congress-to-build-on-pro-agriculture-policies-in-testimony-before-house-agriculture-committee/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today testified before Congress on the importance of community banks to the nation’s agriculture credit markets and how policymakers can enhance the new farm bill. Testifying before the House Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit, Brian Gilbert of First National Bank in Sioux Falls, S.D.,
- [Census Bureau: New Estimates From the National Experimental Well-Being Statistics Project Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-estimates-from-the-national-experimental-well-being-statistics-project-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released new estimates from its National Experimental Well-Being Statistics (NEWS) project. NEWS is a research-driven project with the goal to improve how the Census Bureau measures income and poverty. NEWS does this by exploring new methods for creating these economic “well-being” indicators by looking back at data collections from previous years, using
- [SBA: SBA and Department of Labor Sign MOU to Support Domestic Manufacturing](https://www.learncra.com/sba-sba-and-department-of-labor-sign-mou-to-support-domestic-manufacturing/) - Enhanced collaboration will cultivate pipeline of skilled workers, restore American industrial dominance Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to support American manufacturing. The agreement, which will enhance collaboration and data-sharing across key programs, is designed to cultivate a pipeline of skilled workers while also promoting
- [FDIC: Board of Directors Approve Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on the Establishment and Relocation of Branches and Offices](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-of-directors-approve-notice-of-proposed-rulemaking-on-the-establishment-and-relocation-of-branches-and-offices/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved a notice of proposed rulemaking to streamline the processes for the establishment and relocation of domestic branches and offices. The proposed rule is intended to improve the speed and certainty of, and reduce the regulatory burden associated with, the filing process under 12 CFR
- [FDIC: Board of Directors Propose to Establish Office of Supervisory Appeals](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-of-directors-propose-to-establish-office-of-supervisory-appeals/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved a proposal that would amend the agency’s Guidelines for Appeals of Material Supervisory Determinations. Through this proposal, the FDIC would replace the existing Supervision Appeals Review Committee (SARC) with an independent, standalone office within the FDIC, known as the Office of Supervisory Appeals (Office).
- [FDIC: Agency Proposes Regulatory Threshold Adjustments and Indexing to Reflect Inflation for Certain Regulations](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-agency-proposes-regulatory-threshold-adjustments-and-indexing-to-reflect-inflation-for-certain-regulations/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPR) that would update certain regulatory thresholds to reflect historical inflation, including those under 12 CFR part 363 related to annual independent audit and reporting requirements, and adjust those thresholds in the future based on a proposed indexing methodology. FDIC
- [Agencies Issue Joint Proposal to Rescind 2023 Community Reinvestment Act Final Rule](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-joint-proposal-to-rescind-2023-community-reinvestment-act-final-rule/) - Federal bank regulatory agencies today jointly issued a proposal to rescind the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) final rule issued in October 2023 and replace it with the prior CRA regulations that were originally adopted by the agencies in 1995, with certain technical amendments. If adopted, the proposal would restore certainty in the CRA framework for
- [OCC: Jonathan V. Gould Takes Office as the 32nd Comptroller of the Currency](https://www.learncra.com/occ-jonathan-v-gould-takes-office-as-the-32nd-comptroller-of-the-currency/) - Jonathan V. Gould today became the 32nd Comptroller of the Currency, after being sworn into the office by Dr. Michael Faulkender, Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Treasury. President Donald J. Trump nominated Mr. Gould on February 11, 2025, and the U.S. Senate confirmed him on July 10, 2025. Mr. Gould takes over from Rodney E.
- [Agencies Issue Joint Statement on Risk-Management Considerations for Crypto-Asset Safekeeping](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-joint-statement-on-risk-management-considerations-for-crypto-asset-safekeeping/) - Federal bank regulatory agencies today issued a joint statement in their continued efforts to provide clarity on banks’ engagement in crypto-asset-related activities. The statement highlights for banks potential risk-management considerations related to holding crypto-assets on their customers’ behalf, or crypto-asset safekeeping. The joint statement discusses existing risk-management principles that apply to crypto-asset safekeeping and reminds
- [OCC: References to Disparate Impact Removed from OCC "Fair Lending" Booklet and No Longer Included in Examinations](https://www.learncra.com/occ-references-to-disparate-impact-removed-from-occ-fair-lending-booklet-and-no-longer-included-in-examinations/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has removed references to supervising banks1 for disparate impact liability from the “Fair Lending” booklet of the Comptroller’s Handbook and has commenced removing references in other issuances. Concurrently, the OCC has instructed its examiners that they should no longer examine for disparate impact. Note for Community Banks The OCC’s
- [ABA: U.S. Farm Banks Deliver Strong Growth and Stability in 2024, Reinforce Vital Role in Agricultural Credit](https://www.learncra.com/aba-u-s-farm-banks-deliver-strong-growth-and-stability-in-2024-reinforce-vital-role-in-agricultural-credit/) - The American Bankers Association today released its annual Farm Bank Performance Report highlighting the critical role farm banks played in supporting U.S. agriculture in 2024. Despite continued challenges from global uncertainty and lingering supply chain disruptions, farm banks posted solid financial performance, improved asset quality and increased lending to America’s farmers and ranchers. The U.S. banking industry
- [FDIC: Supervisory Relief Granted to Help Financial Institutions and Facilities Recover in Areas of Texas Affected by Severe Storms, Straight-Line Winds and Flooding](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-supervisory-relief-granted-to-help-financial-institutions-and-facilities-recovery-in-areas-of-texas-affected-by-severe-storms-straight-line-winds-and-flooding/) - The FDIC has announced a series of steps intended to provide regulatory relief to financial institutions and facilitate recovery in areas of Texas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding. Please review the FDIC’s Disaster Page to review information about what to do if your bank is affected. Statement of Applicability: The contents of, and material referenced
- [FEMA: Five New Texas Counties Eligible for FEMA Disaster Assistance Related to July 2025 Disaster Declaration](https://www.learncra.com/fema-five-new-texas-counties-eligible-for-fema-disaster-assistance-related-to-july-2025-disaster-declaration/) - Homeowners and renters in Burnet, San Saba, Tom Green, Travis and Williamson counties are now eligible for FEMA disaster assistance after the severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding that began July 2. FEMA and the State of Texas may be able to help with serious disaster-related needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs and personal property
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller Rodney Hood Congratulates Jonathan Gould on Senate Confirmation as Comptroller of the Currency](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-rodney-hood-congratulates-jonathan-gould-on-senate-confirmation-as-comptroller-of-the-currency/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood today issued the following statement following the confirmation of Jonathan Gould by the U.S. Senate to become the Comptroller of the Currency. I extend my sincere congratulations to Jonathan Gould, who will soon become the 32nd Comptroller of the Currency. Mr. Gould will be the first confirmed Comptroller
- [HUD: Home Appraisal Process Streamlined Through Termination of PAVE Task Force Policies](https://www.learncra.com/hud-home-appraisal-process-streamlined-through-termination-of-pave-task-force-policies/) - Termination of DEI PAVE task force policies will improve efficiency, reduce regulatory burden, and expand access to homeownership U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner and Acting Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Jeffrey Clark announced the termination of
- [ABA: ABA Donates $10,000 to Flood Relief Efforts in Texas, Urges Bankers to Contribute](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-donates-10000-to-flood-relief-efforts-in-texas-urges-bankers-to-contribute/) - In the aftermath of the recent catastrophic flooding in Central Texas, the American Bankers Association will donate $10,000 to Texas Bankers Foundation, the charitable arm of the Texas Bankers Association, to assist with immediate disaster response and recovery. The Texas Bankers Foundation has established a page for online donations to provide immediate financial assistance for
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges OCC to Consider Key Principles for Digital Asset National Bank Charter Applications](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-occ-to-consider-key-principles-for-digital-asset-national-bank-charter-applications/) - In light of an increase in charter applications from nonbank digital asset firms, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today urged the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency to keep in mind several key principles when considering such applications. In a letter to the OCC, ICBA noted that applications from nonbank digital asset-related entities
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for New Mexico](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-new-mexico/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of New Mexico to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from severe storms, flooding and landslides beginning on June 23, 2025, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all federal disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused
- [HUD: "Express Lane" Launced to Expedite Financing for Residential Care Facilities](https://www.learncra.com/hud-express-lane-launced-to-expedite-financing-for-residential-care-facilities/) - FHA cuts processing times from five months to two weeks for eligible low-risk transactions U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the launch of a new “Express Lane” to expedite Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insured refinancing applications under the FHA Section 232/223(f) Mortgage Insurance for Residential Care Facilities program. This
- [CFPB: Financial Civil Penalty Fund Rule Amended](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-financial-civil-penalty-fund-rule-amended/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is proposing to amend its 2013 rule implementing the provision of the Consumer Financial Protection Act of 2010 (CFPA) that establishes a Consumer Financial Civil Penalty Fund. Under the CFPA, the Civil Penalty Fund may be used for payments to victims of activities subject to civil penalties; to the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Texas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-texas-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Texas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding from July 2, 2025, and continuing. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Kerr County. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home
- [FFIEC: 2024 HMDA Data on Mortgage Lending Published](https://www.learncra.com/ffiec-2024-hmda-data-on-mortgage-lending-published/) - The Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) recently published data on 2024 mortgage lending transactions reported under the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) by 4,908 U.S. financial institutions. The Snapshot National Loan-Level Dataset released contains the national HMDA datasets as of May 19, 2025. The FFIEC released several data products to serve a variety of data users,
- [SBA: Interagency Task Force on Veterans Small Business Development to Host Public Meeting on July 15](https://www.learncra.com/sba-interagency-task-force-on-veterans-small-business-development-to-host-public-meeting-on-july-15/) - Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that the quarterly Interagency Task Force (IATF) on Veterans Small Business Development meeting will occur on July 15, 2025. The public is encouraged to attend this meeting and hear updates on the status of policies and initiatives that affect veteran-owned businesses. “Veterans’ resourcefulness, determination, and grit are just a
- [ICBA: ICBA ThinkTECH Accelerator Showcase Returns to the GSBC Connecting Fintechs with Future Community Leaders](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-thinktech-accelerator-showcase-returns-to-the-gsbc-connecting-fintechs-with-future-community-leaders/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) announced its upcoming ICBA ThinkTECH Accelerator program showcase will once again take place at the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado (GSBC). The event, set for July 17, marks the culmination of the latest Accelerator program (AP9), a 10-week collaborative experience designed to foster fintech-community bank partnerships that advance community
- [FEMA: FEMA, SBA and the State of Texas to Open Disaster Recovery Center in Kerrville, Texas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-fema-sba-and-the-state-of-texas-to-open-disaster-recovery-center-in-kerrville-texas/) - In coordination with the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) staff will open a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) tomorrow, July 10 to offer face-to-face help to survivors affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding that began July 2. Homeowners, renters and eligible non-residents in Kerr County may receive
- [OCC: National Banks and Federal Savings Associations in Texas Affected by Flooding Allowed to Close](https://www.learncra.com/occ-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-in-texas-affected-by-flooding-allowed-to-close/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today issued a proclamation allowing national banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches and agencies of foreign banks to close offices in areas of Texas affected by flooding. In issuing the proclamation, the OCC expects that only those bank offices directly affected by potentially unsafe conditions
- [HUD: Foreclosure Relief Provided to Texans Impacted by Floods](https://www.learncra.com/hud-foreclosure-relief-provided-to-texans-impacted-by-floods/) - Action from Secretary Turner provides immediate relief for more than 900 Federal Housing Administration (FHA) single family mortgages in impacted areas U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced a 90-day foreclosure moratorium on Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured single-family mortgages in the areas of Kerr County, Texas, devastated by continuing severe
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-113/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in April 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting
- [HUD and Census Bureau: New Residential Sales Report for May 2025 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/hud-and-census-bureau-new-residential-sale-report-for-may-2025-issued/) - The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development jointly announced the following new residential sales statistics for May 2025: New Home SalesSales of new single-family houses in May 2025 were at a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 623,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau and the
- [ICBA: New ICBA Polling Shows Public Support for Policy Efforts Targeting Check Fraud](https://www.learncra.com/icba-new-icba-polling-shows-public-support-for-policy-efforts-targeting-check-fraud/) - Following federal banking regulators’ recently issued request for information on potential agency actions to address check fraud and other forms of payments fraud, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today announced polling results showing Americans support policy efforts to take on the scourge of check fraud. According to ICBA polling conducted by Morning Consult in June:
- [SBA: Agency Approves California Governor Newsom’s Disaster Declaration for Los Angeles](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-approves-california-governor-newsoms-disaster-declaration-for-los-angeles/) - Federal Relief Mobilized to Address Estimated $1B in Damage from Violent Rioters Attacking Federal Law Enforcement Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced approval of Governor Gavin Newsom’s long-overdue request for disaster relief in downtown Los Angeles, where he allowed pro-illegal alien riots to harm our brave ICE agents and destroy small businesses in the city.
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller of the Currency Discusses Importance of Homeownership](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-of-the-currency-discusses-importance-of-homeownership/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood discussed homeownership as a pathway to financial inclusion and generational wealth in remarks at the Detroit REACh Homebuyers Fair, held in recognition of National Homeownership Month on June 28. In his remarks, Acting Comptroller Hood discussed the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s work to expand
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 22 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-22-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of June 1, 2025, through June 30, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [OCC: New Report Highlights Key Risks in Federal Banking System](https://www.learncra.com/occ-new-report-highlights-key-risks-in-federal-banking-system/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today reported the key issues facing the federal banking system in its Semiannual Risk Perspective for Spring 2025. The OCC reported that the strength of the federal banking system remains sound. Consumer sentiment, geopolitical risk, sustained higher interest rates, and downward movement in some macroeconomic indicators have increased
- [ABA: Bank Economists Project Credit Conditions May Weaken for Consumers and Businesses Over the Next Six Months](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-economists-project-credit-conditions-may-weaken-for-consumers-and-businesses-over-the-next-six-months/) - Credit conditions are expected to soften over the next six months as businesses and consumers wait for greater clarity on the economic outlook especially trade policy, according to the American Bankers Association’s latest Credit Conditions Index released today. The latest summary of ABA’s Credit Conditions Index examines a suite of indices derived from the quarterly outlook for
- [ABA: ABA Expresses Strong Support for Treasury’s Effort to Increase Efficiency in the Payments System in New Letter](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-expresses-strong-support-for-treasurys-effort-to-increase-efficiency-in-the-payments-system-in-new-letter/) - In a new letter to the Department of Treasury today, the American Bankers Association expressed strong support for the administration’s effort to increase the efficiency of the payment system while at the same time improving its security and providing an enhanced service to the public. The letter, written in response to the agency’s Request for Information regarding
- [Census Bureau: 2023 County Business Patterns Data Now Available](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-2023-county-business-patterns-data-now-available/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released the 2023 County Business Patterns (CBP). CBP provides annual subnational economic data for businesses with paid employees. The number of establishments, employment during the week of March 12, first quarter payroll, and annual payroll are provided for nearly 1,000 industries, as defined by the 2017 North American Industry Classification System
- [Federal Reserve: Governor Barr Delivers Speech on Community Development at the Federal Reserve](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-governor-barr-delivers-speech-on-community-development-at-the-federal-reserve/) - Following is the text of Governor Barr's speech: Community Development at the Federal Reserve Governor Michael S. Barr At the Policy Summit 2025: Building Strong and Sustainable Communities, hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, Cleveland, Ohio Thank you, Eric, thank you to the conference organizers for asking me to speak today, and thank
- [CDFI Fund: CDFI Certification Reapplication Window 2 Opening on July 7th through September 30th](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-cdfi-certification-reapplication-window-2-opening-on-july-7th-through-september-30th/) - Window 2, the second Application submission period and part of the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund’s (CDFI Fund) established General Reapplication Submission Deadlines, will be open from July 7, 2025, through September 30, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Beginning July 7th, organizations with fiscal years that end on December 31, 2024; February 28, 2025; or March 31, 2025, will have
- [SBA: Administrator Loeffler Orders Full-Scale Audit of SBA 8(a) Contracting Program](https://www.learncra.com/sba-administrator-loeffler-orders-full-scale-audit-of-sba-8a-contracting-program/) - Investigation will refer fraud, bribery for enforcement Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), announced that she has directed the SBA’s Office of General Contracting and Business Development to launch an immediate and full-scale audit of the agency’s 8(a) Business Development Program after a U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation uncovered a years-long fraud and
- [HUD: Red Tape Slashed to Cut Homeownership Financing Costs](https://www.learncra.com/hud-red-tape-slashed-to-cut-homeownership-financing-costs/) - FHA eliminates 12 costly and burdensome policies in sweeping rollback U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) is rescinding more than 12 sub-regulatory policies under its Single Family mortgage insurance program. These sweeping changes cut red tape, help reduce the cost of homeownership, and eliminate
- [FDIC: Coleman County State Bank (Coleman, TX) Acquires Insured Deposits of The Santa Anna National Bank (Santa Anna, TX)](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-coleman-county-state-bank-coleman-tx-acquires-insured-deposits-of-the-santa-anna-national-bank-santa-anna-tx/) - The Santa Anna National Bank of Santa Anna, Texas, was closed today by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver. The FDIC entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with Coleman County State Bank of Coleman, Texas, to assume the insured deposits and some
- [OCC: FDIC Appointed as Receiver for The Santa Anna National Bank of Santa Anna, Texas](https://www.learncra.com/occ-fdic-appointed-as-receiver-for-the-santa-anna-national-bank-of-santa-anna-texas/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver for The Santa Anna National Bank, Santa Anna, Texas. As of March 31, 2025, the bank reported approximately $77 million in total assets. The OCC acted after finding the bank had experienced substantial dissipation of assets
- [ABA: New Treasury Check Verification Tool Launches to Help Banking Industry Fight Fraud](https://www.learncra.com/aba-new-treasury-check-verification-tool-launches-to-help-banking-industy-fight-fraud/) - New free online platform allows member banks to more easily verify payee information for government checks using the Treasury Department’s Treasury Check Verification System As a part of the American Bankers Association's ongoing commitment to support banks of all sizes and their customers in the fight against fraud, ABA today launched a new online platform
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds House Passage of Bill to Restrict Mortgage "Trigger Leads" Following Unanimous Senate Passage](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-house-passage-of-bill-to-restrict-mortgage-trigger-leads-following-unanimous-senate-passage/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) applauded Congress following today’s House passage of the bipartisan Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act (H.R. 2808), which will help protect the financial privacy of mortgage applicants. With today’s vote on H.R. 2808 following the Senate’s unanimous passage of its version of the bill (S. 1467) earlier this month, ICBA
- [Federal Reserve: Reputational Risk Removed as Component of Examination Programs in Bank Supervision](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-reputational-risk-removed-as-component-of-examination-programs-in-bank-supervision/) - The Federal Reserve Board on Monday announced that reputational risk will no longer be a component of examination programs in its supervision of banks. The Board has started the process of reviewing and removing references to reputation and reputational risk from its supervisory materials, including examination manuals, and, where appropriate, replacing those references with more
- [Census Bureau: Older Adults Outnumber Children in 11 States and Nearly Half of Counties](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-older-adults-outnumber-children-in-11-states-and-nearly-half-of-counties/) - The U.S. population age 65 and older rose by 3.1% (to 61.2 million) while the population under age 18 decreased by 0.2% (to 73.1 million) from 2023 to 2024, according to the Vintage 2024 Population Estimates released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. The data show the population continued to age, with the share of the population
- [CDFI Fund: Public Comments Sought on Certification of Material Events Form](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-public-comments-sought-on-certification-of-material-events-form/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general public and other Federal agencies to take this opportunity to comment on continuing information collections, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Currently, the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund), U.S.
- [Agencies Release 2025 List of Distressed and Underserved Nonmetropolitan Middle-Income Geographies](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-release-2025-list-of-distressed-and-underserved-nonmetropolitan-middle-income-geographies/) - Federal bank regulatory agencies today released the 2025 list of distressed or underserved nonmetropolitan middle-income geographies where certain bank activities are eligible for Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) credit. Under the CRA, the agencies assess a bank’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, consistent with safe and
- [HUD: Secretary Turner Moves to Eliminate FHA Green Housing Mandate](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-moves-to-eliminate-fha-green-housing-mandate/) - Issues Directive to Level all Multifamily Mortgage Insurance Premium Categories to 25 Basis Points, Ending the Green and Energy Efficient Category U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner today announced the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will propose an across-the-board leveling of its Upfront Capitalized and Annual Mortgage Insurance Premiums (MIPs) to
- [HUD: New Headquarters Announced in Alexandria, Virginia](https://www.learncra.com/hud-new-headquarters-announced-in-alexandria-virginia/) - Relocation from Failing Federal Facility Marks New Era Defined by Promotion of Excellence, Prioritization of Health and Safety, and Efficient Use of Taxpayer Dollars U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the relocation of HUD headquarters from the Robert C. Weaver Federal Building to 2415 Eisenhower Avenue in Alexandria, Virginia.
- [FHFA: House Price Index Down 0.4 Percent in April 2025; Up 3.0 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-down-0-4-percent-in-april-2025-up-3-0-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices fell 0.4 percent in April, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 3.0 percent from April 2024 to April 2025. The previously reported 0.1 percent price decline in March was revised upward to 0.0 percent. For the nine census divisions, seasonally adjusted monthly home price
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Tennessee](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-tennessee-5/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Tennessee to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from April 2-24, 2025. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Dyer, Hardeman, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion and Wilson counties. Assistance
- [OCC: Mortgage Performance Report for First Quarter 2025 Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-mortgage-performance-report-for-first-quarter-2025-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) reported on the performance of first-lien mortgages in the federal banking system during the first quarter of 2025. The OCC Mortgage Metrics Report, First Quarter 2025 showed that 97.6 percent of mortgages included in the report were current and performing at the end of the quarter, an increase
- [SBA: Agency Reinstates Rule to Return Federal Contractors to Work](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-reinstates-rule-to-return-federal-contractors-to-work/) - COVID-Era Moratorium on Physical Office Requirement for 8(a) Program Will End September 30 Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced that it would be reinstating a rule to require government contractors to return to work. Effective Oct. 1, participants in SBA’s 8(a) Business Development Program will once again be required to have an actual, physical office within the geographic
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexibility Delivered for Oklahoma Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-and-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-oklahoma-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the State of Oklahoma to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires and straight-line winds from March 14–21, 2025. “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods, and businesses
- [Federal Bank Regulatory Agencies Seek Comment to Address Payments and Check Fraud](https://www.learncra.com/federal-bank-regulatory-agencies-seek-comment-to-address-payments-and-check-fraud/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today announced a request for comment on potential actions to help consumers, businesses, and financial institutions mitigate risk of payments fraud, with a particular focus on check fraud. For purposes of the request for information, payments fraud generally refers to the use of illegal means to make or receive payments
- [CDFI Fund: CDFI Certification Application "Hot Topics" Webinar Scheduled for June 26th](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-cdfi-certification-application-hot-topics-webinar-scheduled-for-june-26th/) - The CDFI Fund’s monthly Certification webinars, which are intended to serve as a forum for potential CDFI Certification Applicants, Certified CDFIs, and other CDFI Certification stakeholders to ask questions and discuss CDFI Certification and the CDFI Certification process, have been scheduled for calendar year 2025. The webinars are open to the general public and do
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexibility Delivered for Mississippi Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-and-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-mississippi-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the State of Mississippi to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from March 14-15, 2025. “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods,
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexiblity Delivered to Kentucky Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-and-financial-flexiblity-delivered-to-kentucky-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes from May 16-17, 2025. “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods,
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexibility Delivered for Arkansas Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-and-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-arkansas-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the State of Arkansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from April 2–22, 2025. “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods, and
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexibility Delivered for Texas Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-and-financial-flexibility-delivered-for-texas-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the State of Texas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding from March 26-28, 2025. “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods, and businesses
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexiblity Delivered for Missouri Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-and-financial-flexiblity-delivered-for-missouri-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the State of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and wildfires from March 14-15, 2025. “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes,
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Missouri for May Disaster](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-may-disaster/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding on May 16, 2025. The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Scott and St. Louis counties and the independent city of St.
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller of the Currency Releases Letter on Preemption Regulations](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-of-the-currency-releases-letter-on-preemption-regulations/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood today released a letter in response to correspondence from the Conference of State Bank Supervisors requesting the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) rescind its preemption regulations. In the letter, Acting Comptroller Hood reaffirmed the OCC’s support and defense of preemption as a cornerstone of
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Missouri for April Disaster](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-missouri-4/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding on April 29, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [HUD: Agency, Ginnie Mae, and Korea Housing Finance Corporation Sign Agreement to Advance Affordable Housing and Strategic Housing Finance Cooperation](https://www.learncra.com/hud-agency-ginnie-mae-and-korea-housing-finance-corporation-sign-agreement-to-advance-affordable-housing-and-strategic-housing-finance-cooperation/) - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae), and the Korea Housing Finance Corporation (KHFC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen international cooperation in housing finance. The MOU underscores a shared commitment to expanding access to affordable housing, cultivating innovation, and supporting residential development. This agreement marks
- [Federal Reserve: Michelle W. Bowman Sworn in as Vice Chair for Supervision of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-michelle-w-bowman-sworn-in-as-vice-chair-for-supervision-of-the-board-of-governors-of-the-federal-reserve-system/) - Michelle W. Bowman took the oath of office as Vice Chair for Supervision of the Federal Reserve Board on Monday. The oath was administered by Chair Jerome H. Powell in the press briefing room of the Board's Martin building. President Trump nominated Ms. Bowman on March 24, 2025, and she was confirmed by the United
- [ABA: Nebraska Banker Receives ABA Distinguished Service Award for Risk and Compliance](https://www.learncra.com/aba-nebraska-banker-receives-aba-distinguished-service-award-for-risk-and-compliance/) - Krysti Cunningham, chief risk officer for Security National Bank of Omaha is the recipient of the 2025 American Bankers Association’ Distinguished Service Award for Risk and Compliance, the association announced today. The award, which recognizes leadership, initiative and accomplishment in banking risk and compliance management, as well as volunteer service through ABA, was presented during ABA’s
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-112/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in March 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [CDFI Fund: Next CDFI Certification Agreement Webinar Scheduled for June 12th](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-next-cdfi-certification-agreement-webinar-scheduled-for-june-12th/) - Reminder: Next CDFI Certification Webinar is June 12th The CDFI Fund’s monthly Certification webinars, which are intended to serve as a forum for potential CDFI Certification Applicants, Certified CDFIs, and other CDFI Certification stakeholders to ask questions and discuss CDFI Certification and the CDFI Certification process, have been scheduled for calendar year 2025. The webinars
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller of the Currency Discusses Regulatory Agenda](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-of-the-currency-discusses-regulatory-agenda/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood today discussed his regulatory agenda in remarks at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Capital Markets Summit. In his remarks, Acting Comptroller Hood detailed the Office of the Comptroller’s work to embrace bank-fintech partnerships, expand bank activities involving digital assets, promote financial inclusion and reduce regulatory burden to
- [Census Bureau: New Data on Detailed Languages Spoken at Home and the Ability to Speak English Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-data-on-detailed-languages-spoken-at-home-and-the-ability-to-speak-english/) - More than 1 in 5 people (22%) age 5 and older in the United States spoke a language other than English at home during the five-year period from 2017 to 2021, according to new data released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. The newly released table package — Detailed Languages Spoken at Home and Ability to
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 18 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-18-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of May 1, 2025, through May 31, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [ABA: ABA Applauds Senate Confirmation of Michelle Bowman as Fed Vice Chair for Supervision](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-senate-confirmation-of-michelle-bowman-as-fed-vice-chair-for-supervision/) - “We congratulate Governor Michelle Bowman on her confirmation to serve as the Federal Reserve’s next vice chair for supervision and appreciate her willingness to take on these added responsibilities at the Fed. With her deep experience as a federal regulator, state regulator and community banker, Governor Bowman understands the real-world impact U.S. banking rules can
- [ICBA: ICBA Congratulates Michelle Bowman on Confirmation as Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-congratulates-michelle-bowman-on-confirmation-as-federal-reserve-vice-chair-for-supervision/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) congratulated Federal Reserve Governor Michelle Bowman on today’s Senate vote confirming her ICBA-advocated nomination to serve as Fed vice chair for supervision. “ICBA and the nation’s community bankers congratulate Governor Bowman for her confirmation as Fed vice chair for supervision,” ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey said.
- [ICBA: Independent Banker Magazine Unveils 2025 “40 Under 40: Community Bank Leaders”](https://www.learncra.com/icba-independent-banker-magazine-unveils-2025-40-under-40-community-bank-leaders/) - Independent Banker magazine, the award-winning monthly publication of the Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA), has announced its seventh annual 40 Under 40: Community Bank Leaders list, recognizing the rising stars transforming community banking through innovation, leadership, and service. Drawn from banks across the country, this year’s honorees represent a diverse mix of emerging leaders who
- [HUD: Secretary Turner Celebrates June as National Homeownership Month](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-celebrates-june-as-national-homeownership-month/) - Advancing Affordability, Access, and the American Dream of Homeownership U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner today declared June as National Homeownership Month, celebrating the power of homeownership to build stronger communities and spotlighting HUD’s role in restoring the American Dream of homeownership. “National Homeownership Month is a time to celebrate
- [HUD and Census Bureau: New Residential Sales Report for April 2025 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/hud-and-census-bureau-new-residential-sales-report-for-april-2025-issued/) - The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development jointly announced the following new residential sales statistics for April 2025: New Home Sales Sales of new single-family houses in April 2025 were at a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 743,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau and the
- [FHFA: U.S. House Prices Rise 4.0 Percent Over the Prior Year; Up 0.7 Percent from the Fourth Quarter 2024](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-u-s-house-prices-rise-4-0-percent-over-the-prior-year-up-0-7-percent-from-the-fourth-quarter-2024/) - U.S. house prices rose 4.0 percent between the first quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices for the first quarter of 2025 were up 0.7 percent compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. FHFA’s seasonally adjusted monthly index for March was down 0.1 percent from
- [OCC: Third and Fourth Quarters 2025 CRA Evaluation Schedule Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-third-and-fourth-quarter-2025-cra-evaluation-schedule-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released its schedule of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) evaluations to be conducted in the third and fourth quarters of 2025. The OCC encourages public comment on the CRA-related activities of the national banks and federal savings associations (collectively, banks) scheduled to be evaluated under the
- [FDIC: Data Collection Begins for Summary of Deposits Survey and Filing for June 30, 2025](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-data-collection-begins-for-summary-of-deposits-survey-and-filing-for-june-30-2025/) - The Summary of Deposits (SOD) is the annual survey of branch office deposits as of June 30, 2025 for all FDIC-insured institutions, including insured U.S. branches of foreign banks. All institutions with branch offices are required to submit the survey; institutions with only a main office are exempt. All survey responses are required by July
- [FDIC: CRA Examination Schedules for Third and Fourth Quarters 2025 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-cra-examination-schedules-for-third-and-fourth-quarters-2025-issued/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued the lists of institutions scheduled for a Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) examination during the third quarter 2025 and fourth quarter 2025. CRA regulations require each federal bank and thrift regulator to publish its quarterly CRA examination schedule at least 30 days before the beginning of each quarter. The
- [Federal Reserve: Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2024 Report Issued](https://www.learncra.com/15281-2/) - The Federal Reserve Board on Wednesday issued its Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2024 report, which examines the financial circumstances of U.S. adults and their families. Overall, the report shows that financial well-being was similar to the previous two years as concerns about prices persisted and labor market conditions remained solid. The report draws from the
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller of the Currency Discusses Financial Literacy Education](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-of-the-currency-discusses-financial-literacy-education/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood today discussed the importance of financial literacy education in remarks at the Financial Literacy and Education Commission. In his remarks, Acting Comptroller Hood discussed the role financial literacy education plays in driving financial inclusion and participation in the financial system. He encouraged careful monitoring of the rapidly
- [Treasury: Request for Information Released Related to the Executive Order 14247 “Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account”](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-request-for-information-released-related-to-the-executive-order-14247-modernizing-payments-to-and-from-americas-bank-account/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) released a request for information related to the Executive Order (EO) 14247 “Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account,” which transitions federal disbursements to electronic payments. Beginning September 30, 2025, all federal payments that are currently made by paper check—including Social Security benefits, tax refunds, and vendor payments—will be
- [HUD: $1.3 million Provided to Support Youth Aging Out of Foster Care](https://www.learncra.com/hud-1-3-million-provided-to-support-youth-aging-out-of-foster-care/) - Announcement is part of National Foster Care Month and Provides Youth with a Path to Housing Stability and Self-Sufficiency U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner today announced a $1.3 million dollar investment across 10 states under HUD’s Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) program to assist young Americans aging out of
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kentucky](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kentucky-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes from May 16-17, 2025. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Caldwell, Laurel, Pulaski, Russell, Trigg and Union counties. Assistance can include grants
- [FDIC: Agency Rescinds 2024 Statement of Policy on Bank Merger Transactions and Reinstates Prior Policy](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-rescission-of-2024-statement-of-policy-on-bank-merger-transaction-and-resinstatement-of-prior-policy-announced/) - Summary: The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved the rescission of the agency’s 2024 Statement of Policy on Bank Merger Transactions (2024 Statement of Policy) and the reinstatement of the Statement of Policy on Bank Merger Transactions (Bank Merger Statement of Policy) that was in effect prior to 2024. As noted
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Arkansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-arkansas-5/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Arkansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from April 2–22, 2025. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Clark, Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Desha, Fulton, Hot Spring, Jackson, Miller, Ouachita, Pulaski, Randolph,
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Oklahoma](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-oklahoma-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Oklahoma to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires and straight-line winds from March 14–21, 2025. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Cleveland, Creek, Lincoln, Logan, Oklahoma, Pawnee and Payne counties. Assistance can include grants for
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Nebraska](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-nebraska-5/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Nebraska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm and straight-line winds from March 18-19, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Texas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-texas-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Texas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding from March 26–28, 2025. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kansas-5/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Kansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm, straight-line winds, flooding and wildfires from March 14-19, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Missouri](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-missouri-3/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from March 30 – April 8, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Mississippi](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-mississippi-7/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Mississippi to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from March 14-15, 2025. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Covington, Grenada, Issaquena, Itawamba, Jefferson Davis, Leflore, Marion, Montgomery, Pike, Smith
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Iowa](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-iowa-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Iowa to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm on March 19, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency
- [HUD: More Than $10 Million Announced to House Families and Youth and Promote Self-Sufficiency](https://www.learncra.com/hud-more-than-10-million-to-house-families-and-youth-and-promote-self-sufficiency-announced/) - Funding Helps Keep Families Housed and Provides a Path to Housing Stability for Youth as part of National Foster Care Month Under the leadership of Secretary Scott Turner, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded more than $10 million in Family Unification Program (FUP) voucher assistance funding for youth and families who
- [FEMA: In-Person Trainings Resume at National Schoolhouses to Strengthen State and Local Government's Ability to Respond to Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/fema-in-person-trainings-resume-at-national-schoolhouses-to-strengthen-state-and-local-goverments-ability-to-repsond-to-disaster/) - FEMA announced today that in-person training will resume at three national schoolhouses in early June—the Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP) in Anniston, Ala., the National Fire Academy (NFA) and the National Disaster and Emergency Management University (NDEMU) in Emmitsburg, Md. In-person training was paused in March of 2025 following President Trump’s Executive Order 14222, Implementing the
- [FEMA: $360 Million Made Available to Communities to Increase Number of Trained Firefighters and Keep Communities Safe](https://www.learncra.com/fema-360-million-made-available-to-communities-to-increase-number-of-trained-firefighters-and-keep-communities-safe/) - Additional $36 Million to be Made Available for Research to Improve Firefighter Health and Safety Under the leadership of President Trump, states and localities will be empowered to manage disasters and emergencies. These fire grant programs align with that vision by helping communities build the response capabilities they need to keep their citizens and communities safe.
- [SBA: Agency Launches Onshoring Portal to Help Small Business Identify U.S. Manufacturers and Producers](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-launches-onshoring-portal-to-help-small-business-identify-u-s-manufacturers-and-producers/) - New Tool Connects Small Businesses to Network of more than 1 Million Domestic Suppliers Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), announced the launch of the Make Onshoring Great Again Portal, a free tool designed to help small businesses identify U.S. manufacturers and producers. With a database of more than 1 million American suppliers,
- [SBA: Agency Overhauls Community Advantage Small Business Lending Company Loan Program for Underserved Commuities and Mission-Based Lenders](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-overhauls-community-advantage-small-business-lending-company-loan-program-for-underserved-commuities-and-mission-based-lenders/) - Agency Ends Expansion of “Mission Based” Community Advantage Loans Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced an overhaul of the Community Advantage Small Business Lending Company (SBLC) program – a Biden-era program designed to grant government-backed 7(a) loans to “underserved communities” through “mission-based lenders.” As with other Biden-era schemes, lax oversight of the program has resulted
- [HUD: Secretary Turner and DOI Secretary Burgum Visit Underutilized Federal Land for Affordable Housing Development in Southern Nevada](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-and-doi-secretary-burgum-visit-underutilized-federal-land-for-affordable-housing-development-in-southern-nevada/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner and U.S. Department of Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum visited Southern Nevada to further the discussion about increasing affordable housing opportunities through development of underutilized federal land. Secretary Turner and Secretary Burgum were welcomed by Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo and Representative Mark Amodei (R-N.V.).
- [OCC: Deputy Comptroller for Community and Industry Relations Announced](https://www.learncra.com/occ-deputy-comptroller-for-community-and-industry-relations-announced/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced Andrew Moss as the Deputy Comptroller for Community and Industry Relations, effective June 2. “Andrew’s strong leadership, extensive experience in financial inclusion, and dedication to community and industry partnerships will strengthen the agency’s critical outreach and community development activities,” said Acting Comptroller of the
- [ABA: ABA and 52 State Bankers Associations to Senate: Durbin-Marshall Credit Card Mandate Should Not be Attached to GENIUS Act](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-and-52-state-bankers-associations-to-senate-durbin-marshall-credit-card-mandate-should-not-be-attached-to-genius-act/) - In a new letter to the Senate today, the American Bankers Association and 52 state bankers associations representing banks of every size expressed strong opposition to the Durbin-Marshall credit card mandate being attached as an amendment to the GENIUS Act or any other legislative vehicle. The letter builds upon the chorus of strong and united industry opposition
- [ABA: Financial Trades Express Strong Opposition to Misguided Durbin-Marshall Credit Card Mandate Being Attached to GENIUS Act](https://www.learncra.com/aba-financial-trades-express-strong-opposition-to-misguided-durbin-marshall-credit-card-mandate-being-attached-to-genius-act/) - In a new letter sent to Majority Leader Thune, Minority Leader Schumer and the entire Senate today, the American Bankers Association, America’s Credit Unions, Association of Military Banks of America, Bank Policy Institute, Consumer Bankers Association, Defense Credit Union Council, Independent Community Bankers of America, Electronic Payments Coalition, Mid-Size Bank Coalition of America, and National Bankers Association
- [ABA: ABA and 52 State Bankers Associations Strongly Oppose Attaching Credit Card Rate Caps to GENIUS Act](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-and-52-state-bankers-associations-strongly-oppose-attaching-credit-card-rate-caps-to-genius-act/) - In a new letter to the Senate today, the American Bankers Association and 52 state bankers associations representing banks of every size expressed strong opposition to any effort to attach the 10 Percent Credit Card Interest Rate Cap Act as a poison-pill amendment to the unrelated GENIUS Act or any other legislative vehicle. The associations outlined why
- [OCC: Conditional Approval Announced for Capital One, National Association to Acquire Discover Bank](https://www.learncra.com/occ-conditional-approval-announced-for-captial-one-national-association-to-acquire-discover-bank/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced today that it has conditionally approved the merger of Discover Bank, Greenwood, Delaware, into Capital One, National Association, McLean, Virginia. The OCC conducted a fulsome review of the application submitted March 21, 2024, to ensure all statutory and regulatory requirements have been met. The approval
- [Treasury: Publication of Interim Final Rule Announced Removing Beneficial Ownership Reporting Requirements for U.S. Companies and U.S. Persons](https://www.learncra.com/treaury-publication-of-interim-final-rule-announced-removing-beneficial-ownership-reporting-requirements-for-u-s-companies-and-u-s-persons/) - The Treasury Department announces today the formal publication of the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) interim final rule that removes the requirement for U.S. companies and U.S. persons to report beneficial ownership information (BOI) to FinCEN under the Corporate Transparency Act and narrows the scope of the rule to foreign reporting companies. This publication in the Federal
- [Census Bureau: Community Resilience Estimates for Puerto Rico Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-community-resilience-estimates-for-puerto-rico-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released the 2023 Community Resilience Estimates for Puerto Rico, which include population estimates by level of social vulnerability to disasters for the commonwealth, municipios and census tracts. The updated interactive tool provides users with an easy-to-use interface to quickly identify and map neighborhoods with “low,” “medium” and “high” social vulnerability. The tool also
- [Agencies Issue Host State Loan-to-Deposit Ratios](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-host-state-loan-to-deposit-ratios-5/) - Federal bank regulatory agencies today jointly issued updated host state loan-to-deposit ratios, as required by law. Each respective host state loan-to-deposit ratio shows the ratio of total loans in a state to total deposits in the state for all banks that have that state as their home state. These ratios replace those issued in May 2024.
- [ICBA: ICBA Thanks House Ways and Means Committee for Including Community Bank Legislative Priorities in Tax Proposal](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-thanks-house-ways-and-means-committee-for-including-community-bank-legislative-priorities-in-tax-proposal/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on the House Ways and Means Committee’s release of its “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” legislative package. “ICBA and the nation’s community bankers thank Chairman Jason Smith and the members of the House Ways and Means Committee for their work
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Arkansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-arkansas-4/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Arkansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and tornadoes from March 14–15, 2025. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Greene, Hot Spring, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, Sharp and Stone counties. Assistance can include grants
- [FEMA: Kentuckians in 24 More Counties Now Eligible To Apply for FEMA Assistance Following April Severe Storms](https://www.learncra.com/fema-kentuckians-in-24-more-counties-now-eligible-to-apply-for-fema-assistance-following-april-severe-storms/) - Twenty-four additional counties in the Commonwealth of Kentucky have been added to the major disaster declaration for Kentucky’s severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides, and mudslides and flooding that began April 2 and continuing. Homeowners and renters with disaster damage in Breckinridge, Bullitt, Calloway, Daviess, Garrard, Grayson, Hancock, Hart, Henderson, Henry, Jefferson, LaRue, Lincoln, McLean, Meade, Muhlenberg, Nelson,
- [Census Bureau: Population Growth Reported in 2024 Across Cities and Towns in All U.S. Regions](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-population-growth-reported-in-2024-across-cities-and-towns-in-all-u-s-regions/) - Cities of all sizes grew on average from 2023 to 2024 with Southern and Western cities experiencing accelerated growth. Topping the list of fastest-growing cities was Princeton, Texas with a remarkable 30.6% growth rate, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Vintage 2024 estimates released today. New York City, Houston and Los Angeles saw the greatest numeric gains
- [HUD: More Than $1.1 Billion Announced for Affordable Housing in Tribal Communities](https://www.learncra.com/hud-more-than-1-1-billion-announced-for-affordable-housing-in-tribal-communities/) - Today, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced more than $1.1 billion in Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG) funding for eligible Native American Tribes, Alaska Native Villages, and Tribally Designated Housing Entities (TDHEs) to carry out affordable housing activities in Indian Country. “From day one, HUD has been engaged on
- [FDIC: Office of the Ombudsman Publishes 2024 Annual Report of Activities](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-office-of-the-ombudsman-publishes-2024-annual-report-of-activities/) - Summary: The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s (FDIC) Office of the Ombudsman today published a report highlighting its activities and the services provided to stakeholders during 2024. The Office of the Ombudsman is a resource for bankers and other stakeholders seeking an independent, neutral, and confidential liaison for informally discussing disagreements with findings or conclusions of
- [HUD: Disaster Aid and Financial Flexibility Delivered to Virginia Residents Impacted by Winter Storms and Flooding](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-financial-flexibility-delivered-to-virginia-residents-impacted-by-winter-storms-and-flooding/) - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of Federal disaster assistance to the Commonwealth of Virginia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe winter storms and flooding from Feb. 10-18, 2025. President Trump issued a Major Disaster Declaration on April 4, 2025 for the Commonwealth of
- [CFPB: Agency Announces It Will Not Prioritize Enforcement Actions Related to Buy Now, Pay Later Loans](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-agency-announces-it-will-not-priortize-enforcement-actions-related-to-buy-now-pay-later-loans/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is announcing today that it will not prioritize enforcement actions taken on the basis of the Truth in Lending (Regulation Z); Use of Digital User Accounts to Access Buy Now, Pay Later Loans, 89 Fed. Reg. 47,068 (May 31, 2024) (“Buy Now, Pay Later”). The Bureau will instead keep its
- [OCC: Request for Information on Community Bank Digitalization Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-request-for-information-on-community-bank-digitalization-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today issued a request for information (RFI) on the key challenges and barriers faced by community banks in the adoption and implementation of digital banking solutions. New and emerging technologies can be important tools for community banks to meet customer demand, increase revenue, improve efficiencies, and
- [CDFI Fund: Acceptance of New Community Development Entity Certification Applications Will Pause on June 2, 2025](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-acceptance-of-new-community-development-entity-certification-applications-will-pause-on-june-2-2025/) - Beginning June 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) will pause acceptance of new applications for certification as a Community Development Entity (CDE). The CDFI Fund will implement this “blackout” period to allow the CDFI Fund to review and plan for possible policy and system improvements to streamline
- [ABA: ABA Applauds CFPB Withdrawal of Regulatory Guidance](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-cfpb-withdrawal-of-regulatory-guidance/) - "ABA has long expressed concern about the CFPB’s issuance of ‘guidance’ to advance its regulatory policy agenda, and we welcome the CFPB’s decision to withdraw a substantial amount of that guidance today. While banks welcome guidance that helps them understand and comply with the law, too often in the past the CFPB has characterized something as guidance
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges Lawmakers to Ensure Community Bank Concerns Are Addressed in GENIUS Act Before Any Senate Vote](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-lawmakers-to-ensure-community-bank-concerns-are-addressed-in-genius-act-before-any-senate-vote/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement ahead of a scheduled Senate vote on the GENIUS Act, which would establish a federal regulatory framework for stablecoins. “On behalf of the nation’s community bankers, ICBA urges the Senate to ensure the GENIUS Act provides regulatory clarity while
- [ICBA: Latest ThinkTECH Accelerator Cohort Announced](https://www.learncra.com/icba-latest-thinktech-accelerator-cohort-announced/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) today announced the selected companies for its ninth ICBA ThinkTECH Accelerator program (AP9). In market May 19 - July 25, the solutions represented in the second cohort of 2025 cover a broad range of key areas critical in helping community bankers meet a wide range of customer needs.
- [SBA: Agency Celebrates National Small Business Week Following White House Proclamation](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-celebrates-national-small-business-week-following-white-house-proclamation/) - Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), joined the nation in recognizing National Small Business Week after President Donald J. Trump issued a formal proclamation(Link is external) declaring that the week would take place May 4-10, 2025. “This National Small Business Week, we honor the vital role that America’s entrepreneurs and job creators play in
- [HUD: $1.8 Million Provided to Support Youth Aging Out of Foster Care](https://www.learncra.com/hud-1-8-million-provided-to-support-youth-aging-out-of-foster-care/) - Assistance provided on anniversary of First Lady Melania Trump's BE BEST initiative as part of National Foster Care Month and a continuation of HUD’s successful Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) program U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner, in collaboration with First Lady of the United States Melania Trump, today announced
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-111/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in February 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting
- [OCC: Interim Final Rule on Bank Mergers Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-interim-final-rule-on-bank-mergers-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today adopted an interim final rule amending its 2024 final rule related to its regulations for business combinations involving national banks and federal savings associations. The OCC also rescinded its 2024 policy statement on its review of applications under the Bank Merger Act. The interim final
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller of the Currency Discusses Agency Priorities](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-of-the-currency-discusses-agency-priorities/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood today discussed agency priorities at the Building Societies Annual Conference in Birmingham, England. In his remarks, Acting Comptroller Hood highlighted the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s work to reduce regulatory burden, improve financial inclusion, support innovations in financial technology, and digital assets in the federal
- [OCC: Agency Clarifies Bank Authority to Engage in Crypto-Asset Custody and Execution Services](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-clarifies-bank-authority-to-engage-in-crypto-asset-custody-and-execution-services/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today clarified permissible bank activities related to crypto-asset custody and execution services. The OCC published Interpretive Letter 1184 to confirm that national banks and federal savings associations may buy and sell assets held in custody at the customer’s direction and are permitted to outsource to third
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds Signing of Resolution to Overturn Flawed CFPB Overdraft Rule](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-signing-of-resolution-to-overturn-flawed-cfpb-overdraft-rule/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on President Donald Trump’s signing of a Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s final rule on overdraft services. “ICBA and the nation’s community banks commend President Trump and Congress for enacting this critical resolution
- [CFPB: Agency Will Not Prioritize Enforcement or Supervisory Actions of Section 1071 Small Business Lending Requirements](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-agency-will-not-priortize-enforcement-or-supervisory-actions-with-section-1071-small-business-lending-requirements/) - CFPB Keeps Its Enforcement and Supervision Resources Focused on Pressing Threats to Consumers The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is announcing today that, with respect to the regulation titled Small Business Lending Under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (Regulation B), implementing Section 1071 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, 88 Fed. Reg.
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kentucky](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kentucky-5/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides beginning on April 2, 2025, and continuing. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin,
- [SBA: 2025 National Small Business Week Virtual Summit Agenda Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-2025-national-small-business-week-virtual-summit-agenda-announced/) - SCORE, the Nation’s Largest Network of Volunteer Business Mentors, Co-Hosts Virtual Summit Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced the agenda for the National Small Business Week Virtual Summit, a free online event that will be held May 6-7. Registration is required(Link is external). The Virtual Summit, co-sponsored by SCORE(Link is external), will feature more than a dozen educational workshops led
- [FHFA: House Price Index Up 0.1 Percent in February 2025; Up 3.9 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-up-0-1-percent-in-february-2025-up-3-9-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices rose 0.1 percent in February, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 3.9 percent from February 2024 to February 2025. The previously reported 0.2 percent price growth in January was revised upward to 0.3 percent. For the nine census divisions, seasonally adjusted monthly home price
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller of the Currency Discusses Artificial Intelligence](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-of-the-currency-discusses-artificial-intelligence/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood today discussed the role of artificial intelligence in financial services in recorded remarks at the National Fair Housing Alliance’s Responsible AI Symposium. In his remarks, Acting Comptroller Hood highlighted the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s (OCC) work to ensure AI and other technologies are used
- [CDFI Fund: Virtual TLR Office Hours for General CDFI Recertification Applicants Announced](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-virtual-tlr-office-hours-for-general-cdfi-recertification-applicants-announced/) - The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) will now host four (4) one-hour virtual office hour sessions to help CDFI Certification Applicants understand how to complete the Transaction Level Report (TLR). All organizations are required to submit a TLR as part of their CDFI Certification reapplication and then on an annual basis as part
- [CDFI Fund: Upcoming CDFI Certification Deadline and Service Request Cutoff Date Announced](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-upcoming-cdfi-certification-deadline-and-service-request-cutoff-date-announced/) - Last June, the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) released the General Reapplication Submission Deadlines for the CDFI Certification Application for all Certified CDFIs. The first reapplication submission window, Window 1, closes on May 31, 2025. To avoid delays or loss of Certification, organizations must act now to prepare their submissions and resolve outstanding issues. Cut-off for
- [Treasury: Readout Provided for Treasury Roundtable on Opportunities to Lower Costs and Maintain Availability of Homeowners Insurance](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-readout-provided-for-treasury-roundtable-on-opportunities-to-lower-costs-and-maintain-availability-of-homeowners-insurance/) - Today, the Federal Insurance Office (FIO) at the U.S. Department of the Treasury hosted a roundtable discussion with representatives from the insurance sector, including insurers, reinsurers, brokers, state regulators, resilience and consumer groups, and academics to discuss ways to lower costs and maintain availability of homeowners insurance as part of the Trump Administration’s efforts to
- [ICBA: Following Latest Credit Union Acquisition of a Community Bank, ICBA Continues Call for Taxing Largest Credit Unions](https://www.learncra.com/icba-following-latest-credit-union-acquisition-of-a-community-bank-icba-continues-call-for-taxing-largest-credit-unions/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement following the latest acquisition of a tax-paying community bank by a tax-exempt credit union. “With the latest interstate acquisition of a tax-paying community bank by tax-exempt credit unions extending into Montana for the first time, it is time for the increasing
- [ICBA: ICBA Honors Community Banks’ Role in Powering Small Business Success During Small Business Month](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-honors-community-banks-role-in-powering-small-business-success-during-small-business-month/) - In recognition of National Small Business Month this May, the Independent Community Bankers of America® (ICBA) is celebrating the critical role community banks play in supporting the nation’s small businesses—the backbone of the American economy. Community banks fund more than 60% of small business loans, helping entrepreneurs launch, grow, and sustain their businesses. Their relationship-based
- [SBA: New Legislation Will Double SBA Loan Limits and Supercharge Return of Made in America](https://www.learncra.com/sba-new-legislation-will-double-sba-loan-limits-and-supercharge-return-of-made-in-america/) - Administrator Loeffler Applauds Congressional Proposal to Increase Capital for Small Manufacturers Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) applauded Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Congressman Roger Williams (R-TX) for introducing new legislation(Link is external) that will double the individual loan limit for 7(a) and 504 small business manufacturing loans from $5 million to $10 million.
- [SBA: New Grant Funding to Support Made in America Manufacturing Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-new-grant-funding-to-support-made-in-america-manufacturing-announced/) - Grant opportunity will award up to $1.1 million in funding to three eligible applicants Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a new funding opportunity as part of its Made in America Manufacturing Initiative, the agency’s targeted effort to restore the U.S industrial base, bring back American jobs, and promote our nation’s economic dominance and
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller of the Currency Discusses Financial Literacy](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-of-the-currency-discusses-financial-literacy/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood discussed the importance of financial literacy at the U.S. Department of Treasury Financial Literacy Roundtable on April 30. The roundtable discussion, Empowering Americans in Underserved Communities through Financial Literacy, focused on ways to empower Americans in underserved rural and Native communities through financial literacy and education. In his
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations for 25 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations Released](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-for-25-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations-released/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of April 1, 2025, through April 30, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [ABA: Submissions Open for 13th Annual Community Commitment Awards](https://www.learncra.com/aba-submissions-open-for-13th-annual-community-commitment-awards/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation is now accepting submissions for its 13th annual Community Commitment Awards, ABA’s highest honors for extraordinary community engagement. Banks of all sizes are encouraged to enter their most successful community initiatives for the awards, which recognize innovative, high-impact bank programs that improve the quality of life for the communities they serve.
- [ICBA: ICBA Continues Call to End Tax Breaks for Largest Credit Unions Following Latest Community Bank Acquisition](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-continues-call-to-end-tax-breaks-for-largest-credit-unions-following-latest-community-bank-acquisition/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement following the latest acquisition of a tax-paying community bank by a tax-exempt credit union. “Following last year’s record number of community bank acquisitions by tax-exempt credit unions, the latest deal further demonstrates why the growing skepticism of credit union tax and
- [SBA: Agency Reinstates Robust Loan Underwriting Criteria for 7(a) Program to End Era of Irresponsible Lending](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-reinstates-robust-loan-underwriting-criteria-for-7a-program-to-end-era-of-irresponsible-lending/) - Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced it will eliminate a package of Biden-era policies which dramatically reduced underwriting standards within the 7(a) loan program, sacrificing its financial integrity and driving up taxpayer liability. Under the leadership of Administrator Kelly Loeffler, the SBA is restoring robust rules to end the era of reckless lending – preserving access
- [Agencies Withdraw Joint Statements on Crypto-Assets](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-withdraw-joint-statements-on-crypto-assets/) - Today, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, together with the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (collectively, the agencies), has withdrawn two joint statements regarding banking organizations’ crypto-asset-related activities. This action is intended to provide clarity that banking organizations may engage in permissible crypto-asset activities and provide products and services to persons and firms engaged
- [Federal Reserve: Withdrawal of Guidance for Banks Related to Their Crypto-Asset and Dollar Token Activities and Related to Its Expectations for These Activities Announced](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-withdrawal-of-guidance-for-banks-related-to-their-crypto-asset-and-dollar-token-activities-and-related-to-its-expectations-for-these-activities-announced/) - The Federal Reserve Board on Thursday announced the withdrawal of guidance for banks related to their crypto-asset and dollar token activities and related changes to its expectations for these activities. These actions ensure the Board's expectations remain aligned with evolving risks and further support innovation in the banking system. The Board is rescinding its 2022 supervisory
- [ABA: Treasury Secretary Bessent Partners with ABA Foundation to Promote “Teach Children to Save Day"](https://www.learncra.com/aba-treasury-secretary-bessent-partners-with-aba-foundation-to-promote-teach-children-to-save-day/) - Secretary Bessent records video message for students, teachers and banker volunteers participating in the ABA Foundation's 28th annual Teach Children to Save Day Demonstrating his strong commitment to promoting financial literacy, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is partnering with the ABA Foundation in support of its annual Teach Children to Save program. As part of Teach Children
- [HUD: Secretary Turner Announces Newly Available Funds to Expand the Tribal HUD-VASH Program](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-announces-newly-available-funds-to-expand-the-tribal-hud-vash-program/) - Additional funding builds on successful rental assistance program for Native American veterans U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner today announced $2.2 million in new available funding under the Tribal HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) program. This program delivers critical rental assistance for Native American veterans who are – or who are risk
- [HUD: HUD and GSA Announce Collaborative Effort to Identify New Headquarters for U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development](https://www.learncra.com/hud-hud-and-gsa-announce-collaborative-effort-to-identify-new-headquarters-for-u-s-department-of-housing-and-urban-development/) - Secretary Turner pushes for more appropriately-sized and financially sound HUD HQ Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced the addition of HUD headquarters to the accelerated disposition list in order to engage the market and explore HUD’s relocation options. Currently, HUD is located in
- [FDIC: Approach to Resolution Planning for Large Banks Modified](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-approach-to-resolution-planning-for-large-banks-modified/) - The FDIC today took action to modify its approach to insured depository institution (IDI) resolution planning. The purpose of this action is to focus the IDI resolution planning process on the operational information most relevant for the FDIC to (1) resolve a large bank through a weekend sale or (2) operate the institution for a
- [ABA: Trade Groups Welcome Court Decision Vacating CFPB's Credit Card Late Fee Rule](https://www.learncra.com/aba-trade-groups-welcome-court-decision-vacating-cfpbs-credit-card-late-fee-rule/) - The American Bankers Association, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, Longview Chamber of Commerce, Consumer Bankers Association and Texas Association of Business issued the following statement after today’s ruling from the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas approving our joint motion with the CFPB for consent judgment vacating
- [SBA: Full List of 2025 National Small Business Week Co-sponsors Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-full-list-of-2025-national-small-business-week-cosponsors-announced/) - SCORE, the Nation’s Largest Network of Volunteer Business Mentors, Will Co-Host Virtual Summit Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced its cosponsors for the 2025 National Small Business Week, taking place May 4-10. SCORE, mentors to America’s small businesses and an SBA resource partner, will co-host this year’s National Small Business Week Virtual Summit, a free online event May
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller of the Currency Discusses Agency Priorities](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-of-the-currency-discussion-agency-priorities/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood today discussed strategic areas of focus for the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) in remarks at the Exchequer Club. In his remarks, Acting Comptroller Hood detailed the OCC’s efforts to reduce regulatory burden; promote financial inclusion; embrace bank-fintech partnerships; and expand responsible bank activities
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges OCC to Preserve Dedicated Supervision for Community Banks](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-occ-to-preserve-dedicated-supervision-for-community-bank/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement in opposition to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s announced decision to merge its community, midsize, and large bank supervision functions into a single line of business. “As policymakers continue to call for stronger safeguards in financial oversight,
- [ICBA: ICBA Urges End to Tax Exemption for Billion-Dollar Credit Unions After Another Community Bank Acquisition](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-urges-end-to-tax-exemption-for-billion-dollar-credit-unions-after-another-community-bank-acquisition/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement in response to the latest acquisition of a tax-paying community bank by a tax-exempt credit union. As Congress considers tax reform, ICBA continues to call for eliminating the federal tax exemption for credit unions with more than $1 billion in assets
- [Census Bureau: Data Collection Begins for New Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-data-collection-begins-for-new-household-trends-and-outlook-pulse-survey/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today announced that data collection for the experimental Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey (HTOPS) is expanding to almost 30,000 households. This expanded sample size will allow for data to be released at a subnational level. Launched in January, HTOPS is a successor to the Household Pulse Survey (HPS). HTOPS will continue the strong tradition of the
- [OCC: Organization Structure Changes Announced to Combine Midsize and Community Bank Supervision and Large Bank Supervision Functions Effective June 2, 2025](https://www.learncra.com/occ-organization-structure-changes-announced-to-combine-midsize-and-community-bank-supervision-and-large-bank-supervision-functions-effective-june-2-2025/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced changes to its organizational structure to ensure its approach to supervision evolves to better address today’s challenges, align similar functions within the agency, and leverage opportunities for efficiencies. The OCC will combine the Midsize and Community Bank Supervision and Large Bank Supervision functions to
- [OCC: Agency Releases Letter on Information Security Incident to Supervised Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-releases-letter-on-information-security-incident-to-supervised-institutions/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today publicly released a letter sent to its supervised institutions regarding unauthorized access to OCC email systems. The OCC provided public notice of the unauthorized access and its designation as a major information security incident on April 8, 2025. The OCC is committed to taking all actions to
- [Agencies Take Action on Appraisal Requirements in Area Affected by California Wildfires and Straight-Line Winds](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-take-action-on-appraisal-requirements-in-area-affected-by-california-wildfires-and-straight-line-winds/) - To help facilitate recovery efforts from wildfires and straight-line wind damage in Los Angeles County, California this year, four federal financial institution regulatory agencies today temporarily paused certain appraisal requirements for real estate-related transactions. This action is expected to allow banks and credit unions to work with families and businesses without obtaining an appraisal. Banks
- [ABA: New Survey Finds Americans Overwhelmingly Support Financial Education in Schools](https://www.learncra.com/aba-new-survey-finds-americans-overwhelmingly-support-financial-education-in-schools/) - A new survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Bankers Association Foundation found U.S. adults strongly support youth financial education being taught in schools. According to the data released today, nearly nine-in-10 consumers (87%) agree that financial concepts should be taught in high school and 72% believe they would be better off
- [findCRA to Share Insights on Embracing CRA Technology at the 21st Annual Wolters Kluwer CRA & Fair Lending Colloquium in Nashville](https://www.learncra.com/findcra-to-share-insights-on-embracing-cra-technology-at-the-21st-annual-wolters-kluwer-cra-fair-lending-colloquium-in-nashville/) - findCRA will present an educational session on Community Reinvestment Act best practices in conjunction with the annual CRA & Fair Lending Colloquium, hosted by Wolters Kluwer, on Wednesday, November 8, 2017 at the Omni Nashville. The breakfast session will focus on how banks of all sizes can benefit from embracing new technologies and data-driven strategies
- [The World's Greatest Toy Store May Disappear: CRA and the Retail Workforce](https://www.learncra.com/the-worlds-greatest-toy-store-may-disapper-cra-and-the-retail-workforce/) - What happens when the store of your childhood dreams declares bankruptcy? More importantly, what is the impact on its workforce and how can CRA help?
- [Census Bureau: New U.S. Population Estimates by Age and Sex Released](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-u-s-population-estimates-by-age-and-sex-released/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today released a downloadable file containing estimates of the nation’s resident population by sex and single year of age as of July 1, 2024, which is available at www.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest.html. In the coming months, the Census Bureau will release additional population estimates for cities and towns as well as population estimates by age, sex, race
- [SBA: Agency Highlights Range of New Measures to Stop Fraud](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-highlights-range-of-new-measures-to-stop-fraud/) - Reforms will end loans to illegal aliens, children, and deceased Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) highlighted several new verification measures within its loan application process to strengthen protections against fraud and ensure its programs only benefit eligible American small business owners. The changes were implemented with the help of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE),
- [HUD: Secretary Scott Turner Commemorates Fair Housing Month](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-scott-turner-commemorates-fair-housing-month/) - Championing Faith, Freedom, and Fair Housing for all Americans U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner today recognized April as Fair Housing Month, unveiling this year’s theme: “Faith, Freedom, & Fair Housing.” Secretary Turner marked the historical milestone with a message reaffirming HUD’s responsibility to uphold the Fair Housing Act and
- [CFPB: Regulatory Relief Offered From Registration Requirements for Small Loan Providers](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-regulatory-relief-offered-from-registration-requirements-for-small-loan-providers/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is announcing today that, with respect to the regulation titled Registry of Nonbank Covered Persons Subject to Certain Agency and Court Orders, 89 Fed. Reg. 56028 (July 8, 2024) (codified at 12 CFR part 1092), it will not prioritize enforcement or supervision actions with regard to entities that do not
- [CDFI Fund: CDFI Certification Application "Hot Topics" Webinar Scheduled for April 17th](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-cdfi-certification-application-hot-topics-webinar-scheduled-for-april-17th/) - The CDFI Fund’s monthly Certification webinars, which are intended to serve as a forum for potential CDFI Certification Applicants, Certified CDFIs, and other CDFI Certification stakeholders to ask questions and discuss CDFI Certification and the CDFI Certification process, have been scheduled for calendar year 2025. The webinars are open to the general public and do
- [OCC: Bulletin Issued to Update OCC Contact Information for Certain Community Reinvestment Act, Fair Housing Act, and Equal Credit Opportunity Act Notices and Posters](https://www.learncra.com/occ-bulletin-issued-to-update-occ-contact-information-for-certain-community-reinvestment-act-fair-housing-act-and-equal-credit-opportunity-act-notices-and-posters/) - Summary This bulletin informs banks1 of the appropriate names and addresses for notices required by the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and for posters required by the Fair Housing Act. Banks should make the appropriate changes to their notices and posters, if necessary, within 90 days of this bulletin’s date of issuance.
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds House Passage of Resolution to Overturn Flawed CFPB Overdraft Rule](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-house-passage-of-resolution-to-overturn-flawed-cfpb-overdraft-rule/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on House passage of a Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s final rule on overdraft services. “ICBA and the nation’s community banks commend the House for passing this critical resolution to overturn the CFPB’s
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Virginia](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-virginia-4/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Virginia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe winter storms and flooding from Feb. 10-18, 2025. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing
- [HUD: Foreclosure Relief Extended to More than One Million FHA Borrowers Recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton](https://www.learncra.com/hud-foreclosure-relief-extended-to-more-than-one-million-fha-borrowers-recovering-from-hurricanes-helene-and-milton/) - Second extension of foreclosure moratoriums provides flexibility for disaster impacted communities Today, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) is extending by an additional 90 days its existing foreclosure moratoriums on FHA-insured single family mortgages in the Presidentially-Declared Major Disaster Areas (PDMDAs) resulting from Hurricanes
- [OCC: Agency Notifies Congress of Incident Involving Email System](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-notifies-congress-of-incident-involving-email-system/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today notified Congress of a major information security incident, as required by the Federal Information Security Modernization Act. This finding is the result of internal and independent third-party reviews of OCC emails and email attachments that were subject to unauthorized access. On February 11, 2025, the
- [CDFI Fund: Updated Calendar Announced for CDFI Certification Monthly Webinars](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-updated-calendar-announced-for-cdfi-certification-monthly-webinars/) - Additional dates & subject matter briefings added to the calendar The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund’s (CDFI Fund’s) monthly Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Certification webinars are intended to serve as a forum for potential CDFI Certification Applicants, Certified CDFIs, and other CDFI Certification stakeholders to ask questions and discuss CDFI Certification and the CDFI
- [ABA: ABA Applauds House Disapproval of CFPB Overdraft Rule](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-house-disapproval-of-cfpb-overdraft-rule/) - “We applaud the House’s passage of the Congressional Review Act resolution overturning the CFPB’s eleventh-hour overdraft rule, and we thank House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill and Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott for their leadership on this important issue. Consumers have indicated time and time again that they value and appreciate this highly regulated service
- [ABA: New Consumer Polling Data Finds Americans Oppose Policy Changes that Threaten Credit Card Reward Programs](https://www.learncra.com/aba-new-consumer-polling-data-finds-americans-oppose-policy-changes-that-threaten-credit-card-reward-programs/) - A new survey conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the American Bankers Association found that a strong majority of U.S. consumers are happy with their credit cards and do not want the government to interfere with their card’s rewards programs. The survey, unveiled on the second day of ABA’s 2025 Washington Summit, also gauged consumers’
- [ABA: National Survey Finds Consumers Happy with their Bank, Applaud Bank Fraud Protection Efforts](https://www.learncra.com/aba-national-survey-finds-consumers-happy-with-their-bank-applaud-bank-fraud-protection-efforts/) - Poll also finds strong majority of Americans view banking industry as highly competitive and a source of economic strength Nine in 10 Americans with a bank account (89%) say they are “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with their primary bank and 93% rate their bank’s customer service as “excellent,” “very good” or “good,” according to a
- [Treasury: Action Taken to Unleash Financial Sector and Unburden Small Businesses through Elimination of Unnecessary, Duplicative, and Costly Regulations](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-action-taken-to-unleash-financial-sector-and-unburden-small-businesses-through-elimination-of-unnecessary-duplicative-and-costly-regulations/) - Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury), including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), will take immediate action to eliminate 15 rules and guidance materials. This is in addition to two rules recently rescinded by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). The rules range from
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Arkansas](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-arkansas/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Arkansas to supplement response efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding beginning on April 2, 2025, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all federal disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Kentucky](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-kentucky-2/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement response efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding beginning on April 2, 2025, and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-110/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in January 2025. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting the
- [HUD and Census Bureau: New Residential Sales Report for February 2025 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/hud-and-census-bureau-new-residential-sales-report-for-febraury-2025-issued/) - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Census Bureau jointly announced the following new residential sales statistics for February 2025: New Home SalesSales of new single-family houses in February 2025 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 676,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau
- [HUD: New Agency Website Debuts Focused on High-Quality, Streamlined Service to American Public](https://www.learncra.com/hud-new-agency-webiste-debuts-focused-on-high-quality-streamlined-service-to-american-public/) - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner today announced the launch of a new, streamlined HUD.gov website that prioritizes the needs of the American public. “Providing the best and highest quality service to rural, tribal and urban communities means that critical resources online should be streamlined, concise and user-friendly,” Secretary Turner said. “The
- [ABA: Foundation Releases New Report on State Hold Laws and Elder Financial Exploitation Prevention](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-releases-new-report-on-state-hold-laws-and-elder-financial-exploitation-prevention/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation released a new report today on the use and impact of state laws that allow banks to delay transactions when they suspect financial exploitation of an older or vulnerable person. More than half (54.5%) of bank respondents in states with these “hold” laws have used them to prevent elder financial exploitation, according
- [Treasury: Meeting Held to Launch National Financial Literacy Month Collaboration](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-meeting-held-to-launch-national-financial-literacy-month-collaboration/) - Today, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met with John Hope Bryant, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Operation HOPE, to mark the start of National Financial Literacy Month and advance their shared commitment to financial empowerment for all Americans. The meeting centered on the Financial Literacy for All (FL4A) initiative—a national effort led by Bryant to
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds House Financial Services Committee for Advancing Three Pro-Community Bank Bills to Repeal 1071,  Promote De Novo Bank Formation, and Restrict Central Bank Digital Currency](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-house-financial-services-committee-for-advancing-three-pro-community-bank-bills-to-repeal-1071-promote-de-novo-bank-formation-and-restrict-central-bank-digital-currency/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) commended the House Financial Services Committee for advancing three ICBA-advocated bills to support community banks and the local communities they serve. “ICBA and the nation’s community banks commend the House Financial Services Committee for today’s votes to advance pro-community bank bills to repeal the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s
- [ICBA: ICBA Celebrates Community Banks Strengthening Local Economies During Community Banking Month in April](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-celebrates-community-banks-strengthening-local-economies-during-community-banking-month-in-april/) - In observance of Community Banking Month in April, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) is reminding Americans of the pivotal role community banks serve in bolstering local economies, supporting small businesses, and offering relationship-driven banking services. “Community banks fuel small businesses while building relationships that foster trust and support long-term growth in local communities
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Tennessee](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-emergency-declaration-for-tennessee-2/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Tennessee to supplement response efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding beginning on April 2 and continuing. The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations Released for 18 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-released-for-18-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of March 1, 2025, through March 31, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [OCC: Agency Promotes National Financial Literacy Month](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-promotes-national-financial-literacy-month/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) recognizes April as National Financial Literacy Month and encourages national banks and federal savings associations (collectively, banks) to support efforts to improve the financial literacy and financial health of their customers. Banks can promote financial literacy by supporting high-quality financial literacy education and resources and by
- [OCC: Agency Withdraws Principles for Climate-Related Financial Risk Management for Large Financial Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-withdraws-principles-for-climate-related-financial-risk-management-for-large-financial-institutions/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today withdrew its participation in the interagency principles for climate-related financial risk management for large financial institutions. “The principles providing guidance to banks for climate-related financial risk are overly burdensome and duplicative. The OCC’s existing guidance for banks to maintain a sound risk management framework applies
- [CFPB: 2024 HMDA Data on Mortgage Lending Now Available](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-2024-hmda-data-on-mortgage-lending-now-available/) - The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) Modified Loan Application Register (LAR) data for 2024 are now available on the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council's (FFIEC) HMDA Platform for approximately 4,898 HMDA filers. The published data contain loan-level information filed by financial institutions and modified to protect consumer privacy. To increase public accessibility, the annual loan-level LAR data
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds Agencies for Proposing to Rescind Harmful CRA Rule](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-agencies-for-proposing-to-rescind-harmful-cra-rule/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on today’s announcement that the federal banking regulators intend to issue a proposal to rescind the Community Reinvestment Act final rule issued in October 2023 and reinstate the CRA framework that existed prior to that final rule, in light of pending
- [FDIC: Process for Banks to Engage in Crypto-Related Activities Clarified](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-process-for-banks-to-engage-in-crypto-related-activities-clarified/) - Today, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) issued a Financial Institution Letter (FIL-7-2025) that provides new guidance for FDIC-supervised institutions engaging or seeking to engage in crypto-related activities. The new guidance, which rescinds FIL-16-2022, clarifies that FDIC-supervised institutions may engage in permissible crypto-related activities without receiving prior FDIC approval. The guidance affirms that FDIC-supervised institutions may
- [Agencies Announce Intent to Rescind 2023 CRA Final Rule](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-announce-intent-to-rescind-2023-cra-final-rule/) - The federal bank regulatory agencies today announced, in light of pending litigation, their intent to issue a proposal to both rescind the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) final rule issued in October 2023 and reinstate the CRA framework that existed prior to the October 2023 final rule. The agencies will continue to work together to promote
- [CFPB: Regulatory Relief Offered for Small Loan Providers](https://www.learncra.com/cfpb-regulatory-relief-offered-for-small-loan-providers/) - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is announcing today that, with respect to the Payday, Vehicle Title, and Certain High-Cost Installment Loans Regulation, it will not prioritize enforcement or supervision actions with regard to any penalties or fines associated with the Payment Withdrawal provisions and the Payment Disclosure provisions once they become operative on March 30,
- [ABA: Trade Groups Welcome Decision to Rescind 2023 CRA Final Rule](https://www.learncra.com/aba-trade-groups-welcome-decision-to-rescind-2023-cra-final-rule/) - The American Bankers Association, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Independent Community Bankers of America, Texas Bankers Association, Independent Bankers Association of Texas, Amarillo Chamber of Commerce and Longview Chamber of Commerce issued the following statement after federal banking agencies announced their intent to rescind the 2023 Community Reinvestment Act Final Rule: "We welcome today's announcement
- [HUD: Secretary Turner and DOI Secretary Burgum Announce Joint Task Force to Use Federal Lands for Affordable Housing](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-and-doi-secretary-burgum-announce-joint-task-force-to-use-federal-lands-for-affordable-housing/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner and U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum announced a Joint Task Force on Federal Land for Housing to identify underutilized federal lands suitable for residential development, streamline land transfer processes and promote policies that increase the availability of affordable housing. Read more in the
- [SBA: Dates Set for Free National Small Business Week Virtual Summit](https://www.learncra.com/sba-dates-set-for-free-national-small-business-week-virtual-summit/) - Summit will feature educational workshops, networking opportunities and information about federal resources Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration and SCORE(Link is external), mentors to America’s small businesses and an SBA resource partner, set the dates for the 2025 National Small Business Week virtual summit. The free two-day online event will take place May 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to
- [CDFI Fund: Reminders for March Annual Compliance, Certification and Reporting Obligations](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-reminders-for-march-annual-compliance-certification-and-reporting-obligations/) - Are you the Authorized Representative of either a Certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) or an organization that has received a Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) Award, Assistance and/or Allocation? If so, to ensure compliance with your Award, Assistance and/or Allocation Agreement(s), you must complete and submit the annual report(s) specified in these
- [HUD: Disaster Aid & Financial Flexibility Announced for Kentucky Residents Impacted by Natural Disasters](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-aid-financial-flexibility-announced-for-kentucky-residents-impacted-by-natural-disasters/) - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced the availability of federal disaster assistance to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from Feb. 14, 2025 and continuing. “The best way to respond in the face
- [HUD: Secretary Turner and DHS Secretary Noem Establish Partnership to End Illegal Alien Exploitation of Housing Programs](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-and-dhs-secretary-noem-establish-partnership-to-end-illegal-alien-exploitation-of-housing-programs/) - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner and U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem today signed the “American Housing Programs for American Citizens” Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), to end the wasteful misappropriation of taxpayer dollars to benefit illegal aliens instead of American citizens. As part of this new agreement, HUD
- [HUD: Disaster Recovery Process Streamlined with Universal Notice](https://www.learncra.com/hud-disaster-recovery-process-streamlined-with-universal-notice/) - Action will ensure efficient and effective delivery of critical funding for communities impacted by natural disasters U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner announced HUD is streamlining and simplifying its disaster recovery processes to deliver disaster assistance more quickly to Americans recovering from catastrophic events. HUD published an updated Community Development Block Grant
- [FHFA: House Price Index Up 0.2 Percent in January 2025; Up 4.8 Percent from Last Year](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-house-price-index-up-0-2-percent-in-january-2025-up-4-8-percent-from-last-year/) - U.S. house prices rose 0.2 percent in January, according to the U.S. Federal Housing (FHFA) seasonally adjusted monthly House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices rose 4.8 percent from January 2024 to January 2025. The previously reported 0.4 percent price growth in December was revised upward to 0.5 percent. For the nine census divisions, seasonally adjusted monthly home price
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller Discusses Financial Inclusion](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-discusses-financial-inclusion-3/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood today discussed financial inclusion in remarks at the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals’ Homeownership and Housing Policy Conference. Mr. Hood’s written remarks in support of his presentation discussed the work of the OCC’s Project REACh to support affordable homeownership. Related Links Remarks (PDF) Acting Comptroller of
- [OCC: Mortgage Performance for Fourth Quarter of 2024 Reported](https://www.learncra.com/occ-mortgage-performance-for-fourth-quarter-of-2024-reported/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) reported on the performance of first-lien mortgages in the federal banking system during the fourth quarter of 2024. The OCC Mortgage Metrics Report, Fourth Quarter 2024 showed that 97.3 percent of mortgages included in the report were current and performing at the end of the quarter, an increase
- [ABA:  ABA Welcomes White House Executive Order Phasing Out U.S. Treasury Paper Checks](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-welcomes-white-house-executive-order-phasing-out-u-s-treasury-paper-checks/) - “We welcome President Trump’s executive order mandating that the federal government cease issuing paper checks for all disbursements, including government benefits and tax refunds. Despite a continued decline in business and consumer use of checks, check fraud has continued to rise. That is why ABA and banks across the country launched the #PracticeSafeChecks campaign last October to
- [ABA: Bank Economists Note Credit Conditions to Soften for Consumers and Small Businesses Amid Heightened Economic Uncertainty](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-economists-note-credit-conditions-to-soften-for-consumers-and-small-businesses-amid-heightened-economic-uncertainty/) - Credit conditions are expected to weaken modestly over the next six months as businesses and consumers adopt a more cautious outlook amid heightened uncertainty, according to the American Bankers Association’s latest Credit Conditions Index released today. The latest summary of ABA’s Credit Conditions Index examines a suite of indices derived from the quarterly outlook for credit markets
- [ABA: Financial Trades Issue Joint Letter to Congress Stating that the Misguided Durbin-Marshall Bill will Harm Consumers, Small Businesses and Financial Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/aba-financial-trades-issue-joint-letter-to-congress-stating-that-the-misguided-durbin-marshall-bill-will-harm-consumers-small-businesses-and-financial-institutions/) - In a new letter filed today, the American Bankers Association, America’s Credit Unions, Association of Military Banks of America, Bank Policy Institute, Consumer Bankers Association, Defense Credit Union Council, Independent Community Bankers of America, Electronic Payments Coalition, Mid-Size Bank Coalition of America and National Bankers Association warned that any legislative initiatives to expand the power of the
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Oklahoma](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-oklahoma-6/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Oklahoma to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from Nov. 2-5, 2024. Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a
- [SBA: Agency-Wide Reorganization Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-agency-wide-reorganization-announced/) - SBA will restructure to eliminate wasteful spending, restore mission of empowering small businesses Today, pursuant to EO 14210(Link is external), the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced its plans for an agency-wide reorganization. To return to its founding mission of empowering small businesses, and to restore accountability to taxpayers, the agency will reduce its workforce by 43% –
- [OCC: Agency Ceases Examinations for Reputation Risk](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-ceases-examinations-for-reputation-risk/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced that it will no longer examine its regulated institutions for reputation risk and is removing references to reputation risk from its Comptroller’s Handbook booklets and guidance issuances. Today’s actions support the OCC’s mission and its supervisory objectives to ensure that banks have appropriate and
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds Senate Passage of Resolution to Overturn Flawed CFPB Overdraft Rule](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-senate-passage-of-resolution-to-overturn-flawed-cfpb-overdraft-rule/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement on the Senate’s passage of a Congressional Review Act resolution to overturn the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s final rule on overdraft services “ICBA and the nation’s community banks commend the Senate for passing Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott’s
- [SBA: Actions Initiated to Reverse Biden-Era Mismangement of Core 7(a) Lending Program](https://www.learncra.com/sba-actions-initiated-to-reverse-biden-era-mismangement-of-core-7a-lending-program/) - Waiver of $460M in Lender Fees Undermined Integrity of Program for Small Businesses and Taxpayers Today, as part of the work to reverse the gross financial mismanagement of the prior Administration, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced it has restored lender fees to its 7(a) loan program. Waiving lender fees was one of the Biden-era practices that
- [OCC: Acting Comptroller Encourages Innovation to Foster Financial Inclusion](https://www.learncra.com/occ-acting-comptroller-encourages-innovation-to-foster-financial-inclusion/) - Acting Comptroller of the Currency Rodney E. Hood today discussed financial inclusion in remarks at the National Community Reinvestment Coalition’s Just Economy Conference 2025. In his remarks, Mr. Hood encouraged innovative thinking to foster greater financial inclusion in economically disadvantaged communities for both consumers and small businesses, particularly using financial technology tools. He highlighted the
- [ABA:  ABA Applauds Senate Disapproval of CFPB’s Overdraft Rule](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-senate-disapproval-of-cfpbs-overdraft-rule/) - “We applaud today’s Senate passage of the Congressional Review Act resolution nullifying the CFPB’s unlawful overdraft rule and thank Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott for his leadership on this important issue. “Without access to overdraft protection, many Americans would be driven to less regulated and higher risk non-bank lenders to cover unexpected or emergency
- [ABA: New Survey Shows Strong Majority of Americans Value Overdraft Protection and Want It to Remain an Option](https://www.learncra.com/aba-new-survey-shows-strong-majority-of-americans-value-overdraft-protection-and-want-it-to-remain-an-option/) - As Congress considers resolutions nullifying the CFPB’s recent Overdraft Rule, new Morning Consult data shows how much Americans appreciate current overdraft protection programs With lawmakers considering Congressional Review Act resolutions that would nullify a controversial CFPB Overdraft rule that would effectively end overdraft protection as we know it, a new national survey conducted by Morning
- [SBA: 2025 National Small Business Week Program and Speciality Award Winners Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-2025-national-small-business-week-program-and-speciality-award-winners-announced/) - Administrator Loeffler to honor awardees at National Small Business Week ceremony in Washington, D.C. on May 5 Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced the national program and specialty award winners for SBA’s 2025 National Small Business Week, which will take place May 4-10, 2025. These awards recognize businesses and resource partners for their efforts in government contracting
- [Federal Reserve: Statement by Governor Bowman on Accepting Nomination as Vice Chair for Supervision](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-statement-by-governor-bowman-on-accepting-nomination-as-vice-chair-for-supervision/) - Statement by Governor Michelle W. Bowman: I would like to express my thanks to President Trump for nominating me as the Vice Chair for Supervision. I am grateful for the continued faith and confidence he has placed in me to fulfill this vital role. If confirmed, I will promote a safe and sound banking system
- [OCC: Fintech Business Model for a National Bank Conditionally Approved](https://www.learncra.com/occ-fintech-business-model-for-a-national-bank-conditionally-approved/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced conditional approval of the application for financial technology (fintech) company SmartBiz Loans to change the business model of CenTrust Bank, N.A., Northbrook, Illinois, upon its acquisition of CenTrust Bank, N.A. Upon acquisition, CenTrust Bank, N.A. was renamed SmartBiz Bank, N.A. CenTrust further applied to
- [SBA: 2025 National Small Business Week Will Take Place May 4-10](https://www.learncra.com/sba-2025-national-small-businss-week-will-take-place-may-4-10/) - State and territory Small Business Persons of the Year will compete for national award to be presented in Washington, D.C. Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced its list of state and territory Small Business Persons of the Year ahead of this year’s National Small Business Week, which will take place May 4-10, 2025. SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler will kick
- [FHFA: William J. Pulte Sworn In as 5th Director of U.S. Federal Housing Finance Agency](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-william-j-pulte-sworn-in-as-5th-director-of-u-s-federal-housing-finance-agency/) - In an Agency ceremony, William J. Pulte was sworn in today to a five-year term as Director of the United States Federal Housing Finance Agency (U.S. Federal Housing). Mr. Pulte was appointed to head the Agency by President Donald J. Trump. “I am honored by President Trump’s trust as we usher in a Golden Age
- [CDFI Fund: Application Demand for CY 2024-2025 Round of New Markets Tax Credit Program Released](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-application-demand-for-cy-2024-2025-round-of-new-markets-tax-credit-program-released/) - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) announced today that it received 216 applications for the calendar year (CY) 2024-2025 round of the New Markets Tax Credit Program (NMTC Program). The NMTC Program advances economic development in economically distressed communities by making tax credit allocations available to Community Development
- [ABA: Foundation Partners with FBI to Release New Infographic Educating Consumers on Tech Support Scams](https://www.learncra.com/aba-foundation-partners-with-fbi-to-release-new-infographic-educating-consumers-on-tech-support-scams/) - The ABA Foundation, in collaboration with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today released a new infographic warning consumers about the increasing threat of tech support scams. The infographic aims to educate consumers, especially older Americans. According to data from the FBI’s most recent IC3 annual report, tech support and government impersonation scams caused approximately $1.3 billion in
- [ABA: Banks, Credit Unions, Payments and Fintech Industries Highlight Harm APR Cap Legislation Would Have on Consumers in Letter](https://www.learncra.com/aba-banks-credit-unions-payments-and-fintech-industries-highlight-harm-apr-cap-legislation-would-have-on-consumers-in-letter/) - Leading financial groups that represent banks and credit unions of all sizes, along with the payments and fintech industries, today sent a letter to Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) to oppose their proposed legislation that would create an annual percentage rate (APR) cap for credit cards at 10 percent. This misguided legislation, which
- [Census Bureau: Data Collection Begins for 2024 Annual Integrated Economic Survey for Businesses](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-data-collection-begins-for-2024-annual-integrated-economic-survey-for-businesses/) - The U.S. Census Bureau today began collecting data for the 2024 Annual Integrated Economic Survey (AIES). One of the Census Bureau’s newest surveys, the AIES is designed to integrate and replace seven existing business surveys into a streamlined single survey. The AIES provides key measures of economic activity, including the only comprehensive national and subnational data
- [ICBA: In New Policy Resolution, ICBA Urges Congress to End Tax Subsidies for Credit Unions Over $1 Billion in Assets](https://www.learncra.com/icba-in-new-policy-resolution-icba-urges-congress-to-end-tax-subsidies-for-crdit-unions-over-1-billion-in-assets/) - With Congress considering legislation to reform the nation’s tax policy, the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today called on policymakers to end unwarranted federal tax subsidies for the nation’s largest credit unions. A new policy resolution that ICBA introduced at this week’s ICBA LIVE 2025 national convention in Nashville, Tenn., calls on lawmakers to
- [Census Bureau: New Data Shows Growth in Metro Areas Outpaced Nation](https://www.learncra.com/census-bureau-new-data-shows-growth-in-metro-areas-outpaced-nation/) - Population growth in U.S. metro areas as a whole was faster between 2023 and 2024 than in the previous year and outpaced that of the nation. Additionally, some metro areas that experienced population declines during the COVID-19 pandemic are now observing population gains, according to Vintage 2024 estimates of population totals and components of change
- [SBA: Made in America Manufacturing Initiative Announced](https://www.learncra.com/sba-made-in-america-manufacturing-initiative-announced/) - Effort will cut $100B in regulation, expand access to capital and create dedicated infrastructure to support blue-collar boom Today, U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler announced the agency’s new Made in America Manufacturing Initiative to restore American economic dominance and national security by empowering small manufacturers. The agency’s effort will support President Trump’s agenda to create good-paying jobs,
- [HUD: Innovative Housing Showcase “The American Home is the American Dream” Returns to the National Mall](https://www.learncra.com/hud-innovative-housing-showcase-the-american-home-is-the-american-dream-returns-to-the-national-mall/) - Showcase to run May 30 – June 1 and celebrate 250th Anniversary of American Independence Secretary Scott Turner today announced the return of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Innovative Housing Showcase from May 30 – June 1 to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This year’s showcase will highlight history-defining events in
- [OCC: Agency to Host Virtual Innovation Office Hours in May](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-to-host-virtual-innovation-office-hours-in-may/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today announced virtual Office Hours with its Office of Financial Technology on May 6-8, 2025, to promote responsible innovation in the federal banking system. Office Hours are an opportunity for banks and financial technology (fintech) companies to engage with OCC staff on matters related to bank-fintech
- [Agencies Issue 2024 Shared National Credit Program](https://www.learncra.com/agencies-issue-2024-shared-national-credit-program/) - Federal bank regulatory agencies today reported in the 2024 Shared National Credit (SNC) report that credit risk associated with large, syndicated bank loans remains moderate. However, the agencies noted weakened credit quality trends continue due to the pressure of higher interest rates on leveraged borrowers and compressed operating margins in some industry sectors. The agencies
- [CDFI Fund: FY 2025 CDFI Program or NACA Program Applications Due by March 21, 2025](https://www.learncra.com/cdfi-fund-fy-2025-cdfi-program-or-naca-program-applications-due-by-march-21-2025/) - As a reminder for fiscal year (FY) 2025 Community Development Financial Institutions Program (CDFI Program) and Native American CDFI Assistance Program (NACA Program) Applicants, the deadline for online submission of CDFI Program and NACA Program Application materials, including Persistent Poverty County-Financial Assistance (PPC-FA), Healthy Food Financing Initiative-Financial Assistance (HFFI-FA), and Disability Funds-Financial Assistance (DF-FA), through
- [ABA: ABA Testifies Before Senate Ag Committee on Risk Management, Credit and the Agricultural Economy](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-testifies-before-senate-ag-committee-on-risk-management-credit-and-the-agricultural-economy/) - The American Bankers Association offered the banking industry’s views on risk management, credit and the agricultural economy in testimony before the Senate Committee on Agriculture today. Caleb Hopkins, current chair of ABA’s Agricultural and Rural Bankers Committee, testified on behalf of ABA. Hopkins, based in Halbur, Iowa, has worked in agricultural banking for 13 years, including the
- [Treasury: Suspension of Enforcement of Corporate Transparency Act Against U.S. Citizens and Domestic Reporting Companies Announced](https://www.learncra.com/treasury-suspension-of-enforcement-of-corporate-transparency-act-against-u-s-citizens-and-domestic-reporting-companies-announced/) - The Treasury Department is announcing today that, with respect to the Corporate Transparency Act, not only will it not enforce any penalties or fines associated with the beneficial ownership information reporting rule under the existing regulatory deadlines, but it will further not enforce any penalties or fines against U.S. citizens or domestic reporting companies or
- [ABA: ABA Welcomes FDIC Regualtory Withdrawals](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-welcomes-fdic-regualtory-withdrawals/) - "We welcome today's decisions from Acting Chairman Hill and the FDIC Board of Directors to rescind and withdraw a range of regulatory actions advanced by the agency's prior leadership. In particular, we applaud the decision to rescind the 2024 merger policy statement, which created more uncertainty in the marketplace for banks looking to make strategic
- [OCC: CRA Performance Evaluations Released for 26 National Banks and Federal Savings Associations](https://www.learncra.com/occ-cra-performance-evaluations-released-for-26-national-banks-and-federal-savings-associations/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released a list of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance evaluations that became public during the period of February 1, 2025, through February 28, 2025. Under the CRA, the OCC assesses an institution’s record of meeting the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and
- [FDIC: Board of Directors Approve Proposal to Rescind 2024 Bank Merger Policy Statement](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-of-directors-approve-proposal-to-rescind-2024-bank-merger-policy-statement/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved a proposal to rescind the agency’s 2024 Statement of Policy on Bank Merger Transactions (PDF). The FDIC’s proposal will reinstate, on an interim basis, the Merger Policy Statement that was in effect prior to 2024 as the agency conducts a broader reevaluation of its bank
- [FDIC: Board of Directors Withdrawn Four Outstanding Proposed Rule](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-of-directors-withdrawn-four-outstanding-proposed-rule/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation’s (FDIC) Board of Directors today approved the withdrawal of three outstanding proposed rules relating to brokered deposits, corporate governance, and the Change in Bank Control Act (CBCA). The FDIC is also withdrawing authority for staff to publish in the Federal Register a proposed rule related to incentive-based compensation arrangements. The brokered deposits
- [FDIC: Board of Directors Approve Delay of Compliance Date for Certain Provisions in Sign and Advertising Rule](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-board-of-directors-approve-delay-of-compliance-date-for-certain-provisions-in-sign-and-advertising-rule/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Board of Directors today delayed the compliance date of certain provisions under the FDIC’s Sign and Advertising Rule. Specifically, the delay applies to requirements related to the display of the FDIC’s official sign on insured depository institutions’ (IDIs) digital channels, as well as to provisions related to IDIs’ automated
- [ICBA: ICBA Strongly Supports Bipartisan ACRE Act Offering Lower-Cost Credit to Rural Americans](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-strongly-supports-bipartisan-acre-act-offering-lower-cost-credit-to-rural-americans/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today expressed strong support for the introduction of the Access to Credit for our Rural Economy (ACRE) Act to support farmers, ranchers, and rural homeowners. The bipartisan bill introduced by Sens. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Angus King (D-Maine) in the Senate and Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa) and Don
- [ABA: ABA Applauds Introduction of ACRE Act of 2025](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-introduction-of-acre-act-of-2025/) - “ABA applauds today’s bipartisan, bicameral introduction of the Access to Credit for our Rural Economy Act of 2025, and we thank the bill’s lead sponsors Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Angus King (I-ME), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Representatives Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), Don Davis (D-NC-01) and Nathaniel
- [ABA: ABA Applauds Vote to Invalidate CFPB Overdraft Rule](https://www.learncra.com/aba-aba-applauds-vote-to-invalidate-cfpb-overdraft-rule/) - "We applaud the House Financial Services Committee’s vote to invalidate the CFPB’s misguided overdraft rule and look forward to seeing the House consider the resolution soon. The Bureau’s rule was flawed and unlawful from the start, and went against the wishes of a strong majority of Americans who have repeatedly indicated that they value and appreciate overdraft
- [ABA: Bank Economists See Emerging Risks to Growth and Inflation](https://www.learncra.com/aba-bank-economists-see-emerging-risks-to-growth-and-inflation/) - While the American Bankers Association’s Economic Advisory Committee expects continued economic growth, the committee’s latest forecast released today recognizes risks emanating from policy changes and uncertainty. Additionally, the Federal Reserve is likely to face significant challenges in returning inflation to its 2% target, according to the group. The committee, composed of 16 chief economists from
- [OCC: Agency Clarifies Bank Authority to Engage in Certain Cryptocurrency Activities](https://www.learncra.com/occ-agency-clarifies-bank-authority-to-engage-in-certain-cryptocurrency-activities/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today took action to reaffirm that a range of cryptocurrency activities are permissible in the federal banking system. The OCC published Interpretive Letter 1183 to confirm that crypto-asset custody, certain stablecoin activities, and participation in independent node verification networks such as distributed ledger are permissible for
- [HUD and Census Bureau: New Residential Sales Report for January 2025 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/hud-and-census-bureau-new-residential-sales-report-for-january-2025-issued/) - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Census Bureau jointly announced the following new residential sales statistics for January 2025: New Home SalesSales of new single-family houses in January 2025 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 657,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau
- [FDIC: List of Banks Examined for CRA Compliance Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-list-of-banks-examined-for-cra-compliance-issued-109/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued its list of state nonmember banks recently evaluated for compliance with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). The list covers evaluation ratings that the FDIC assigned to institutions in December 2024. The CRA is a 1977 law that requires the FDIC to assess a bank’s record of meeting
- [ICBA: ICBA Applauds Treasury Secretary Bessent for Pro-Community Bank Remarks and Support for Independence of Prudential Banking Regulators](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-applauds-treasury-secretary-bessent-for-pro-community-bank-remarks-and-support-for-independence-of-prudential-banking-regulators/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today applauded Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent for his remarks supporting community banks and committing to the continued independence of the nation’s prudential banking regulators and dual banking system. “ICBA and the nation’s community banks strongly support Secretary Bessent’s remarks on the positive role of community banks to Main
- [ICBA: ICBA Commends FDIC for Rescinding Proposed Rules on Brokered Deposits, Corporate Governance, Incentive-Based Compensation](https://www.learncra.com/icba-icba-commends-fdic-for-rescinding-proposed-rules-on-brokered-deposits-corporate-governance-incentive-based-compensation/) - The Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) today commended the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. board of directors for withdrawing three ICBA-opposed proposed rules that would harm community banks and the communities they serve. As advocated by ICBA, the FDIC today announced it is withdrawing proposals to: Revise its brokered deposits framework so more deposits would be considered
- [SBA: Administrator Loeffler Announces SBA Reforms to Put American Citizens First](https://www.learncra.com/sba-administrator-loeffler-announces-sba-reforms-to-put-american-citizens-first/) - SBA will require citizenship verification for loan applications, relocate regional offices out of sanctuary cities Today, U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler announced a series of reforms to put American citizens first by ending taxpayer benefits for illegal aliens and moving SBA offices out of sanctuary cities. These actions support President Trump’s agenda to secure our
- [HUD: Foreclosure Relief Extended to Californians Impacted by Los Angeles County Wildfires](https://www.learncra.com/hud-foreclosure-relief-extended-to-californians-impacted-by-los-angeles-county-wildfires/) - HUD Secretary Scott Turner announces 90-day extension of foreclosure moratorium on Federal Housing Administration (FHA) single family mortgages in impacted areas Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is announcing a 90-day extension of its foreclosure moratorium on Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured single family mortgages in the areas of Los Angeles County,
- [FDIC: Guidance Issued to Help Financial Institutions and Facilitate Recovery in Areas of West Virginia Affected by Severe Storms, Straight-line Winds, Flooding, Landslides, and Mudslides](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-guidance-issued-to-help-financial-institutions-and-facilitate-recovery-in-areas-of-west-virginia-affected-by-severe-storms-straight-line-winds-flooding-landslides-and-mudslides/) - The FDIC has announced a series of steps intended to provide regulatory relief to financial institutions and facilitate recovery in areas of West Virginia affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides. Please review the FDIC’s Disaster Page to review information about what to do if your bank is affected. Statement of Applicability: The contents of,
- [Federal Reserve: FRB Begins 2025 Survey of Consumer Finances](https://www.learncra.com/federal-reserve-frb-begins-2025-survey-of-consumer-finances/) - The Federal Reserve Board in March will begin its regular study of household finances, the Survey of Consumer Finances, which provides the public and policymakers with detailed and important insights into the economic condition of American families. "This survey is an important source of information on the financial well-being of American families," Federal Reserve Board
- [FDIC: CRA Examination Schedules for Second Quarter 2025 and Third Quarter 2025 Issued](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-cra-examination-schedules-for-second-quarter-2025-and-third-quarter-2025-issued/) - The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) today issued the lists of institutions scheduled for a Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) examination during the second quarter 2025 and third quarter 2025. CRA regulations require each federal bank and thrift regulator to publish its quarterly CRA examination schedule at least 30 days before the beginning of each quarter. The
- [SBA: Administrator Loeffler Issues Memo on Day One Priorities](https://www.learncra.com/sba-administrator-loeffler-issues-memo-on-day-one-priorities/) - Outlines how SBA will become an America First engine for free enterprise Following her confirmation and swearing-in as the 28th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, Kelly Loeffler issued a Day One memo outlining her top priorities for the agency. “Small businesses are the backbone of our nation, driving innovation, job creation, and prosperity – and there’s
- [FDIC:  Upcoming Webinar Scheduled on "Empowering Youth: Using the FDIC Reality Fair Toolkit to Build Real-World Financial Skills"](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-upcoming-webinar-scheduled-on-empowering-youth-using-the-fdic-reality-fair-toolkit-to-build-real-world-financial-skills/) - The FDIC will host a webinar to showcase the Guide to Organizing Reality Fairs (PDF) and other financial education resources. These resources are designed to help schools and youth-serving organizations empower young people with essential financial skills to plan for their future. Reality Fairs are simulations of an adult's financial life that provide an interactive experience for
- [ABA: Kentucky Teen Named Grand Prize Winner of National Teen Video Contest](https://www.learncra.com/aba-kentucky-teen-named-grand-prize-winner-of-national-teen-video-contest/) - The American Bankers Association Foundation today announced the winner of the national Lights, Camera, Save! teen video contest. Lela Ashley, a 16-year-old at George Rogers Clark High School in Lexington, Ky., achieved first place for her entry, “Lights, Camera, Save! Press Conference” in addition to the $5,000 prize money. Other submissions that placed in the
- [FHFA: U.S. House Prices Rice 4.5 Percent Over the Prior Year; Up 1.4 Percent from the Third Quarter 2024](https://www.learncra.com/fhfa-u-s-house-prices-rice-4-5-percent-over-the-prior-year-up-1-4-percent-from-the-third-quarter-2024/) - U.S. house prices rose 4.5 percent between the fourth quarter of 2023 and the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) House Price Index (FHFA HPI®). House prices were up 1.4 percent compared to the third quarter of 2024. FHFA’s seasonally adjusted monthly index for December was up 0.4 percent from November. “U.S. house prices grew
- [FDIC: Guidance Issued to Help Financial Institutions and Facilitate Recovery in Areas of Kentucky Affected by Severe Storms, Straight-line Winds, Flooding, Landslides, and Mudslides](https://www.learncra.com/fdic-guidance-issued-to-help-financial-institutions-and-facilitate-recovery-in-areas-of-kentucky-affected-by-severe-storms-straight-line-winds-flooding-landslides-and-mudslides/) - Summary: The FDIC has announced a series of steps intended to provide regulatory relief to financial institutions and facilitate recovery in areas of Kentucky affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides. Please review the FDIC’s Disaster Page to review information about what to do if your bank is affected. Statement of Applicability: The contents of,
- [HUD: Secretary Turner Cuts Red Tape by Terminating the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Rule](https://www.learncra.com/hud-secretary-turner-cuts-red-tape-by-terminating-the-affirmatively-furthering-fair-housing-rule/) - Action will restore zoning decisions to localities and increase access and supply of affordable housing Today, Secretary Scott Turner announced the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will terminate the Biden-era 2021 Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) rule, cutting costly red tape imposed on localities and returning decision-making power to local and state governments. The
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kentucky](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-kentucky-4/) - FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from Feb. 14, and continuing. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Breathitt, Clay, Harlan, Knott, Lee, Letcher, Martin, Owsley,
- [OCC: Second and Third Quarter 2025 CRA Evaluation Schedule Issued](https://www.learncra.com/occ-second-and-third-quarter-2025-cra-evaluation-schedule-issued/) - The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) today released its schedule of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) evaluations to be conducted in the second and third quarters of 2025. The OCC encourages public comment on the CRA-related activities of the national banks and federal savings associations (collectively, banks) scheduled to be evaluated under the
- [ICBA: Statement Issued Opposing Consolidation of the Nation's Banking Regulators](https://www.learncra.com/icba-statement-issued-opposing-consolidation-of-the-nations-banking-regulators/) - Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey issued the following statement opposing the consolidation of the nation’s banking regulators. “While Wall Street bank executives and others have called for consolidating the nation’s banking regulators, ICBA and community bankers have long supported the independence of the federal banking agencies and our
- [FEMA: President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for West Virginia](https://www.learncra.com/fema-president-trump-approves-major-disaster-declaration-for-west-virginia-4/) - FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of West Virginia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides beginning on Feb. 15, and continuing. The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in McDowell, Mercer, Mingo and Wyoming counties. Assistance can

## Pages

- [Seeking CRA knowledge?](https://www.learncra.com/) - socrates curated by findCRA is your all-in-one resource for Community Reinvestment Act research, industry news, compliance, and examination guidance for banks and nonprofits.
- [CRA Knowledge Base](https://www.learncra.com/cra-knowledge-base/) - findCRA's CRA Knowledge Base lets you explore the Community Reinvestment Act, related regulatory guidance, interagency Q&As and our own helpful articles to ensure regulatory compliance.

## My Templates

- [Default Kit](https://www.learncra.com/?elementor_library=default-kit)

## Articles

- [Sharing Your CRA Story: Why Performance Context is Important for your Examination](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/sharing-your-cra-story-why-performance-context-is-important-for-your-examination/) - We have all heard about it and seen it included in Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) examination reports, but many banks have yet to tackle creating their own Performance Context. Since there is no regulatory requirement for banks to complete their own Performance Context narrative, many banks have yet to embrace investing in the research needed to
- [The Road Back: Deploying CRA in Community Disaster Recovery](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/the-road-back-deploying-cra-in-community-disaster-recovery/) - Responding to community needs is a core purpose of CRA, including in areas that have been affected by natural disasters. Beginning in 2005, the regulatory agencies incorporated revitalization and stabilization efforts in major disaster areas as a qualified activity type for consideration during CRA examinations. In order to maximize CRA consideration, a bank must ensure that
- [Avoid CRA Pitfalls! Tips for Navigating Around Six Common CRA Mistakes](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/avoid-cra-pitfalls-tips-for-navigating-around-six-common-cra-mistakes/) - As any CRA Officer will tell you, someday CRA seems like a jungle cruise and other days it feels you’re lost on a treacherous path with no way out. Much like Indiana Jones, who will again shine on cinema screens this June after a 15-year hiatus, CRA professionals often venture into unexplored territory seeking CRA treasure. Through
- [Better Together: Building CRA Partnerships with Mission-Driven Financial Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/better-together-building-cra-partnerships-with-mission-driven-financial-institutions/) - At the heart of CRA, banks are encouraged to support low- and moderate-income individuals, small businesses, and small farms in their communities. Recently, banks have renewed their efforts to provide responsive services to historically underserved individuals and areas. Yet, many banks have not harnessed the power of building partnerships with mission-driven financial institutions as part of their
- [Through the Looking Glass: A Glimpse at the Proposed Future of CRA](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/through-the-looking-glass-a-glimpse-at-the-proposed-future-of-cra/) - After a long and winding journey, the new interagency Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) modernization proposal is finally here. What started with a 30-page memo from the Treasury Department in 2018 has resulted in a 650-plus page proposed rule covering the most expansive changes to the CRA since 1995. The proposal incorporates feedback and insights gleaned from the
- [The Modern CRA Examination Playbook](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/the-modern-cra-examination-playbook/) - Exploring the evolving process for CRA examinations under the OCC's final rule Beginning October 1, 2020, the rules of CRA changed for banks regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). On that date, the OCC’s final rule became effective for the agency’s plan to modernize the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA). With the
- [CRA Checkpoint: Where We Are on the Journey to CRA Modernization](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-checkpoint-where-we-are-on-the-journey-to-cra-modernization/) - A lot has happened since the Treasury issued its memo calling for Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) modernization in August 2018. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has led the charge to reform CRA in a way that accommodates the current banking environment while providing more consistency and transparency in the examination process.
- [CRA & COVID-19: How to Prepare Your Pandemic Response for Your Next Exam](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-19-how-to-prepare-your-pandemic-response-for-your-next-exam/) - As we approach the second anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country continues to adjust to the ongoing evolution of pandemic response. While early on things were very uncertain, the availability of vaccines and increased knowledge of how to handle the impacts of a global pandemic have allowed most communities to return to some levels of
- [CRA Level Up! Tips for a Successful Transition to an Intermediate Small Bank](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-level-up-tips-for-a-successful-transition-to-an-intermediate-small-bank/) - It’s finally happened. While on one hand you’re excited that your bank has continued to grow, you’re also wondering what it means now that you’ve crossed the threshold to becoming an Intermediate Small Bank under the Community Reinvestment Act (“CRA”). As the bank’s CRA Officer, you’re now faced with new regulatory requirements and expanded documentation to evidence
- [CRA Modernization Is Here...Now What?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-modernization-is-here-now-what/) - Diving into the significant changes to qualifying bank activities under the new CRA final rule. New rules to modernize the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) are finally here….at least for banks regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC). The last time CRA regulations were substantively updated was in 1995, when banks still relied
- [CRA in the Coronavirus Response: Reinvesting in Communities During the Pandemic](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-in-the-coronavirus-response-reinvesting-in-communities-during-the-pandemic/) - Just 30 days before I wrote this, our team at findCRA was making plans to fly to Denver for the 2020 National Interagency Community Reinvestment Conference. We were excited to chat with our customers and build new relationships with bankers from across the country while learning the latest on Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) modernization. The week
- [Acquiring New Communities: Six Keys to CRA Success During a Bank Acquisition](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/acquiring-new-communities-six-keys-to-cra-success-during-a-bank-acquisition/) - It’s a typical Tuesday morning. You just grabbed some coffee and sat down to work. Then it happens—the CEO announces the acquisition of a $1 billion bank with 14 branches located two states away from your current operations. Your mind quickly begins to assemble a list of the related tasks that need to be accomplished in the
- [Social Discrimination: How Your Bank Could Be Discouraging Borrowers and Job Seekers through Social Media Ad Targeting](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/social-discrimination-how-your-bank-could-be-discouraging-borrowers-and-job-seekers-through-social-media-ad-targeting/) - Imagine this: you are the bank’s compliance officer and receive the latest mortgage advertisement from your marketing department for approval. As you review the copy and images, you notice the targeted audience for the ad is “white male home buyers with an income of at least $100,000 living in only affluent zip codes.” Within seconds, you
- [Strategic Focus: How to Use the CRA Q&As to Support Modern Needs in Communities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/strategic-focus-how-to-use-the-cra-qas-to-support-modern-needs-in-communities/) - In July 2016, the Federal regulatory agencies issued updates to the Interagency Questions & Answers on Community Reinvestment (“Q&A‘s”). While the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and its implementing regulations are fairly short and focused on core requirements, the Q&A’s are a key guidance document in understanding their real-world application. Tallying over 200 pages, the Q&A’s
- [CRA: Extending a Helping Hand](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-extending-a-helping-hand/) - Last year was historic for many reasons, but one of the most tragic was a barrage of hurricanes and other natural disasters unparalleled in recent American history, including the first time two Category Four hurricanes made landfall in the United States in the same year. Disasters struck many of our communities including those in Texas,
- [CRA COVID FAQ 1: COVID-19 Designated Disaster Areas](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-1-covid-19-designated-disaster-areas/) - Question 1 Are COVID-19 affected states and jurisdictions considered CRA designated disaster areas? Response 1 The agencies believe that the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) national emergency raises unique needs for revitalization and stabilization activities that differ from those typically undertaken in response to natural disasters or other emergencies. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has issued
- [CRA COVID FAQ 2: Length of Consideration for Responsive Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-2-length-of-consideration-for-responsive-activities/) - Question 2 How long will the agencies grant consideration for activities that revitalize or stabilize COVID-19 designated disaster areas? Response 2 The March 19, 2020, Joint Statement(3) indicates that it is effective through the six-month period after the national emergency declaration is lifted, unless extended by the agencies. With specific reference to COVID-19 related revitalization and
- [CRA COVID FAQ 3: Consideration of Responsive Activities in CRA Examinations](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-3-consideration-of-responsive-activities-in-cra-examinations/) - Question 3 How will activities undertaken in response to COVID-19 that are responsive to community needs be considered in CRA examinations? Response 3 In light of the declaration of a national emergency, and consistent with the Joint Statement, the agencies are clarifying that banks will receive favorable CRA consideration for community development activities that are
- [CRA COVID FAQ 4: Consideration of Responsive Activities on a Nationwide Basis](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-4-consideration-of-responsive-activities-on-a-nationwide-basis/) - Question 4 Can a bank receive consideration for activities related to the COVID-19 emergency and that are conducted on a nationwide basis? Response 4 The COVID-19 emergency has had a significant health and economic impact that extends beyond many banks’ assessment areas. Banks that are responsive to community development needs and opportunities in their assessment
- [CRA COVID FAQ 5: CRA Eligibility of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-5-cra-eligibility-of-paycheck-protection-program-ppp-loans/) - Question 5 Are bank loans made under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) eligible for CRA consideration? For PPP loans that are eligible community development loans, what is the appropriate community development purpose? Response 5 Generally, loans, including PPP loans, in amounts of $1 million or less to for-profit businesses, or to nonprofit organizations that are
- [CRA COVID FAQ 6: Reporting of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) on Call Reports](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-6-reporting-of-paycheck-protection-program-ppp-on-call-reports/) - Question 6 How should PPP loans be reported on Call Reports? Repsonse 6 PPP loans are Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) loans. Banks should follow Call Report requirements for reporting PPP loans based on the loan type, amount, and collateral, as applicable. Originally published in the “Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Consideration for Activities in Response
- [CRA COVID FAQ 7: Reporting of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans as Small Business Loans on the CRA Loan Register](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-7-reporting-of-paycheck-protection-program-ppp-loans-as-small-business-loans-on-the-cra-loan-register/) - Question 7 For PPP loans reported as small business loans (Type 01), with loan amounts of $1 million or less, made to an existing bank customer, should a bank report revenue on the CRA loan register based on what it had previously gathered about that business? For a new PPP borrower, which has an unknown
- [CRA COVID FAQ 8: Consideration of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) in Lending Distribution Evaluations](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-8-consideration-of-paycheck-protection-program-ppp-in-lending-distribution-evaluations/) - Question 8 How will PPP loans be considered when evaluating the borrower and geographic distribution of loans and the distribution of loans inside and outside of bank assessment areas? Response 8 PPP loans in amounts of $1 million or less will be considered when evaluating a bank’s performance under the applicable retail lending test. This
- [CRA COVID FAQ 9: CRA Eligibility of Main Street Lending Program Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-9-cra-eligibility-of-main-street-lending-program-loans/) - Question 9 Are bank loans made under the Main Street Lending Program eligible for CRA consideration? Response 9 A bank may receive CRA consideration for Main Street Lending Program loans that meet relevant CRA requirements. Specifically, small business loans, including Main Street Lending Program loans, in amounts of $1 million or less to for-profit businesses,
- [CRA COVID FAQ 10: Consideration of Responsive Activities Supporting Affordable Housing](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-10-consideration-of-responsive-activities-supporting-affordable-housing/) - Question 10 The Joint Statement did not include a reference to affordable housing. Will examiners consider bank activities that help to maintain affordable housing for low- or moderate-income individuals, including homeowners or renters, as responsive to community needs during the COVID-19 emergency? Response 10 Yes. Community development under CRA includes activities that promote affordable housing,
- [CRA COVID FAQ 11: Consideration of Job Loss or Loss of Income in Determination of Low- or Moderate-Income](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-11-consideration-of-job-loss-or-loss-of-income-in-determination-of-low-or-moderate-income/) - Question 11 Will job loss or loss of income due to the COVID-19 emergency be considered when determining whether an individual or family is considered to be low- or moderate-income? Response 11 CRA encourages activities that benefit low- or moderate-income individuals and families. This includes individuals and families who have recently become low- or moderate-income
- [CRA COVID FAQ 12: Responsive Retail Bank Service Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-12-responsive-retail-bank-service-activities/) - Question 12 What retail banking service activities will be considered particularly responsive to the needs of low- and moderate-income individuals due to the COVID-19 emergency? Response 12 As the Joint Statement explains, the agencies encourage banks to work with affected individuals and communities, particularly those that are low- or moderate-income. Examples of services that are
- [CRA COVID FAQ 13: Responsive Community Services](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-13-responsive-community-services/) - Question 13 The Joint Statement highlights loans, investments, and services that support access to health care for low- and moderate-income individuals and communities. Are there other community services that are particularly responsive to the needs of low- and moderate-income individuals during the COVID-19 emergency?communities. Response 13 Examples of community services that are responsive to the
- [CRA COVID FAQ 14: Service Test Consideration for Processing Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) or Other Pandemic-Focused Loan Applications and Loan Servicing](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-14-service-test-consideration-for-processing-paycheck-protection-program-ppp-or-other-pandemic-focused-loan-applications-and-loan-servicing/) - Question 14 Can banks receive CRA service test consideration for processing Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) or other pandemic-focused loan applications and related loan servicing activities? (new FAQ added March 8, 2021) Response 14 The CRA regulatory criteria for the service test do not include loan(7) processing and servicing activities for retail loans originated by the bank.
- [CRA COVID FAQ 15: Reporting of Rescinded or Returned Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-15-reporting-of-rescinded-or-returned-paycheck-protection-program-ppp-loans/) - Question 15 Should banks report, and should examiners give CRA consideration to, PPP loans that have been rescinded or returned under the SBA’s safe harbor? (new FAQ added March 8, 2021) Response 15 No. Banks should neither report these loans on their CRA loan register nor will examiners consider the loans in their CRA evaluations
- [CRA COVID FAQ 16: Community Development Eligiblity of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans in Low- or Moderate-Income, Distressed or Underserved Geographies](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-16-community-development-eligiblity-of-paycheck-protection-program-ppp-loans-in-low-or-moderate-income-distressed-or-underserved-geographies/) - Question 16 Are PPP loans over $1 million that are also in low- or moderate-income geographies or in distressed or underserved nonmetropolitan middle-income geographies automatically considered to be community development activities? (new FAQ added March 8, 2021) Response 16 Yes, a PPP loan greater than $1 million in one of these geographies will be considered
- [CRA COVID FAQ 17: CRA Community Service Consideration of Fee Waivers and Other Account Accommodations](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-17-cra-community-service-consideration-of-fee-waivers-and-other-account-accommodations/) - Question 17 Due to the economic distress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, some banks have been: (a) waiving withdrawal penalties on certificates of deposit (CDs); (b) fulfilling early distribution requests regarding individual retirement accounts (IRAs); (c) allowing draws on home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) during the repayment periods; (d) increasing transaction limits; (e) eliminating
- [CRA COVID FAQ 18: CRA Consideration for Services Provided Virtually by Bank Employees](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-covid-faq-18-cra-consideration-for-services-provided-virtually-by-bank-employees/) - Question 18 Considering the challenge of providing in-person community development services during the COVID-19 pandemic, how will such services provided virtually by bank representatives be considered for CRA purposes? (new FAQ added March 8, 2021) Response 18 Historically, for CRA purposes, bank representatives have primarily provided community development services in-person. However, the agencies recognize that
- [12 CFR §25.11 Authority, purposes, and scope](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-11-authority-purposes-and-scope/) - §25.11 Authority, purposes, and scope. (a) Authority and OMB control number—(1) Authority. The authority for subparts A, B, C, D, and E is 12 U.S.C. 21, 22, 26, 27, 30, 36, 93a, 161, 215, 215a, 481, 1814, 1816, 1828(c), 1835a, 2901 through 2907, 3101 through 3111 and 5412(b)(2)(B). (2) OMB control number. The information collection requirements
- [12 CFR §345.11 Authority, purposes and scope](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-11-authority-purposes-and-scope/) - § 345.11 Authority, purposes, and scope. (a) Authority and OMB control number — (1) Authority. The authority for this part is 12 U.S.C. 1814–1817, 1819–1820, 1828, 1831u and 2901–2907, 3103–3104, and 3108(a). (2) OMB control number. The information collection requirements contained in this part were approved by the Office of Management and Budget under the provisions
- [§__.22(c)(2)(ii)-1 Affiliate Lending Constraint](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22c2ii-1-affiliate-lending-constraint/) - §__.22(c)(2)(ii) – 1 Q: Regardless of examination type, how is this constraint [“if an institution elects to have its supervisory Agency consider loans within a particular lending category made by one or more of the institution’s affiliates in a particular assessment area, the institution shall elect to have the Agency consider all loans within that lending category in
- [§__.22(c)(2)(ii)-2 Affiliate Lending Constraint](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/__-22c2ii-2-affiliate-lending-constraint/) - §__.22(c)(2)(ii) - 2 Q: Regardless of examination type, how is this constraint ["if an institution elects to have its supervisory Agency consider loans within a particular lending category made by one or more of the institution's affiliates in a particular assessment area, the institution shall elect to have the Agency consider all loans within that lending category in
- [CRA Time Warp: What's Old Is New Again](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-time-warp-whats-old-is-new-again/) - Whether you view the past few years of Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) compliance as an excellent adventure or a long, strange trip, there’s no question the journey toward modernization has been anything but straightforward. It began with a 2018 Treasury memo and continued with multiple rounds of proposed and final rules from the bank regulatory
- [CRA Notes from the Field:  Guidance for Maximizing Your Bank's Documentation](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/cra-notes-from-the-field-guidance-for-maximizing-your-banks-documentation/) - Over the last decade at findCRA, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to chat with hundreds of bankers about their CRA programs and examination experiences. I’ve also worked closely with many CRA Officers as they utilized our software and consulting services to research and prepare for CRA exams. Through these relationships, I’ve learned many lessons about
- [What is an in-kind donation?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-an-in-kind-donation/) - An in-kind donation is the transfer of a gift of goods or services (or some other non-cash asset that has value) to another person or organization. Similar to cash donations, in-kind donations made to a 501(c)(3) organization are tax-deductible. However, with in-kind donations, the donor must determine the cash value of the goods or services.
- [Small Institutions | Performance Criteria | Investments and Services](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-performance-criteria-investments-and-services/) - Investments and Services (at the institution’s option to enhance a “Satisfactory” rating) 1 - If the institution chooses, review its performance in making qualified investments and providing branches and other services and delivery systems that enhance credit availability in its assessment area(s). Performance with respect to qualified investments and services may be used to enhance
- [What is technical assistance?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-technical-assistance/) - Examples of technical assistance activities that are related to the provision of financial services and that might be provided to community development organizations include serving on the board of directors serving on a loan review committee developing loan application and underwriting standards developing loan-processing systems developing secondary market vehicles or programs assisting in marketing financial
- [What are examples of CRA-related complaints to include in the CRA Public File?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-are-examples-of-cra-related-complaints-to-include-in-the-cra-public-file/) - As you manage and update your CRA Public File, the CRA states that banks should include: All written comments received from the public for the current year and each of the prior two calendar years that specifically relate to the bank's or savings association's performance in helping to meet community credit needs, and any response
- [What is economic development?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-economic-development/) - Economic development activities are generally those that promote commerce, trade and employment. Under the CRA, such activities may include: Lending to small businesses or farms that have less than $1 million in gross annual revenues Lending to small businesses or farms through government sponsored programs or entities including Community Development Financial Institutions, the Small Business
- [What is financial literacy education?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-financial-literacy-education/) - Teaching or developing financial education curricula for LMI individuals to promote understanding of the banking and financial system. May also include providing other financial services education to promote community development or affordable housing such as, credit counseling, homeownership counseling, financial planning, foreclosure counseling, school savings programs, personal budgeting, small business financing, or tax preparation.
- [What types of financial products and services are CRA qualifying?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-types-of-financial-products-and-services-are-cra-qualifying/) - Financial products and services tailored to LMI individuals including initiatives focused on the unbanked or underbanked. These may include providing low-cost alternatives for financial services such as electronic benefits transfer, international remittance services, and checking and savings accounts.
- [What is a healthy community initiative?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-a-healthy-community-initiative/) - Programs defined by the Federal Reserve as supporting healthier communities in areas that may not have access to healthy initiatives as a norm. Programs include providing access to healthy food or medical care, community aesthetic programs, environmental quality, building financial capacity, early childhood development, education, employment, entrepreneurship, personal/public safety, physical activity, public transportation, senior needs,
- [Wholesale or Limited Purpose Institutions | Examination Scope](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/wholesale-or-limited-purpose-institutions-examination-scope/) - 1. For institutions with more than one assessment area, identify assessment areas for full scope review. In making those selections, review prior performance evaluations, available community contact materials, reported lending data and demographic data on each assessment area and consider factors such as: a. The lending, investment, and service activity in the different assessment areas,
- [Wholesale or Limited Purpose Institutions | Performance Context](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/wholesale-or-limited-purpose-institutions-performance-context/) - 1. Review standardized worksheets and other agency information sources to obtain relevant demographic, economic, and loan data, to the extent available, for each assessment area under review. Consider, among other things, whether housing costs are particularly high in relation to area median income. 2. Consider any information the institution may provide on its local community
- [Wholesale or Limited Purpose Institutions | Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/wholesale-or-limited-purpose-institutions-assessment-area/) - 1. Review the institution's stated assessment area(s) to ensure that it: a. Consists of one or more MSAs/MDs or contiguous political subdivisions (i.e., counties, cities, or towns) where the institution has its main office, branches, and deposit-taking ATMs; b. Consists only of whole census tracts; c. Consists of separate delineations for areas that extend substantially
- [Wholesale or Limited Purpose Institutions | Community Development Test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/wholesale-or-limited-purpose-institutions-community-development-test/) - 1. Identify the number and amount of the institution's community development loans, (originations and purchases of loans and any other data the institution chooses to provide), qualified investments, and community development services. Obtain this information through discussions with management, HMDA data collected by the institution, as applicable; investment portfolios; any other relevant financial records; and
- [Wholesale or Limited Purpose Institutions | Ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/wholesale-or-limited-purpose-institutions-ratings/) - 1. Review the analyses of the institution's performance in each assessment area examined, considering only those community development activities that benefit the assessment area(s) and the broader statewide or regional area(s) that include the assessment area(s). 2. Group the analyses of the assessment areas examined by MSA1 and nonmetropolitan areas within each state where the
- [Wholesale or Limited Purpose Institutions | Public File Checklist](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/wholesale-or-limited-purpose-institutions-public-file-checklist/) - 1. There is no need to review each branch or each complete public file during every examination. In determining the extent to which the institution’s public files should be reviewed, consider the institution's record of compliance with the public file requirements in previous examinations, its branching structure and changes to it since its last examination,
- [Wholesale or Limited Purpose Institutions | Ratings Matrix](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/wholesale-or-limited-purpose-institutions-ratings-matrix/) - Community Development Test Characteristic OUTSTANDING SATISFACTORY NEEDS TO IMPROVE SUBSTANTIAL NONCOMPLIANCE Investment, loan, and service activity The institution has a high level of community development loans, community development services, or qualified investments, particularly investments that are not routinely provided by private investors. The institution has
- [Institutions with Strategic Plans | Examination Scope](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/institutions-with-strategic-plans-examination-scope/) - 1. For institutions with more than one assessment area, identify assessment areas for full scope review. To select one or more assessment areas for full scope review, analyze prior performance evaluations, available community contact materials, reported lending data and demographic data on each assessment area and consider factors such as: a. the level of the
- [Institutions with Strategic Plans | Performance Context](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/institutions-with-strategic-plans-performance-context/) - 1. Review the institution's public file for any comments received by the institution or the agency since the last CRA performance evaluation that assists in evaluating the institution's record of meeting plan goals. 2. Consider any information that the institution provides on its record of meeting plan goals. 3. Contact local community, governmental or economic
- [Institutions with Strategic Plans | Performance Criteria](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/institutions-with-strategic-plans-performance-criteria/) - 1. Review the following: a. The approved plan and approved amendments; b. The agency's approval process files; and c. Written comments from the public that the institution or the agency received since the plan became effective. 2. Determine whether the institution achieved its performance goals for each assessment area examined. a. Review the plan's measurable
- [Institutions with Strategic Plans | Ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/institutions-with-strategic-plans-ratings/) - These instructions assume that the strategic plan covers all of the institution's assessment areas. If not, the analysis of performance for the assessment area(s) covered by the strategic plan must be combined with the analyses for assessment areas that were subject to other assessment method(s) in order to assign a rating. 1.Group the analyses of
- [Institutions with Strategic Plans | Public File Checklist](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/institutions-with-strategic-plans-public-file-checklist/) - 1. There is no need to review each branch or each complete public file during every examination. In determining the extent to which the institution's public files should be reviewed, consider the institution's record of compliance with the public file requirements in previous examinations, its branching structure and changes to it since its last examination,
- [What is a community service under CRA?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-a-community-service-under-cra/) - Examples of community services that benefit low- and moderate-income individuals and area include: Providing technical assistance on financial matters to nonprofit, tribal, or government organizations serving low- and moderate-income housing or economic revitalization and development needs Providing technical assistance on financial matters to small businesses or community development organizations, including organizations and individuals who apply
- [Large Institutions | Service Test | Retail Banking Services](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/large-institutions-service-test-retail-banking-services/) - 1. Determine from information available in the institution's public file: a. The distribution of the institution's branches among low-, moderate-, middle-, and upperincome geographies in the institution's assessment area(s); and b. Banking services, including hours of operation and available loan and deposit products. 2. Obtain the institution's explanation for any material differences in the hours
- [Large Institutions | Service Test | Community Development Services](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/large-institutions-service-test-community-development-services/) - For items #1 - #5, see the related article "Large Institutions | Service Test | Community Development Services| 6. Identify the institution's community development services including, at the institution's option, services through affiliates. Hold discussions with management and review available materials. Determine: a. Whether services have been considered under the lending or investments tests:
- [Large Institutions | Ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/large-institutions-ratings/) - 1. Group the analyses of the assessment areas examined by MSA3 and nonmetropolitan areas within each state where the institution has branches. If an institution has branches in two or more states of a multistate MSA, group the assessment areas that are in that multistate MSA. 2. Summarize conclusions regarding the institution's performance in each
- [Large Institutions | Public File Checklist](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/large-institutions-public-file-checklist/) - 1. There is no need to review each branch or each complete public file during every examination. In determining the extent to which the institution's public files will be reviewed, consider the institution's record of compliance with the public file requirements in previous examinations; its branching structure and changes to it since its last examination;
- [Large Institutions | Appendix to CRA Examination Procedures](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/large-institutions-appendix-to-cra-examination-procedures/) - Community Development Loans and Services and Qualified Investments Qualified community development (CD) activities in the assessment area (AA) or the broader statewide or regional area that includes the AA(s) Has a purpose, mandate, or function that includes serving the AA Does not have a purpose, mandate, or function that includes serving the AA
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Lending Test Performance Criteria | Distribution of Credit within Assessment Area(s)](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-lending-test-performance-criteria-distribution-of-credit-within-assessment-areas/) - 1 - Determine whether the number and income distribution of geographies in the assessment area(s) are sufficient for a meaningful analysis of the geographic distribution of the institution’s loans in its assessment area(s). 2 - If a geographic distribution analysis of the institution’s loans would be meaningful and the necessary geographic information (street address or
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Lending Test Performance Criteria | Review of Complaints](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-lending-test-performance-criteria-review-of-complaints/) - 1 - Review all complaints relating to the institution’s CRA performance received by the institution (these should all be contained in the institution’s public file) and those that were received by its supervisory agency. 2 - If there were any complaints, evaluate the institution’s record of taking action, if warranted, in response to written complaints
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Lending Test | Ratings Matrix](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-lending-test-ratings-matrix/) - CHARACTERISTIC OUTSTANDING SATISFACTORY NEEDS TO IMPROVE SUBSTANTIAL NONCOMPLIANCE Loan-to-deposit ratio The loan-to-deposit ratio is more than reasonable (considering seasonal variations and taking into account lending-related activities) given the institution’s size, financial condition, and assessment area credit needs. The loan-to-deposit ratio is reasonable (considering seasonal variations and taking
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Community Development Test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-community-development-test/) - An institution should appropriately assess the needs in its community, engage in different types of community development activities based on those needs and the institution’s capacities, and take reasonable steps to apply its community development resources strategically to meet those needs. The flexibility inherent in the community development test allows intermediate small institutions to focus
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Community Development Test | Rating Matrix](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-community-development-test-rating-matrix/) - OUTSTANDING SATISFACTORY NEEDS TO IMPROVE SUBSTANTIAL NONCOMPLIANCE The institution’s community development performance demonstrates excellent responsiveness to community development needs in its assessment area(s) through community development loans, qualified investments, and community development services, as appropriate, considering the institution’s capacity and the need and availability of such opportunities for community development
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Overall CRA Rating](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-overall-cra-rating/) - 1- Group the analyses of the assessment areas examined by MSA3 and non-MSA areas within each state where the institution has branches. If an institution has branches in two or more states of a multi-state MSA, group the assessment areas that are in that MSA. 2 - Summarize conclusions about the institution’s performance in each
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Public File Checklist](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-public-file-checklist/) - 1 - There is no need to review each branch or each complete public file during every examination. In determining the extent to which the institution’s public files should be reviewed, consider the institution’s record of compliance with the public file requirements in previous examinations, its branching structure and changes to it since its last
- [Large Institutions | Examination Scope](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/large-institutions-examination-scope/) - For institutions (interstate and intrastate) with more than one assessment area, identify assessment areas for a full-scope review. A full-scope review is accomplished when examiners complete all of the procedures for an assessment area. For interstate institutions, a minimum of one assessment area from each state, and a minimum of one assessment area from each
- [Large Institutions | Performance Context](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/large-institutions-performance-context/) - 1. Review standardized worksheets and other agency information sources to obtain relevant demographic, economic, and loan data, to the extent available, for each assessment area under review. Compare the data to similar data for the MSA/MD, county, or state to determine how any similarities or differences will help in evaluating lending, investment, and service opportunities
- [Large Institutions | Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/large-institutions-assessment-area/) - 1. Review the institution's stated assessment area(s) to ensure that it: a. Consists of one or more MSAs/MDs or contiguous political subdivisions (i.e., counties, cities, or towns); b. Includes the geographies where the institution has its main office, branches, and deposittaking (Automated Teller Machines) ATMs, as well as the surrounding geographies in which the institution
- [Large Institutions | Lending Test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/large-institutions-lending-test/) - 1. Identify the institution's loans to be evaluated by reviewing: a. The most recent HMDA and CRA Disclosure Statements, the interim HMDA Loan Application Register (LAR), and any interim CRA loan data collected by the institution; b. A sample of consumer loans if consumer lending represents a substantial majority of the institution's business so that
- [Large Institutions | Investment Test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/large-institutions-investment-test/) - 1. Identify qualified investments by reviewing the institution's investment portfolio, and at the institution's option, its affiliate's investment portfolio. As necessary, obtain a prospectus, or other information that describes the investment(s) and the geographic area(s) or population(s) served. This review should encompass qualified investments, including investments in a broader statewide or regional area and in
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Performance Context](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-performance-context/) - 1 - Review standardized worksheets and other agency information sources to obtain relevant demographic, economic, and loan data, to the extent available, for each assessment area under review. 2 - Obtain for review the Consolidated Reports of Condition (Call Reports) / Thrift Financial Reports (TFR), Uniform Bank Performance Reports (UBPR) / Uniform Thrift Performance Reports
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-assessment-area/) - 1 - Review the institution’s stated assessment area(s) to ensure that it: a - Consists of one or more MSAs/MDs or contiguous political subdivisions (e.g., counties, cities, or towns); b - Includes the geographies where the institution has its main office, branches, and deposit-taking ATMs, as well as the surrounding geographies in which the institution
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Lending Test Performance Criteria | Loan-to-Deposit Analysis](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-lending-test-performance-criteria-loan-to-deposit-analysis/) - 1 - From data contained in Call Reports / TFRs, or UBPRs / UTPRs, calculate the average loan-to-deposit ratio since the last examination by adding the quarterly loan-to-deposit ratios and dividing by the number of quarters. 2 - Evaluate whether the institution’s average loan-to-deposit ratio is reasonable in light of information from the performance context
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Lending Test Performance Criteria | Comparison of Credit Extended Inside and Outside of Assessment Area(s)](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-lending-test-performance-criteria-comparison-of-credit-extended-inside-and-outside-of-assessment-areas/) - 1 - If available, review HMDA data, automated loan reports, and any other reports that may have been generated by the institution to analyze the extent of lending inside and outside of the assessment area(s). If a report generated by the institution is used, test the accuracy of the output. 2 - If loan reports
- [12 CFR §25.42 Data collection, reporting, and disclosure](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-42-data-collection-reporting-and-disclosure/) - §25.42 Data collection, reporting, and disclosure. (a) Loan information required to be collected and maintained. A bank, except a small bank, shall collect, and maintain in machine readable form (as prescribed by the OCC) until the completion of its next CRA examination, the following data for each small business or small farm loan originated or purchased
- [12 CFR §25.43 Content and availability of public file](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-43-content-and-availability-of-public-file/) - §25.43 Content and availability of public file. (a) Information available to the public. A bank shall maintain a public file that includes the following information: (1) All written comments received from the public for the current year and each of the prior two calendar years that specifically relate to the bank's performance in helping to meet
- [12 CFR §25.44 Public notice by banks](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-44-public-notice-by-banks/) - §25.44 Public notice by banks. A bank shall provide in the public lobby of its main office and each of its branches the appropriate public notice set forth in appendix B of this part. Only a branch of a bank having more than one assessment area shall include the bracketed material in the notice for branch
- [12 CFR §25.45 Publication of planned examination schedule](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-45-publication-of-planned-examination-schedule/) - §25.45 Publication of planned examination schedule. The OCC publishes at least 30 days in advance of the beginning of each calendar quarter a list of banks scheduled for CRA examinations in that quarter.
- [12 CFR §25.61 Purpose and scope](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-61-purpose-and-scope/) - §25.61 Purpose and scope. (a) Purpose. The purpose of this subpart is to implement section 109 (12 U.S.C. 1835a) of the Riegle-Neal Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994 (Interstate Act). (b) Scope. (1) This subpart applies to any national bank that has operated a covered interstate branch for a period of at least one
- [12 CFR §25.62 Definitions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-62-definitions/) - §25.62 Definitions. For purposes of this subpart, the following definitions apply: (a) Bank means, unless the context indicates otherwise: (1) A national bank; and (2) A foreign bank as that term is defined in 12 U.S.C. 3101(7) and 12 CFR 28.11(j). (b) Covered interstate branch means: (1) Any branch of a national bank, and any Federal
- [12 CFR §25.63 Loan-to-deposit ratio screen](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-63-loan-to-deposit-ratio-screen/) - §25.63 Loan-to-deposit ratio screen. (a) Application of screen. Beginning no earlier than one year after a covered interstate branch is acquired or established, the OCC will consider whether the bank's statewide loan-to-deposit ratio is less than 50 percent of the relevant host State loan-to-deposit ratio. (b) Results of screen. (1) If the OCC determines that the
- [12 CFR §25.64 Credit needs determination](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-64-credit-needs-determination/) - §25.64 Credit needs determination. (a) In general. The OCC will review the loan portfolio of the bank and determine whether the bank is reasonably helping to meet the credit needs of the communities in the host state that are served by the bank. (b) Guidelines. The OCC will use the following considerations as guidelines when making
- [12 CFR §25.65 Sanctions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-65-sanctions/) - §25.65 Sanctions. (a) In general. If the OCC determines that a bank is not reasonably helping to meet the credit needs of the communities served by the bank in the host state, and that the bank's statewide loan-to-deposit ratio is less than 50 percent of the host state loan-to-deposit ratio, the OCC: (1) May order that
- [Appendix A to Part 25 - Ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/appendix-a-to-part-25-ratings/) - Appendix A to Part 25—Ratings (a) Ratings in general. (1) In assigning a rating, the OCC evaluates a bank's performance under the applicable performance criteria in this part, in accordance with §§25.21 and 25.28. This includes consideration of low-cost education loans provided to low-income borrowers and activities in cooperation with minority- or women-owned financial institutions
- [Appendix B to Part 25 - CRA Notice](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/appendix-b-to-part-25-cra-notice/) - Appendix B to Part 25—CRA Notice (a) Notice for main offices and, if an interstate bank, one branch office in each state. Community Reinvestment Act Notice Under the Federal Community Reinvestment Act (CRA), the Comptroller of the Currency evaluates our record of helping to meet the credit needs of this community consistent with safe and
- [Intermediate Small Institutions | Examination Scope](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/intermediate-small-institutions-examination-scope/) - 1- The retail lending and community development opportunities in the different assessment areas, particularly areas where the need for credit and community development activities is significant; a - The level of the institution’s activity in the different assessment areas, including in low- and moderate-income areas, designated disaster areas, or distressed or underserved non-metropolitan middle-income geographies
- [12 CFR §25.24 Service test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-24-service-test/) - §25.24 Service test. (a) Scope of test. The service test evaluates a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) by analyzing both the availability and effectiveness of a bank's systems for delivering retail banking services and the extent and innovativeness of its community development services. (b) Area(s) benefitted. Community development
- [12 CFR §25.25 Community development test for wholesale or limited purposes banks](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-25-community-development-test-for-wholesale-or-limited-purposes-banks/) - §25.25 Community development test for wholesale or limited purpose banks. (a) Scope of test. The OCC assesses a wholesale or limited purpose bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) under the community development test through its community development lending, qualified investments, or community development services. (b) Designation as a wholesale
- [12 CFR §25.26 Small bank performance standards](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-26-small-bank-performance-standards/) - §25.26 Small bank performance standards. (a) Performance criteria—(1) Small banks that are not intermediate small banks. The OCC evaluates the record of a small bank that is not, or that was not during the prior calendar year, an intermediate small bank, of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) pursuant to the criteria
- [12 CFR §25.27 Strategic Plan](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-27-strategic-plan/) - §25.27 Strategic plan. (a) Alternative election. The OCC will assess a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) under a strategic plan if: (1) The bank has submitted the plan to the OCC as provided for in this section; (2) The OCC has approved the plan; (3) The plan is
- [12 CFR §25.28 Assigned ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-28-assigned-ratings/) - §25.28 Assigned ratings. (a) Ratings in general. Subject to paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, the OCC assigns to a bank a rating of “outstanding,” “satisfactory,” “needs to improve,” or “substantial noncompliance” based on the bank's performance under the lending, investment and service tests, the community development test, the small bank performance standards, or an
- [12 CFR §25.29 Effect of CRA performance on applications](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-29-effect-of-cra-performance-on-applications/) - §25.29 Effect of CRA performance on applications. (a) CRA performance. Among other factors, the OCC takes into account the record of performance under the CRA of each applicant bank in considering an application for: (1) The establishment of a domestic branch; (2) The relocation of the main office or a branch; (3) Under the Bank Merger
- [12 CFR §25.41 Assessment area delineation](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-41-assessment-area-delineation/) - §25.41 Assessment area delineation. (a) In general. A bank shall delineate one or more assessment areas within which the OCC evaluates the bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its community. The OCC does not evaluate the bank's delineation of its assessment area(s) as a separate performance criterion, but the OCC reviews the
- [12 CFR §345.43 Content and availability of public file](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-43-content-and-availability-of-public-file/) - § 345.43 Content and availability of public file. (a) Information available to the public. A bank shall maintain a public file that includes the following information: (1) All written comments received from the public for the current year and each of the prior two calendar years that specifically relate to the bank's performance in helping to
- [12 CFR §345.44 Public notice by banks](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-44-public-notice-by-banks/) - § 345.44 Public notice by banks. A bank shall provide in the public lobby of its main office and each of its branches the appropriate public notice set forth in Appendix B of this part. Only a branch of a bank having more than one assessment area shall include the bracketed material in the notice for
- [12 CFR §345.45 Publication of planned examination schedule](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-45-publication-of-planned-examination-schedule/) - § 345.45 Publication of planned examination schedule. The FDIC publishes at least 30 days in advance of the beginning of each calendar quarter a list of banks scheduled for CRA examinations in that quarter.
- [Appendix A to Part 345 - Ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/appendix-a-to-part-345-ratings/) - Appendix A to Part 345—Ratings (a) Ratings in general. (1) In assigning a rating, the FDIC evaluates a bank's performance under the applicable performance criteria in this part, in accordance with §§345.21 and 345.28. This includes consideration of low-cost education loans provided to low-income borrowers and activities in cooperation with minority- or women-owned financial institutions
- [Appendix B to Part 345 - CRA Notice](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/appendix-b-to-part-345-cra-notice/) - Appendix B to Part 345—CRA Notice (a) Notice for main offices and, if an interstate bank, one branch office in each state. Community Reinvestment Act Notice Under the Federal Community Reinvestment Act (CRA), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) evaluates our record of helping to meet the credit needs of this community consistent with safe
- [12 CFR §25.12 Definitions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-12-definitions/) - §25.12 Definitions. For purposes of this part, the following definitions apply: (a) Affiliate means any company that controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with another company. The term “control” has the meaning given to that term in 12 U.S.C. 1841(a)(2), and a company is under common control with another company if both companies
- [12 CFR §25.21 Performance tests, standards, and ratings, in general](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-21-performance-tests-standards-and-ratings-in-general/) - §25.21 Performance tests, standards, and ratings, in general. (a) Performance tests and standards. The OCC assesses the CRA performance of a bank in an examination as follows: (1) Lending, investment, and service tests. The OCC applies the lending, investment, and service tests, as provided in §§25.22 through 25.24, in evaluating the performance of a bank, except
- [12 CFR §25.22 Lending test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-22-lending-test/) - §25.22 Lending test. (a) Scope of test. (1) The lending test evaluates a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) through its lending activities by considering a bank's home mortgage, small business, small farm, and community development lending. If consumer lending constitutes a substantial majority of a bank's business, the
- [12 CFR §25.23 Investment test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§25-23-investment-test/) - §25.23 Investment test. (a) Scope of test. The investment test evaluates a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) through qualified investments that benefit its assessment area(s) or a broader statewide or regional area that includes the bank's assessment area(s). (b) Exclusion. Activities considered under the lending or service tests
- [12 CFR §345.22 Lending test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-22-lending-test/) - § 345.22 Lending test. (a) Scope of test. (1) The lending test evaluates a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) through its lending activities by considering a bank's home mortgage, small business, small farm, and community development lending. If consumer lending constitutes a substantial majority of a bank's business,
- [12 CFR §345.23 Investment test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-23-investment-test/) - § 345.23 Investment test. (a) Scope of test. The investment test evaluates a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) through qualified investments that benefit its assessment area(s) or a broader statewide or regional area that includes the bank's assessment area(s). (b) Exclusion. Activities considered under the lending or service
- [12 CFR §345.24 Service test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-24-service-test/) - § 345.24 Service test. (a) Scope of test. The service test evaluates a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) by analyzing both the availability and effectiveness of a bank's systems for delivering retail banking services and the extent and innovativeness of its community development services. (b) Area(s) benefited. Community
- [12 CFR §345.25 Community development test for wholesale or limited purpose banks](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-25-community-development-test-for-wholesale-or-limited-purpose-banks/) - § 345.25 Community development test for wholesale or limited purpose banks. (a) Scope of test. The FDIC assesses a wholesale or limited purpose bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) under the community development test through its community development lending, qualified investments, or community development services. (b) Designation as a
- [12 CFR §345.26 Small bank performance standards](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-26-small-bank-performance-standards/) - § 345.26 Small bank performance standards. (a) Performance criteria—(1) Small banks that are not intermediate small banks. The FDIC evaluates the record of a small bank that is not, or that was not during the prior calendar year, an intermediate small bank, of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) pursuant to the
- [12 CFR §345.27 Strategic plan](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-27-strategic-plan/) - § 345.27 Strategic plan. (a) Alternative election. The FDIC will assess a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) under a strategic plan if: (1) The bank has submitted the plan to the FDIC as provided for in this section; (2) The FDIC has approved the plan; (3) The plan
- [12 CFR §345.28 Assigned ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-28-assigned-ratings/) - § 345.28 Assigned ratings. (a) Ratings in general. Subject to paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, the FDIC assigns to a bank a rating of “outstanding,” “satisfactory,” “needs to improve,” or “substantial noncompliance” based on the bank's performance under the lending, investment and service tests, the community development test, the small bank performance standards, or
- [12 CFR §345.29 Effect of CRA performance on applications](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-29-effect-of-cra-performance-on-applications/) - § 345.29 Effect of CRA performance on applications. (a) CRA performance. Among other factors, the FDIC takes into account the record of performance under the CRA of each applicant bank in considering an application for approval of: (1) The establishment of a domestic branch or other facility with the ability to accept deposits; (2) The relocation
- [12 CFR §345.41 Assessment area delineation](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-41-assessment-area-delineation/) - § 345.41 Assessment area delineation. (a) In general. A bank shall delineate one or more assessment areas within which the FDIC evaluates the bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its community. The FDIC does not evaluate the bank's delineation of its assessment area(s) as a separate performance criterion, but the FDIC reviews
- [12 CFR §345.42 Data collection, reporting, and disclosure](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-42-data-collection-reporting-and-disclosure/) - § 345.42 Data collection, reporting, and disclosure. (a) Loan information required to be collected and maintained. A bank, except a small bank, shall collect, and maintain in machine readable form (as prescribed by the FDIC) until the completion of its next CRA examination, the following data for each small business or small farm loan originated or
- [Appendix A to Part 228 - Ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/appendix-a-to-part-228-ratings/) - Appendix A to Part 228—Ratings (a) Ratings in general. (1) In assigning a rating, the Board evaluates a bank's performance under the applicable performance criteria in this part, in accordance with §§228.21 and 228.28. This includes consideration of low-cost education loans provided to low-income borrowers and activities in cooperation with minority- or women-owned financial institutions
- [Appendix B to Part 228 - CRA Notice](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/appendix-b-to-part-228-cra-notice/) - Appendix B to Part 228—CRA Notice (a) Notice for main offices and, if an interstate bank, one branch office in each state. Community Reinvestment Act Notice Under the Federal Community Reinvestment Act (CRA), the Federal Reserve Board (Board) evaluates our record of helping to meet the credit needs of this community consistent with safe and
- [12 CFR §345.12 Definitions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-12-definitions/) - § 345.12 Definitions. For purposes of this part, the following definitions apply: (a) Affiliate means any company that controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with another company. The term control has the meaning given to that term in 12 U.S.C. 1841(a)(2), and a company is under common control with another company if both
- [12 CFR §345.21 Performance tests, standards, and ratings, in general](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§345-21-performance-tests-standards-and-ratings-in-general/) - § 345.21 Performance tests, standards, and ratings, in general. (a) Performance tests and standards. The FDIC assesses the CRA performance of a bank in an examination as follows: (1) Lending, investment, and service tests. The FDIC applies the lending, investment, and service tests, as provided in §§345.22 through 345.24, in evaluating the performance of a bank,
- [12 CFR §228.22 Lending test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-22-lending-test/) - §228.22 Lending test. (a) Scope of test. (1) The lending test evaluates a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) through its lending activities by considering a bank's home mortgage, small business, small farm, and community development lending. If consumer lending constitutes a substantial majority of a bank's business, the
- [12 CFR §228.23 Investment test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-23-investment-test/) - §228.23 Investment test. (a) Scope of test. The investment test evaluates a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) through qualified investments that benefit its assessment area(s) or a broader statewide or regional area that includes the bank's assessment area(s). (b) Exclusion. Activities considered under the lending or service tests
- [12 CFR §228.24 Service test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-24-service-test/) - §228.24 Service test. (a) Scope of test. The service test evaluates a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) by analyzing both the availability and effectiveness of a bank's systems for delivering retail banking services and the extent and innovativeness of its community development services. (b) Area(s) benefitted. Community development
- [12 CFR §228.25 Community development test for wholesale or limited purpose banks](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-25-community-development-test-for-wholesale-or-limited-purpose-banks/) - §228.25 Community development test for wholesale or limited purpose banks. (a) Scope of test. The Board assesses a wholesale or limited purpose bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) under the community development test through its community development lending, qualified investments, or community development services. (b) Designation as a wholesale
- [12 CFR §228.26 Small bank performance standards](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-26-small-bank-performance-standards/) - §228.26 Small bank performance standards. (a) Performance criteria—(1) Small banks that are not intermediate small banks. The Board evaluates the record of a small bank that is not, or that was not during the prior calendar year, an intermediate small bank, of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) pursuant to the criteria
- [12 CFR §228.27 Strategic plan](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-27-strategic-plan/) - §228.27 Strategic plan. (a) Alternative election. The Board will assess a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) under a strategic plan if: (1) The bank has submitted the plan to the Board as provided for in this section; (2) The Board has approved the plan; (3) The plan is
- [12 CFR §228.28 Assigned ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-28-assigned-ratings/) - §228.28 Assigned ratings. (a) Ratings in general. Subject to paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, the Board assigns to a bank a rating of “outstanding,” “satisfactory,” “needs to improve,” or “substantial noncompliance” based on the bank's performance under the lending, investment and service tests, the community development test, the small bank performance standards, or an
- [12 CFR §228.29 Effect of CRA performance on applications](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-29-effect-of-cra-performance-on-applications/) - §228.29 Effect of CRA performance on applications. (a) CRA performance. Among other factors, the Board takes into account the record of performance under the CRA of: (1) Each applicant bank for the: (i) Establishment of a domestic branch by a State member bank; and (ii) Merger, consolidation, acquisition of assets, or assumption of liabilities requiring approval
- [12 CFR §228.41 Assessment area delineation](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-41-assessment-area-delineation/) - §228.41 Assessment area delineation. (a) In general. A bank shall delineate one or more assessment areas within which the Board evaluates the bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its community. The Board does not evaluate the bank's delineation of its assessment area(s) as a separate performance criterion, but the Board reviews the
- [12 CFR §228.42 Data collection, reporting and disclosure](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-42-data-collection-reporting-and-disclosure/) - §228.42 Data collection, reporting, and disclosure. (a) Loan information required to be collected and maintained. A bank, except a small bank, shall collect, and maintain in machine readable form (as prescribed by the Board) until the completion of its next CRA examination, the following data for each small business or small farm loan originated or purchased
- [12 CFR §228.43 Content and availability of public file](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-43-content-and-availability-of-public-file/) - §228.43 Content and availability of public file. (a) Information available to the public. A bank shall maintain a public file that includes the following information: (1) All written comments received from the public for the current year and each of the prior two calendar years that specifically relate to the bank's performance in helping to meet
- [12 CFR §228.44 Public notice by banks](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-44-public-notice-by-banks/) - §228.44 Public notice by banks. A bank shall provide in the public lobby of its main office and each of its branches the appropriate public notice set forth in appendix B of this part. Only a branch of a bank having more than one assessment area shall include the bracketed material in the notice for branch
- [12 CFR §228.45 Publication of planned examination schedule](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-45-publication-of-planned-examination-schedule/) - §228.45 Publication of planned examination schedule. The Board publishes at least 30 days in advance of the beginning of each calendar quarter a list of banks scheduled for CRA examinations in that quarter.
- [12 CFR §228.11 Authority, purposes and scope](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-11-authority-purposes-and-scope/) - §228.11 Authority, purposes, and scope. (a) Authority. The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (the Board) issues this part to implement the Community Reinvestment Act (12 U.S.C. 2901 et seq.) (CRA). The regulations comprising this part are issued under the authority of the CRA and under the provisions of the United States Code authorizing
- [12 CFR §228.12 Definitions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-12-definitions/) - §228.12 Definitions. For purposes of this part, the following definitions apply: (a) Affiliate means any company that controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with another company. The term “control” has the meaning given to that term in 12 U.S.C. 1841(a)(2), and a company is under common control with another company if both companies
- [12 CFR §228.21 Performance tests, standards and ratings, in general](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/12-cfr-§228-21-performance-tests-standards-and-ratings-in-general/) - §228.21 Performance tests, standards, and ratings, in general. (a) Performance tests and standards. The Board assesses the CRA performance of a bank in an examination as follows: (1) Lending, investment, and service tests. The Board applies the lending, investment, and service tests, as provided in §§228.22 through 228.24, in evaluating the performance of a bank, except
- [Small Institutions | Examination Scope](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-examination-scope/) - Examination Scope 1 - For institutions with more than one assessment area, identify assessment areas for full scope review. In making those selections, review prior CRA performance evaluations, available community contact materials, and reported lending data and demographic data on each assessment area. Consider factors such as: a- The lending opportunities in the different assessment
- [Small Institutions | Performance Context](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-performance-context/) - Performance Context 1 - Review standardized worksheets and other agency information sources to obtain relevant demographic, economic and loan data, to the extent available, for each assessment area under review. 2 - Obtain for review the Consolidated Reports of Condition (Call Reports) / Thrift Financial Reports (TFR), Uniform Bank Performance Reports (UBPR) / Uniform Thrift
- [Small Institutions | Performance Context | Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-performance-context-assessment-area/) - Assessment Area 1 - Review the institution’s stated assessment area(s) to ensure that it: a - Consists of one or more MSAs/MDs or contiguous political subdivisions (e.g., counties, cities, or towns); b- Includes the geographies where the institution has its main office, branches, and deposit-taking ATMs, as well as the surrounding geographies in which the
- [Small Institutions | Performance Criteria | Loan-to-Deposit Analysis](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-performance-criteria-loan-to-deposit-analysis/) - Loan-to-Deposit Analysis 1 - From data contained in Call Reports / TFRs, or UBPRs / UTPRs, calculate the average loan-to-deposit ratio since the last examination by adding the quarterly loan-to-deposit ratios and dividing by the number of quarters. 2 - Evaluate whether the institution's average loan-to-deposit ratio is reasonable in light of information from the
- [Small Institutions | Performance Criteria | Comparison of Credit Extended Inside and Outside of the Assessment Area(s)](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-performance-criteria-comparison-of-credit-extended-inside-and-outside-of-the-assessment-areas/) - Comparison of Credit Extended Inside and Outside of the Assessment Area(s) 1 - If available, review HMDA data, automated loan reports, and any other reports that may have been generated by the institution to analyze the extent of lending inside and outside of the assessment area(s). If a report generated by the institution is used,
- [Small Institutions | Performance Criteria | Distribution of Credit Within the Assessment Area(s)](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-performance-criteria-distribution-of-credit-within-the-assessment-areas/) - Distribution of Credit Within the Assessment Area(s) 1 - Determine whether the number and income distribution of geographies in the assessment area(s) are sufficient for a meaningful analysis of the geographic distribution of the institution’s loans in its assessment area(s). 2 - If a geographic distribution analysis of the institution’s loans would be meaningful and
- [Small Institutions | Performance Criteria  Review of Complaints](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-performance-criteria-review-of-complaints/) - Review of Complaints 1 - Review all complaints relating to the institution's CRA performance received by the institution (these should all be contained in the institution's public file) and those that were received by its supervisory agency. 2 - If there were any complaints, evaluate the institution's record of taking action, if warranted, in response
- [Small Institutions | Performance Criteria | Ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-performance-criteria-ratings/) - Ratings 1 - Group the analyses of the assessment areas examined by MSA[1] and nonmetropolitan areas within each state where the institution has branches. If an institution has branches in two or more states of a multi-state MSA, group the assessment areas that are in that MSA. 2 - Summarize conclusions about the institution’s performance
- [Small Institutions | Performance Criteria | Public File Checklist](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-performance-criteria-public-file-checklist/) - Public File Checklist 1 - There is no need to review each branch or each complete public file during every examination. In determining the extent to which the institution’s public files should be reviewed, consider the institution’s record of compliance with the public file requirements in previous examinations, its branching structure and changes to it
- [Small Institutions | CRA Ratings Matrix](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/small-institutions-cra-ratings-matrix/) - CHARACTERISTIC OUTSTANDING SATISFACTORY NEEDS TO IMPROVE SUBSTANTIAL NONCOMPLIANCE Loan-to-deposit ratio The loan-to-deposit ratio is more than reasonable (considering seasonal variations and taking into account lending related activities) given the institution’s size, financial condition, and assessment area credit needs. The loan-to-deposit ratio is reasonable (considering seasonal variations
- [§__.43(b)(1) Maintenance of CRA Disclosure Statement Electronically for Public File](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-43b1-maintenance-of-cra-disclosure-statement-electronically-for-public-file/) - §__.43(b)(1) - 2 Q: May an institution retain its CRA disclosure statement in electronic format in its public file, rather than printing a hard copy of the CRA disclosure statement for retention in its public file? A2. Yes, if the institution can readily print out its CRA disclosure statement from an electronic medium (e.g., CD, DVD, or
- [§__.43(c) Public File Institution Main Office](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-43c-public-file-institution-main-office/) - §__.43(c) - 1 Q: What is an institution's "main office"? A1. An institution's main office is the main, home, or principal office as designated in its charter. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment | July 2016
- [§__.43(c) Maintenance of Public File Online](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-43c-maintenance-of-public-file-online/) - §__.43(c) - 2 Q: May an institution maintain a copy of its public file on an intranet or the Internet? A1. Yes, an institution may keep all or part of its public file on an intranet or the Internet, provided that the institution maintains all of the information, either in paper or electronic form, that is required
- [§__.44 Placement and Size Requirements for CRA Public Notice](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-44-placement-and-size-requirements-for-cra-public-notice/) - §__.44 - 1 Q: Are there any placement or size requirements for an institution's public notice? A1. The notice must be placed in the institution’s public lobby, but the size and placement may vary. The notice should be placed in a location and be of a sufficient size that customers can easily see and read it.
- [§__.45 Agency Publication of Planned CRA Examination Schedule](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-45-agency-publication-of-planned-cra-examination-schedule/) - §__.45 - 1 Q: Where will the Agencies publish the planned examination schedule for the upcoming calendar quarter? A1. The Agencies may use the Federal Register, a press release, the Internet, or other existing Agency publications for disseminating the list of the institutions scheduled for CRA examinations during the upcoming calendar quarter. Interested parties should contact the appropriate
- [§__.45 Inclusion on Planned CRA Examination Schedule Variances](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-45-inclusion-on-planned-cra-examination-schedule-variances/) - §__.45 - 2 Q: Is inclusion on the list of institutions that are schedule to undergo CRA examinations in the next calendar quarter determinative of whether an institution will be examined in that quarter? A2. No. The Agencies attempt to determine as accurately as possible which institutions will be examined during the upcoming calendar quarter. However, whether
- [APPENDIX A to Part __- 1 Performance Fit to Receive Particular Rating](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/appendix-a-to-part-__-1-performance-fit-to-receive-particular-rating/) - APPENDIX A to Part ___ - 1 Q: Must an institution's performance fit each aspect of a particular rating profile in order to receive that rating? A1. No. Exceptionally strong performance in some aspects of a particular rating profile may compensate for weak performance in others. For example, a retail institution other than an intermediate small institution
- [APPENDIX B to Part__-1 Agency Information for CRA Public Notice](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/appendix-b-to-part__-1-agency-information-for-cra-public-notice/) - APPENDIX B to Part ___ - 1 Q: What agency information should be added to the CRA notice form? A1. The following information should be added to the form: OCC-supervised institutions only: For all national banks and Federal savings associations (collectively, banks), in connection with the nationwide list of banks that are scheduled for CRA evaluation in a
- [§__.42(c)(2) CRA Data Collection on Loan Commitments and Letters of Credit](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42c2-cra-data-collection-on-loan-commitments-and-letters-of-credit/) - §__.42(c)(2) - 2 Q: Must an institution collect data on loan commitments and letters of credit? A2. No. Institutions are not required to collect data on loan commitments and letters of credit. Institutions may, however, provide for examiner consideration information on letters of credit and commitments. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment | July 2016
- [§__.42(c)(2) CRA Data Collection on Commercial and Consumer Leases](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42c2-cra-data-collection-on-commercial-and-consumer-leases/) - §__.42(c)(2) - 3 Q: Are commercial and consumer leases considered loans for purposes of CRA data collection? A3. Commercial and consumer leases are not considered small business or small farm loans or consumer loans for purposes of the data collection requirements in 12 CFR .42(a) & (c)(1). However, if an institution wishes to collect and maintain data
- [§__.42(d) Availability of Affiliate Lending Data for CRA Evaluation](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42d-availability-of-affiliate-lending-data-for-cra-evaluation/) - §__.42(d) - 1 Q: If an institution elects to have an affiliate's home mortgage lending considered in its CRA evaluation, what data must the institution make available to examiners? A1. If the affiliate is a HMDA reporter, the institution must identify those loans reported by its affiliate under 12 CFR part 1003 (Regulation C, implementing HMDA). At
- [§__.43(a)(1) Public Comments Received by the Agencies](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-43a1-public-comments-received-by-the-agencies/) - §__.43(a)(1) - 1 Q: What happens to comments received by the Agencies? A1. Comments received by an Agency will be on file at the Agency for use by examiners. Those comments are also available to the public unless they are exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment
- [§__.43(a)(1) Required Institution Response to Received Public Comments](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-43a1-required-institution-response-to-received-public-comments/) - §__.43(a)(1) - 2 Q: Is an institution required to respond to public comments? A2. No. All institutions should review comments and complaints carefully to determine whether any response or other action is warranted. A small institution subject to the small institution performance standards is specifically evaluated on its record of taking action, if warranted, in response to
- [§__.43(a)(2) Inclusion of Institution Response to CRA Public Evaluation in Public File](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-43a2-inclusion-of-institution-response-to-cra-public-evaluation-in-public-file/) - §__.43(a)(2) - 1 Q: May an institution include a response to its CRA performance evaluation in its public file? A1. Yes. However, the format and content of the evaluation, as transmitted by the supervisory Agency, may not be altered or abridged in any manner. In addition, an institution that received a less than satisfactory rating during it
- [§__.43(b)(1) Inclusion of Institution Affiliate Lending Data in Public File](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-43b1-inclusion-of-institution-affiliate-lending-data-in-public-file/) - §__.43(b)(1) - 1 Q: Must an institution that elects to have affiliate lending considering include data on this lending it its public file? A1. Yes. The lending data to be contained in an institution’s public file covers the lending of the institution’s affiliates, as well as of the institution itself, considered in the assessment of the institution’s
- [§__.42(b)(2) Required CRA Data Reporting for Community Development Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42b2-required-cra-data-reporting-for-community-development-loans/) - §__.42(b)(2) - 1 Q: What information about community development loans must institutions report? A1. Institutions subject to data reporting requirements must report the aggregate number and amount of community development loans originated and purchased during the prior calendar year. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment | July 2016
- [§__.42(b)(2) Required Data Reporting - HMDA vs. CRA](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42b2-required-data-reporting-hmda-vs-cra/) - §__.42(b)(2) - 2 Q: If a loan meets the definition of a home mortgage, small business, or small farm loan AND qualifies as a community development loan, where should it be reported? Can Federal Housing Administration, Veterans Affairs, and Small Business Administration loans be reported as community development loans? A2. Except for multifamily affordable housing loans, which
- [§__.42(b)(2) CRA Data Reporting on Affordable Housing Community Development Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42b2-cra-data-reporting-on-affordable-housing-community-development-loans/) - §__.42(b)(2) - 3 Q: When the primary purpose of a loan is to finance an affordable housing project for low- or moderate-income individuals, but, for example, only 40 percent of the units in question will actually be occupied by individuals or families with low or moderate incomes, should the entire loan amount be report as a
- [§__.42(b)(2) CRA Data Reporting on Loan Participations](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42b2-cra-data-reporting-on-loan-participations/) - §__.42(b)(2) - 4 Q: When an institution purchase a participation in a community development loan, which amount should the institution report - the entire amount of the credit originated by the lead lender or the amount of the participation purchased? A4. The institution reports only the amount of the participation purchased as a community development loan. However,
- [§__.42(b)(2) CRA Data Reporting on Community Development Loan Refinances and Renewals](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42b2-cra-data-reporting-on-community-development-loan-refinances-and-renewals/) - §__.42(b)(2) - 5 Q: Should institutions collect and report data about community development loans that are refinanced or renewed? A5. Yes. Institutions should collect information about community development loans that they refinance or renew as loan originations. Community development loan refinancings and renewals are subject to the reporting limitations that apply to refinancings and renewals of small business
- [§__.42(b)(3) CRA Data Collection for Mortgage Loans for non-HMDA Reporters](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42b3-cra-data-collection-for-mortgage-loans-for-non-hmda-reporters/) - §__.42(b)(3) - 1 Q: Must institutions that are not required to collect home mortgage loan data by the HMDA collect home mortgage loan data for purposes of the CRA? A1. No. If an institution is not required to collect home mortgage loan data by the HMDA, the institution need not collect home mortgage loan data under the
- [§__.42(c)(1) CRA Data Requirements for Consumer Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42c1-cra-data-requirements-for-consumer-loans/) - §__.42(c)(1) - 1 Q: What are the data requirements regarding consumer loans? A1. There are no data reporting requirements for consumer loans. Institutions may, however, opt to collect and maintain data on consumer loans. If an institution chooses to collect information on consumer loans, it may collect data for one or more of the following categories of
- [§__.42(c)(1)(iv) CRA Reportable Income Requirements for Consumer Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42c1iv-cra-reportable-income-requirements-for-consumer-loans/) - §__.42(c)(1)(iv) - 1 Q: If an institution does not consider income when making an underwriting decision in connection with a consumer loan, must it collect income information? A1. No. Further, if the institution routinely collects, but does not verify, a borrower’s income when making a credit decision, it need not verify the income for purposes of data
- [§__.42(c)(1)(iv) Reportable Income on Employee Consumer Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42c1iv-reportable-income-on-employee-consumer-loans/) - §__.42(c)(1)(iv) - 2 Q: May an institution list "0" in the income field on consumer loans made to employees when collecting data for CRA purposes as the institution would be permitted to do under HMDA? A2. Yes. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment | July 2016
- [§__.42(c)(1)(iv) Reporting Gross Annual Income on Consumer Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42c1iv-reporting-gross-annual-income-on-consumer-loans/) - §__.42(c)(1)(iv) - 3 Q: When collecting the gross annual income of consumer borrowers, do institutions collect the gross annual income or the adjusted gross annual income of the borrowers? A3. Institutions collect the gross annual income, rather than the adjusted gross annual income, of consumer borrowers. The purpose of income data collection in connection with consumer loans
- [§__.42(c)(1)(iv) Reportable Income on Consumer Loans with Multiple Borrowers](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42c1iv-reportable-income-on-consumer-loans-with-multiple-borrowers/) - §__.42(c)(1)(iv) - 4 Q: Whose income does an institution collect when a consumer loan is made to more than one borrower? A4. An institution that chooses to collect and maintain information on consumer loans collects the gross annual income of all primary obligors for consumer loans, to the extent that the institution considered the income of the
- [§__.42(c)(2) CRA Data Collection on Commercial Loans Secured by Residential Real Estate](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42c2-cra-data-collection-on-commercial-loans-secured-by-residential-real-estate/) - §__.42(c)(2) - 1 Q: Call Report Schedule RC-C, Part II does not allow institutions to report loans for commercial and industrial purposes that are secured by residential real estate, unless the security interest in the nonfarm residential real estate is taken only as an abundance of caution. (See Q&As §__.12(v) - 3) Loans extended to small
- [§__.42(a)(4) Determination of Small Business Gross Annual Revenues Indicator](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a4-determination-of-small-business-gross-annual-revenues-indicator/) - §__.42(a)(4) - 1 Q: When indicating whether a small business borrower had gross annual revenues of $1 million or less, upon what revenues should an institution rely? A1. Generally, an institution should rely on the revenues that it considered in making its credit decision. For example, in the case of affiliated businesses, such as a parent corporation
- [§__.42(a)(4) CRA Data Collection of Small Business Gross Annual Revenues](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a4-cra-data-collection-of-small-business-gross-annual-revenues/) - §__.42(a)(4) - 2 Q: If an institution that is not exempt from data collection and reporting does not request or consider revenue information to make the credit decision regarding a small business or small farm loan, must the institution collect revenue information in connection with that loan? A2. No. In those instances, the institution should enter the
- [§__.42(a)(4) Gross Annual Revenue Determination for Small Business Start-up](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a4-gross-annual-revenue-determination-for-small-business-start-up/) - §__.42(a)(4) - 3 Q: What gross revenue should an institution use in determine the gross annual revenue of a start-up business? A3. The institution should use the actual gross annual revenue to date (including $0 if the new business has had no revenue to date). Although a start-up business will provide the institution with pro forma projected revenue
- [§__.42(a) Gross Annual Revenue Versus Adjusted Gross Annual Revenue](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-gross-annual-revenue-versus-adjusted-gross-annual-revenue/) - §__.42(a)(4) - 4 Q: When indicating the gross annual revenue of small business or small farm borrowers, do institution rely on the gross annual revenue or the adjusted gross annual renew of their borrowers? A4. Institutions rely on the gross annual revenue, rather than the adjusted gross annual revenue, of their small business or small farm borrowers
- [§__.42(b)(1) Required CRA Data Reporting](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42b1-required-cra-data-reporting/) - §__.42(b)(1) - 1 Q: For small business and small farm loan information that is collected and maintained, what dat should be report? A1. Each institution that is not exempt from data collection and reporting is required to report in machine-readable form annually by March 1 the following information, aggregated for each census tract in which the institution
- [§__.42(a) CRA Data Collection on Commercial Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-cra-data-collection-on-commercial-loans/) - §__.42(a) - 1 Q: Must institutions collect and report data on all commercial loans of $1 million or less at origination? A1. No. Institutions that are not exempt from data collection and reporting are required to collect and report only those commercial loans that they capture in Call Report Schedule RC-C, Part II. Small business loans are
- [§__.42(a) CRA Data Collection for Small Business Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-cra-data-collection-for-small-business-loans/) - §__.42(a) - 2 Q: For loans defined as small business loans, what informations would be collected and maintained? A2. Institutions that are not exempt from data collection and reporting are required to collect and maintain, in a standardized, machine-readable format, information on each small business loan originated or purchased for each calendar year: A unique number or
- [§__.42(a) CRA Data Segregation for Small Farm Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-cra-data-segregation-for-small-farm-loans/) - §__.42(a) - 3 Q: Will farm loans need to be segregated from business loans? A3. Yes. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment | July 2016
- [§__.42(a) CRA Data Collection for Agricultural Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-cra-data-collection-for-agricultural-loans/) - §__.42(a) - 4 Q: Should institutions collect and report data on all agricultural loans of $500,000 or less at origination? A4. Institutions are to report those farm loans that they capture in Call Report Schedule RC-C, Part II. Small farm loans are defined as those whose original amounts are $500,000 or less and were reported as either “Loans
- [§__.42(a) CRA Data Collection for Small Business & Farm Loan Refinances & Renewals](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-cra-data-collection-for-small-business-farm-loan-refinances-renewals/) - §__.42(a) - 5 Q: Should institutions collect and report data about small business and small farm loans that are refinanced or renewed? A5. An institution should collect information about small business and small farm loans that it refinances or renews as loan originations. (A refinancing generally occurs when the existing loan obligation or note is satisfied and a new
- [§__.42(a) CRA Data Collection on Fishing Industry Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-cra-data-collection-on-fishing-industry-loans/) - §__.42(a) - 6 Q: Does a loan to the "fishing industry" come under the definition of small farm loan? A6. Yes. Instructions for Call Report Schedule RC-C, Part I include loans “made for the purpose of financing fisheries and forestries, including loans to commercial fishermen” as a component of the definition for “Loans to finance agricultural
- [§__.42(a) CRA Data Reporting on Home Equity Loan with Home Improvement & Small Business Purposes](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-cra-data-reporting-on-home-equity-loan-with-home-improvement-small-business-purposes/) - §__.42(a) - 7 Q: How should an institution report a home equity line of credit, part of which is for home improvement purposes and part of which is for small business purposes? A7. When an institution originates a home equity line of credit that is for both home improvement and small business purposes, the institution has the
- [§__.42(a) CRA Data Collection on Non-Domestic Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-cra-data-collection-on-non-domestic-loans/) - §__.42(a) - 8 Q: When collecting small business and small farm data on CRA purposes, may an institution collect and report information about loans to small businesses and small farms located outside the United States? A8. At an institution’s option, it may collect data about small business and small farm loans located outside the United States; however,
- [§__.42(a) CRA Data Reporting When No Loans Were Originated](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-cra-data-reporting-when-no-loans-were-originated/) - §__.42(a) - 9 Q: Is an institution that has no small farm or small business loans required to report under CRA? A9. Each institution subject to data reporting requirements must, at a minimum, submit a transmittal sheet, definition of its assessment area(s), and a record of its community development loans. If the institution does not have community
- [§__.42(a) CRA Data Reporting for P.O. Boxes and Rural Routes](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a-cra-data-reporting-for-p-o-boxes-and-rural-routes/) - §__.42(a) - 10 Q: How should an institution collect and report the location of a loan made to a small business or farm if the borrower provides an address that consists of a post office box number or a rural route and box number? A10. Prudent banking practices and Bank Secrecy Act regulations dictate that institutions know
- [§__.42(a)(2) Reportable Loan Amount at Loan Purchase](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a2-reportable-loan-amount-at-loan-purchase/) - §__.42(a)(2) - 1 Q: When an institution purchases a small business or small farm loan, in whole or in part, which amount should the institution collect and report - the original amount of the loan or the amount of the purchase? A1. When collecting and reporting information on purchased small business and small farm loans, including loan
- [§__.42(a)(2) CRA Data Collection for Multiple Loans to Same Small Business](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a2-cra-data-collection-for-multiple-loans-to-same-small-business/) - §__.42(a)(2) - 2 Q: How should an institution collect data about multiple loan originations to the same business? A2. If an institution makes multiple originations to the same business, the loans should be collected and reported as separate originations rather than combined and reported as they are on the Call Report, which reflects loans outstanding, rather than
- [§__.42(a)(2) CRA Data Collection for Small Business Credit Cards](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a2-cra-data-collection-for-small-business-credit-cards/) - §__.42(a)(2) - 3 Q: How should an institution collect data pertaining to credit cards issued to small businesses? A3. If an institution agrees to issue credit cards to a business’s employees, all of the credit card lines opened on a particular date for that single business should be reported as one small business loan origination rather than
- [§__.42(a)(3) Reportable Loan Location](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42a3-reportable-loan-location/) - §__.42(a)(3) - 1 Q: Which location should an institution record if a small business loan's proceeds are used in a variety of locations? A1. The institution should record the loan location by either the location of the small business borrower’s headquarters or the location where the greatest portion of the proceeds are applied, as indicated by the
- [§__.42 Required CRA Data Collection Format](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42-required-cra-data-collection-format/) - §__.42 - 2 Q: Should an institution develop its own program for data collection, or will the regulators require a certain format? A2. An institution may use the free software that is provided by the FFIEC to reporting institutions for data collection and reporting or develop its own program. Those institutions that develop their own programs may
- [§__.42 CRA Data Collection for Lines of Credit](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42-cra-data-collection-for-lines-of-credit/) - §__.42 - 3 Q: How should an institution report data on lines of credit? A3. Institutions must collect and report data on lines of credit in the same way that they provide data on loan originations. Lines of credit are considered originated at the time the line is approved or increased; and an increase is considered a
- [§__.42 CRA Data Collection for Line of Credit Renewals](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42-cra-data-collection-for-line-of-credit-renewals/) - §__.42 - 4 Q: Should renewals of lines of credit be collected and/or reported? A4. Renewals of lines of credit for small business, small farm, consumer, or community development purposes should be collected and reported, if applicable, in the same manner as renewals of small business or small farm loans. See Q&A §__.42(a) - 5 Institutions that are HMDA
- [§__.42 CRA Data Collection for Merging Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42-cra-data-collection-for-merging-institutions/) - §__.42 - 5 Q: When should merging institutions collect data? A5. Three scenarios of data collection responsibilities for the calendar year of a merger and subsequent data reporting responsibilities are described below. Two institutions are exempt from CRA collection and reporting requirements because of asset size. The institutions merge. No data collection is required for the year
- [§__.42 CRA Data Collection Software for Small Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42-cra-data-collection-software-for-small-institutions/) - §__.42 - 6 Q: Can small institutions get a copy of the data collection software even though they are not required to collect or report data? A6. Yes. Any institution that is interested in receiving a copy of the software may download it from the FFIEC Web site at https://www.ffiec.gov/cra. For assistance, institutions may send an e-mail
- [§__.42 Wholesale and Limited Purpose CRA Data Collection Requirements](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42-wholesale-and-limited-purpose-cra-data-collection-requirements/) - §__.42 - 7 Q: If a small institution is designated a wholesale or limited purpose institution, must it collect data that it would not otherwise be required to collect because it is a small institution? A7. No. However, small institutions that are designated as wholesale or limited purpose institutions must be prepared to identify those loans, investments,
- [§__.29(b) Effect of Interested Parties Comments on Bank Application](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-29b-effect-of-interested-parties-comments-on-bank-application/) - §__.29(b) - 1 Q: What consideration is given to comments from interested parties in reviewing an application? A1. Materials relating to CRA performance received during the application process can provide valuable information. Written comments, which may express either support for or opposition to the application, are made a part of the record in accordance with the Agencies’ procedures, and
- [§__.29(b) Requirements to Enter Agreements with Private Parties](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-29b-requirements-to-enter-agreements-with-private-parties/) - §__.29(b) - 2 Q: Is the institution required to enter into agreements with private parties? A2. No. Although communications between an institution and members of its community may provide a valuable method for the institution to assess how best to address the credit needs of the community, the CRA does not require an institution to enter into
- [§__.41(a) Evaluation of Assessment Areas](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-41a-evaluation-of-assessment-areas/) - §__.41(a) - 1 Q: How do the Agencies evaluate "assessment areas" under the CRA regulations? A1. The rule focuses on the distribution and level of an institution’s lending, investments, and services rather than on how and why an institution delineated its assessment area(s) in a particular manner. Therefore, the Agencies will not evaluate an institution’s delineation of
- [§__.41(a) Institution Affiliate Impact on Assessment Areas](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-41a-institution-affiliate-impact-on-assessment-areas/) - §__.41(a) - 2 Q: If an institution elects to have the Agencies consider affiliate lending, will this decision affect the institution's assessment area(s)? A2. If an institution elects to have the lending activities of its affiliates considered in the evaluation of the institution’s lending, the geographies in which the affiliate lends do not affect the institution’s delineation
- [§__.41(a) Selecting a Specific Racial or Ethnic Group in Place of Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-41a-selecting-a-specific-racial-or-ethnic-group-in-place-of-assessment-area/) - §__.41(a) - 3 Q: Can a financial institution identify a specific racial or ethnic group rather than a geographic area as its assessment area? A3. No, assessment areas must be based on geography. The only exception to the requirement to delineate an assessment area based on geography is that an institution, the business of which predominantly consists
- [§__.41(c)(1) Other Units of Local Governments as Political Subdivisions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-41c1-other-units-of-local-governments-as-political-subdivisions/) - §__.41(c)(1) - 1 Q: Besides cities, towns, and counties, what other units of local government are political subdivisions for CRA purposes? A1. Townships and Indian reservations are political subdivisions for CRA purposes. Institutions should be aware that the boundaries of townships and Indian reservations may not be consistent with the boundaries of the census tracts (i.e., geographies)
- [§__.41(c)(1) Wards and Districts as Political Subdivisions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-41c1-wards-and-districts-as-political-subdivisions/) - §__.41(c)(1) - 2 Q: Are wards, school districts, voting districts, and water districts political subdivisions for CRA purposes? A2. No. However, an institution that determines that it predominantly serves an area that is smaller than a city, town, or other political subdivision may delineate as its assessment area the larger political subdivision and then, in accordance with
- [§__.41(d) Adjustment to the Boundaries of an Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-41d-adjustment-to-the-boundaries-of-an-assessment-area/) - §__.41(d) - 1 Q: When may an institution adjust the boundaries of an assessment area to include only a portion of a political subdivision? A1. Institutions must include whole geographies (i.e., census tracts) in their assessment areas and generally should include entire political subdivisions. Because census tracts are the common geographic areas used consistently nationwide for data collection,
- [§__.41(e)(3) Arbitrary Exclusion of LMI Geographies in an Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-41e3-arbitrary-exclusion-of-lmi-geographies-in-an-assessment-area/) - §__.41(e)(3) - 1 Q: How will examiners determine whether an institution has arbitrarily excluded low- or moderate-income geographies? A1. Examiners will make this determination on a case-by-case basis after considering the facts relevant to the institution’s assessment area delineation. Information that examiners will consider may include income levels in the institution’s assessment area(s) and surrounding geographies; locations of
- [§__.41(e)(4) Maximum Size Limits on an Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-41e4-maximum-size-limits-on-an-assessment-area/) - §__.41(e)(4) - 1 Q: What are the maximum limits on the size of an assessment area? A1. An institution may not delineate an assessment area extending substantially across the boundaries of an MSA unless the MSA is in a combined statistical area (CSA)). Although more than one MSA in a CSA may be delineated as a single
- [§__.41(3) & (4) Inclusion of an MSA and Adjacent Counties in a Single Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-413-4-inclusion-of-an-msa-and-adjacent-counties-in-a-single-assessment-area/) - §__.41(e)(4) - 2 Q: May an institution delineate one assessment area that consists of an MSA and two large counties that abut the MSA but are not adjacent to each other? A2. As a general rule, an institution’s assessment area should not extend substantially beyond the boundary of an MSA. Therefore, the MSA would be a separate
- [§__.42 Required CRA Data Collection and Reporting](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-42-required-cra-data-collection-and-reporting/) - §__.42 - 1 Q: When must an institution collect and report data under the CRA regulations? A1. All institutions except small institutions are subject to data collection and reporting requirements. (“Small institution” is defined in the Agencies’ CRA regulations at 12 CFR .12(u).) Examples describing the data collection requirements of institutions, in particular those that have just
- [§__.28(a) Ratings for Institutions Operating in a Single State](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-28a-ratings-for-institutions-operating-in-a-single-state/) - §__.28(a) - 2 Q: How are institutions that operate within only a single state assigned a rating? A2. An institution that operates within only a single state (“single-state institution”) will be assigned a rating of its CRA record based on its performance within that state. In assigning this rating, the Agencies will separately present a single-state institution’s performance
- [§__.28(a) Performance Weights for Large Retail Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-28a-performance-weights-for-large-retail-institutions/) - §__.28(a) - 3 Q: How do the Agencies weight performance under the lending, investment, and service test for large retail institutions? A3. A rating of “outstanding,” “high satisfactory,” “low satisfactory,” “needs to improve,” or “substantial noncompliance,” based on a judgment supported by facts and data, will be assigned under each performance test. Points will then be assigned to each
- [§__.28(b) Performance Weight of Quantitative and Qualitative Criteria](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-28b-performance-weight-of-quantitative-and-qualitative-criteria/) - §__.28(b) - 1 Q: How is performance under the quantitative and qualitative performance criteria weighted when examiners assign a CRA rating? A1. The lending, investment, and service tests each contain a number of performance criteria designed to measure whether an institution is effectively helping to meet the credit needs of its entire community, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods,
- [§__28(c) Discriminatory or Other Illegal Credit Practices Definition](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__28c-discriminatory-or-other-illegal-credit-practices-definition/) - §__.28(c) - 1 Q: What is meant by "discriminatory or other illegal credit practices"? A1. An institution engages in discriminatory credit practices if it discourages or discriminates against credit applicants or borrowers on a prohibited basis, in violation, for example, of the Fair Housing Act or the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (as implemented by Regulation B). Examples
- [§__.29(a) CRA Rating Effect on Bank Applications](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-29a-cra-rating-effect-on-bank-applications/) - §__.29(a) - 1 Q: What weight is given to an institution's CRA performance examination in reviewing an application? A1. In reviewing applications in which CRA performance is a relevant factor, information from a CRA examination of the institution is a particularly important consideration. The examination is a detailed evaluation of the institution’s CRA performance by its supervisory
- [§__.29(a) Effect of Future Commitments on a Bank Application](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-29a-effect-of-future-commitments-on-a-bank-application/) - §__.29(a) - 2 Q: What consideration is given to an institution's commitments for future action in reviewing an application by those Agencies that consider such commitments? A2. Commitments for future action are not viewed as part of the CRA record of performance. In general, institutions cannot use commitments made in the applications process to overcome a seriously
- [§__26(b)(2) Small Institution Lending Percentage in Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__26b2-small-institution-lending-percentage-in-assessment-area/) - §__.26(b)(2) - 1 Q: Must a small institution have a majority of its lending in its assessment area(s) to receive a satisfactory performance rating? A1. No. The percentage of loans and, as appropriate, other lending-related activities located in the institution’s assessment area(s) is but one of the performance criteria upon which small institutions are evaluated. If
- [§__.26(b)(3) & (4) Small Institution Loan Distribution Performance](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26b3-4-small-institution-loan-distribution-performance/) - §__.26(b)(3) & (4) - 1 Q: How will a small institution's performance be assessed under these lending distribution criteria [borrower income and geographic location]? A1. Distribution of loans, like other small institution performance criteria, is considered in light of the performance context. For example, a small institution is not required to lend evenly throughout its assessment area(s)
- [§__.26(c) Intermediate Small Institution Community Development Test Flexibility](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26c-intermediate-small-institution-community-development-test-flexibility/) - §__.26(c) - 1 Q: How will the community development test be applied flexibly for intermediate small institutions? A1. Generally, intermediate small institutions engage in a combination of community development loans, qualified investments, and community development services. An institution may not simply ignore one or more of these categories of community development, nor do the regulations prescribe a
- [§__.26(c)(3) Intermediate Small Institution Service Evaluation](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26c3-intermediate-small-institution-service-evaluation/) - §__.26(c)(3) - 1 Q: What will examiners consider when evaluating the provision of community development services by an intermediate small institution? A1. In addition to the examples listed in Q&A § .12(i) – 3, examiners will consider retail banking services as community development services if they provide benefit to low- or moderate-income individuals. Examples include: low-cost deposit
- [§__.26(c)(4) Intermediate Small Institution Responsiveness](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26c4-intermediate-small-institution-responsiveness/) - §__.26(c)(4) - 1 Q: When evaluating an intermediate small institution's community development record, what will examiners consider when reviewing the responsiveness of community development lending, qualified investments, and community development services to the community development needs of the area? A1. When evaluating an intermediate small institution’s community development record, examiners will consider not only quantitative measures of
- [§__.26(d) Small Institution Achievement of Outstanding Rating](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26d-small-institution-achievement-of-outstanding-rating/) - §__.26(d) - 1 Q: How can a small institution that is not an intermediate small institution achieve an "outstanding" performance rating? A1. A small institution that is not an intermediate small institution that meets each of the standards in the lending test for a “satisfactory” rating and exceeds some or all of those standards may warrant an
- [§__.26(d) Small Institution Activities Outside Assessment Areas](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26d-small-institution-activities-outside-assessment-areas/) - §__.26(d) - 2 Q: Will a small institution's qualified investments, community development loans, and community development services be considered if they do not directly benefit its assessment area(s)? A2. Yes. These activities are eligible for consideration if they benefit a benefit a broader statewide or regional area that includes a small institution's assessment area(s), as discussed more
- [§__.27(c) Agency Guidance during Strategic Plan Development](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-27c-agency-guidance-during-strategic-plan-development/) - §__.27(c) - 1 Q: To what extent will the Agencies provide guidance to an institution during the development of its strategic plan? A1. An institution will have an opportunity to consult with and provide information to the Agencies on a proposed strategic plan. Through this process, an institution is provided guidance on procedures and on the information
- [§__.27(c) Evaluation of Joint Strategic Plans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-27c-evaluation-of-joint-strategic-plans/) - §__.27(c) - 2 Q: How will a joint strategic plan be reviewed if the affiliates have different primary Federal supervisors? A2. The Agencies will coordinate review of and action on the joint plan. Each Agency will evaluate the measurable goals for those affiliates for which it is the primary regulator. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community
- [§__.27(f) Strategic Plan Measurable Goals](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-27f-strategic-plan-measurable-goals/) - §__.27(f) - 1 Q: How should annual measurable goals be specified in a strategic plan? A1. Annual measurable goals (e.g., number of loans, dollar amount, geographic location of activity, and benefit to low- and moderate-income areas or individuals) must be stated with sufficient specificity to permit the public and the Agencies to quantify what performance will be expected.
- [§__.27(g)(3) Public Notice of Proposed Strategic Plan](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-27g3-public-notice-of-proposed-strategic-plan/) - §__.27(g)(2) - 1 Q: How will the public receive notice of a proposed strategic plan? A1. An institution submitting a strategic plan for approval by the Agencies is required to solicit public comment on the plan for a period of 30 days after publishing notice of the plan at least once in a newspaper of general circulation. The
- [§__.28 Requirements for Innovative Practices to Achieve Certain Ratings](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-28-requirements-for-innovative-practices-to-achieve-certain-ratings/) - §__.28 - 1 Q: Are innovative lending practices, innovative or complex qualified investments, and innovative community development services required for a "satisfactory" or "outstanding" CRA rating? A1. No. The performance criterion of “innovativeness” applies only under the lending, investment, and service tests applicable to large institutions and the community development test applicable to wholesale and limited purpose
- [§__.28(a) Ratings for Domestic Branches in More Than One State](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-28a-ratings-for-domestic-branches-in-more-than-one-state/) - §__.28(a) - 1 Q: How are institutions with domestic branches in more than one state assigned a rating? A1. The evaluation of an institution that maintains domestic branches in more than one state (“multistate institution”) will include a written evaluation and rating of its CRA record of performance as a whole and in each state in which
- [§__.26(b) Small Institution Loan Originations and Purchases](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26b-small-institution-loan-originations-and-purchases/) - §__.26(b) - 4 Q: Under the small institution lending test performance standards, will examiners consider both loan originations and purchases? A4. Yes, consistent with the other assessment methods in the regulation, examiners will consider both loans originated and purchased by the institution. Likewise, examiners may consider any other loan data the small institution chooses to provide, including
- [§__.26(b) Small Institution Qualified Investments](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26b-small-institution-qualified-investments/) - §__.26(b) - 5 Q: Under the small institution lending test performance standards, how will qualified investments be considered for purposes of determining whether a small institution receives a satisfactory CRA rating? A5. The small institution lending test performance standards focus on lending and other lending-related activities. Therefore, examiners will consider only lending- related qualified investments for the
- [§__.26(b)(1) Loan-to-Deposit Ratio Calculation](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26b1-loan-to-deposit-ratio-calculation/) - §__.26(b)(1) - 1 Q: How is the loan-to-deposit ratio calculated? A1. A small institution’s loan-to-deposit ratio is calculated in the same manner that the Uniform Bank Performance Report (UBPR) determines the ratio. It is calculated by dividing the institution’s net loans and leases by its total deposits. The ratio is found in the Liquidity and Investment Portfolio section
- [§__.26(b)(1) Loan-to-Deposit Ratio Reasonableness](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26b1-loan-to-deposit-ratio-reasonableness/) - §__.26(b)(1) - 2 Q: How is the "reasonableness" of a loan-to-deposit ratio evaluated? A2. No specific ratio is reasonable in every circumstance, and each small institution’s ratio is evaluated in light of information from the performance context, including the institution’s capacity to lend, demographic and economic factors present in the assessment area(s), and the lending opportunities available in
- [§__.26(b)(1) Off-shore Loans in Loan-to-Deposit Ratio](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26b1-off-shore-loans-in-loan-to-deposit-ratio/) - §__.26(b)(1) - 3 Q: If an institution makes a large number of loans off-shore, will examiners segregate the domestic loan-to-deposit ratio from the foreign loan-to-deposit ratio? A3. No. Examiner will look at the institution's net loan-to-deposit ratio for the whole institution, without any adjustments. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment | July 2016
- [§__.24(d)(3) Alternative Systems for Delivering Retail Banking Services](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-24d3-alternative-systems-for-delivering-retail-banking-services/) - §__.24(d)(3) - 1 Q: How do examiners evaluate alternative systems for delivering retail banking services? A1. There are a number of alternative systems used by financial institutions to deliver retail banking services to customers. Non-branch delivery systems, such as ATMs, online and mobile banking, and other means by which institutions provide services to their customers evolve over time. No matter the
- [§__.24(d)(3) Debit Cards as Alternative Delivery System](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-24d3-debit-cards-as-alternative-delivery-system/) - §__.24(d)(3) - 2 Q: Are debit cards considered under the service test as an alternative delivery system? A2. By themselves, no. However, if debit cards are a part of a larger combination of products, such as a comprehensive electronic banking service, that allows an institution to deliver needed services to low- and moderate-income areas and individuals in its
- [§__.24(d)(4) Evaluation of Services and Tailoring to Meet Community Needs](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-24d4-evaluation-of-services-and-tailoring-to-meet-community-needs/) - §__.24(d)(4) - 1 Q: How do examiners evaluate the range of services provided in low-, moderate-, middle-, and upper-income geographies and the degree to which those services are tailored to meet the needs of those geographies? A1. Examiners review both information from the institution’s public file and other information provided related to the range of services offered
- [§__24(e) Community Development Services by Affiliates or Third Parties](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__24e-community-development-services-by-affiliates-or-third-parties/) - §__.24(e) - 1 Q: Under what conditions may an institution receive consideration for community development services offered by affiliates or third parties? A1. At an institution’s option, the Agencies will consider services performed by an affiliate or by a third party on the institution’s behalf under the service test if the services provided enable the institution to
- [§__.24(e) Quantitative and Qualitative Factors in Service Evaluation](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-24e-quantitative-and-qualitative-factors-in-service-evaluation/) - §__.24(e) - 2 Q: In evaluating community development services, what quantitative and qualitative factors do examiners review? A2. The community development services criteria are important factors in the evaluation of a large institution’s service test performance. According to the regulation, the Agencies evaluate the extent to which the financial institution provides community development services as well as
- [§__.25(a) Credit Card Bank Exemption](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-25a-credit-card-bank-exemption/) - §__.25(a) - 1 Q: How can certain credit card banks help to meet the credit needs of their communities without losing their exemption from the definition of "bank" in the Bank Holding Company Act (BHCA), as amended by the Competitive Equality Banking Act of 1987 (CEBA)? A1. Although the BHCA restricts institutions known as CEBA credit card
- [§__.25(d) Investments in Third-Party Community Development Organizations](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-25d-investments-in-third-party-community-development-organizations/) - §__.25(d) - 1 Q: How are investments in third-party community development organizations considered under the community development test? A1. Similar to the lending test for retail institutions, investments in third-party community development organizations may be considered as qualified investments or as community development loans or both (provided there is no double counting), at the institution’s option, as described
- [§__.25(e) Wholesale or Limited Purpose Institution Investment in Nationwide Fund](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-25e-wholesale-or-limited-purpose-institution-investment-in-nationwide-fund/) - §__.25(e) - 1 Q: How do examiners evaluate a wholesale or limited purpose institution's qualified investment in a fund that invested in projects nationwide and which has a primary purpose of community development, as this is defined in the regulations? A1. If examiners find that a wholesale or limited purpose institution has adequately addressed the needs of its
- [§__.25(f) Wholesale or Limited Purpose Institution Performance Rating](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-25f-wholesale-or-limited-purpose-institution-performance-rating/) - §__.25(f) - 1 Q: Must a wholesale or limited purpose institution engage in all three categories of community development activities (lending, investment, and service) to perform well under the community development test? A1. No, a wholesale or limited purpose institution may perform well under the community development test by engaging in one or more of these activities.
- [§__.26 Small Institution Performance Standards for Affiliate Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26-small-institution-performance-standards-for-affiliate-activities/) - §__.26 - 1 Q: When evaluating a small or intermediate small institution's performance, will examiners consider, at the institution's request, retail and community development loans originated or purchased by affiliates, qualified investments made by affiliates, or community development services provided by affiliates? A1. Yes. However, a small institution that elects to have examiners consider affiliate activities must
- [§__.26(a)(2) Intermediate Small Institution Determination](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26a2-intermediate-small-institution-determination/) - §__.26(a)(2) - 1 Q: When is an institution examined as an intermediate small institution? A1. When a small institution has met the intermediate small institution asset threshold delineated in 12 CFR .12(u)(1) for two consecutive calendar year-ends, the institution may be examined under the intermediate small institution examination procedures. The regulation does not specify an additional lag period
- [§__.26(b) Small Institution Lending-Related Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26b-small-institution-lending-related-activities/) - §__.26(b) - 1 Q: May examiners consider, under one or more of the performance criteria of the small institution performance standards, lending-related activities, such as community development loans and lending-related qualified investments, when evaluating a small institution? A1. Yes. Examiners can consider “lending-related activities,” including community development loans and lending-related qualified investments, when evaluating the first four
- [§__.26(b) Appropriate Small Institution Lending-Related Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26b-appropriate-small-institution-lending-related-activities/) - §__.26(b) - 2 Q: What is meant by "as appropriate" when referring to the fact that lending-related activities will be considered, "as appropriate," under the various small institutions performance criteria? A2. “As appropriate” means that lending-related activities will be considered when it is necessary to determine whether an institution meets or exceeds the standards for a satisfactory
- [§__.26(b) Small Institution Purchases of Consortium Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-26b-small-institution-purchases-of-consortium-loans/) - §__.26(b) - 3 Q: When evaluating a small institution's lending performance, will examiners consider, at the institution's request, community development loans originated or purchased by a consortium in which the institution participates or by a third party in which the institution has invested? A3. Yes. However, a small institution that elects to have examiners consider community development
- [§__.23(b) Mortgage-Backed Securities Comprised of HMDA-Reported Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-23b-mortgage-backed-securities-comprised-of-hmda-reported-loans/) - §__.23(b) - 2 Q: If home mortgage loans to low- and moderate-income borrowers have been considered under an institution's lending test, may the institution that originated or purchased them also receive consideration under the investment these if it subsequently purchases mortgage-backed securities that are primarily or exclusively backed by such loans? A2. No. Because the institution received
- [§__.23(e) Distinguishing Qualified Investments Based on Actual Community Development Purpose](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-23e-distinguishing-qualified-investments-based-on-actual-community-development-purpose/) - §__.23(e) - 1 Q: When applying the four performance criteria of 12 CFR__.23(e), may an examiner distinguish among qualified investments based on how much of the investment actually supports the underlying community development purpose? A1. Yes. By applying all the criteria, a qualified investment of a lower dollar amount may be weighed more heavily under the investment
- [§__.23(e) CRA Evaluation of Qualified Investment in a Fund](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-23e-cra-evaluation-of-qualified-investment-in-a-fund/) - §__.23(e) - 2 Q: How do examiners evaluate an institution's qualified investment in a fund, the primary purpose of which is community development, as defined in the CRA regulations? A2. When evaluating qualified investments that benefit an institution’s assessment area(s) or a broader statewide or regional area that includes its assessment area(s), examiners will look at the
- [§__.24(a) Evaluating Retail Banking Services and Community Development Services](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-24a-evaluating-retail-banking-services-and-community-development-services/) - §__.24(a) - 1 Q: How do examiners evaluate retail banking services and community development services under the large institution service test? A1. Retail banking services and community development services are the two components of the service test and are both important in evaluating a large institution’s performance. In evaluating retail banking services, examiners consider the availability and effectiveness
- [§__.24(d) Availability and Effective of Systems for Delivering Retail Banking Services](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-24d-availability-and-effective-of-systems-for-delivering-retail-banking-services/) - §__.24(d) - 1 Q: How do examiners evaluate the availability and effectiveness of an institution's systems for delivery retail banking services? A1. Convenient access to full service branches within a community is an important factor in determining the availability of credit and non-credit services. Therefore, the service test performance standards place primary emphasis on full service branches while still considering alternative
- [§__.24(d) Individual Development Accounts](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-24d-individual-development-accounts/) - §__.24(d) - 2 Q: How do examiners evaluate an institution's activities in connection with Individual Development Accounts (IDA)? A2. Although there is no standard IDA program, IDAs typically are deposit accounts targeted to low- and moderate-income families that are designed to help them accumulate savings for education or job-training, down-payment and closing costs on a new home, or start-up
- [§__.22(b)(5) Evaluation of Innovative or Flexible Lending](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22b5-evaluation-of-innovative-or-flexible-lending/) - §__.22(b)(5) - 1 Q: What do examiners consider in evaluating the innovativeness or flexibility of an institution's lending under the lending test applicable to large institutions? A1. In evaluating the innovativeness or flexibility of an institution’s lending practices (and the complexity and innovativeness of its community development lending), examiners will not be limited to reviewing the overall
- [§__.22(c)(1) Consideration of Affiliate Lending Categories](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22c1-consideration-of-affiliate-lending-categories/) - §__.22(c)(1) - 1 Q: If an institution, regardless of examination type, elects to have loans by its affiliate(s) considered, may it elect to have only certain categories of loans considered? A1. Yes. An institution may elect to have only a particular category of its affiliate’s lending considered. The basic categories of loans are home mortgage loans, small
- [§__.22(c)(2)(i) Affiliate Lending Constraint](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22c2i-affiliate-lending-constraint/) - §__.22(c)(2)(i) - 1 Q: Regardless of examination type, how is this constraint ["no affiliate may claim a loan origination or loan purchase if another institutions claims the same loan origination or purchase"] on affiliate lending applied? A1. This constraint prohibits one affiliate from claiming a loan origination or purchase claimed by another affiliate. However, an institution can
- [§__.22(d) Equity Investments in a Third Party Loan Consortium](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22d-equity-investments-in-a-third-party-loan-consortium/) - §__.22(d) - 1 Q: Will equity and equity-type investments in a third party receive consideration under the lending test? A1. If an institution has made an equity or equity-type investment in a third party, community development loans made by the third party may be considered under the lending test. On the other hand, asset-backed and debt securities that
- [§__.22(d) Evaluation of Loans Made by Consortia or Third Parties](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22d-evaluation-of-loans-made-by-consortia-or-third-parties/) - §__.22(d) - 2 Q: Regardless of examination types, how will examiners evaluate loans made by consortia or third parties? A2. Loans originated or purchased by consortia in which an institution participates or by third parties in which an institution invests will be considered only if they qualify as community development loans and will be considered only under
- [§__.22(d) Community Development Loans Held in Common](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22d-community-development-loans-held-in-common/) - §__.22(d) - 3 Q: In some circumstances, an institution may invest in a third party, such as a community development bank, that is also an insured depository institution and is thus subject to CRA requirements. If the investing institutions requests its supervisory Agency to consider its pro rata share of community development loans made by the
- [§__.23(a) Indirect Investment in Community Development Fund](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-23a-indirect-investment-in-community-development-fund/) - §__.23(a) - 1 Q: May an institution, regardless of examination type, receive consideration under the CRA regulations if it invests indirectly through a fund, the purpose of which is community development, as that is defined in the CRA regulations? A1. Yes, the direct or indirect nature of the qualified investment does not affect whether an institution will
- [§__.23(a) Documentation of Assessment Area Impact from Nationwide Fund Investments](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-23a-documentation-of-assessment-area-impact-from-nationwide-fund-investments/) - §__.23(a) - 2 Q: In order to receive CRA consideration, what information may an institution provide that would demonstrate that an investment in a nationwide fund with a primary purpose of community development will directly or indirectly benefit one or more of the institution's assessment area(s) or a broader statewide or regional area that includes the
- [§__.23(b) CRA Consideration Under Multiple Tests](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-23b-cra-consideration-under-multiple-tests/) - §__.23(b) - 1 Q: Even though the regulations state that an activity that is considered under the lending or service tests cannot also be considered under the investment test, may parts of an activity be considered under one test and other parts be considered under another test? A1. Yes, in some instances the nature of an activity
- [§__.22(a)(2) Small Business Refinances Secured by Residential Real Estate](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22a2-small-business-refinances-secured-by-residential-real-estate/) - §__.22(a)(2) - 7 Q: How are refinancings of small business loans, which are secured by a one-to-four family residence and that have been reported under HMDA as a refinancing, evaluated under CRA? A7. A loan of $1 million or less with a business purpose that is secured by a one- to-four family residence is considered a small
- [§__.22(b)(1) CRA Evaluation of Affiliate Lending Referrals](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22b1-cra-evaluation-of-affiliate-lending-referrals/) - §__.22(b)(1) - 1 Q: How will the Agencies apply the lending activity criterion to discourage an institution from originating loans that are view favorably under CRA in the institution itself and referring other loans, which are not viewed as favorably, for origination by an affiliate? A1. Examiners will review closely institutions with (1) a small number and
- [§__.22(b)(2) & (3) Geographic Distribution and Borrower Characteristics of Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22b2-3-geographic-distribution-and-borrower-characteristics-of-loans/) - §__.22(b)(2) & (3) - 1 Q: How do the geographic distribution of loans and the distribution of lending by borrower characteristics interact in the lending test applicable to either large or small institutions? A1. Examiners generally will consider both the distribution of an institution’s loans among geographies of different income levels, and among borrowers of different income levels and
- [§__.22(b)(2) & (3) Lending in All Portions of Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22b2-3-lending-in-all-portions-of-assessment-area/) - §__.22(b)(2) & (3) - 2 Q: Must an institution lend to all portions of its assessment area? A2. The term “assessment area” describes the geographic area within which the agencies assess how well an institution, regardless of examination type, has met the specific performance tests and standards in the rule. The Agencies do not expect that simply
- [§__.22(b)(2) & (3) Affiliate Lending Consideration in Assessment Areas](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22b2-3-affiliate-lending-consideration-in-assessment-areas/) - §__.22(b)(2) & (3) - 3 Q: Will examiners take into account loans made by affiliates when evaluating the proportion of an institution's lending in its assessment area(s)? A3. Examiners will not take into account loans made by affiliates when determining the proportion of an institution’s lending in its assessment area(s), even if the institution elects to have
- [§__.22(b)(2) & (3) Loans Outside an Assessment Area](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22b2-3-loans-outside-an-assessment-area/) - §__.22(b)(2) & (3) - 4 Q: When will examiners consider loans (other than community development loans) made outside an institution's assessment area(s)? A4. Consideration will be given for loans to low- and moderate-income persons and small business and farm loans outside of an institution’s assessment area(s), provided the institution has adequately addressed the needs of borrowers within
- [§__.22(b)(2) & (3) Evaluation of Mortgage Loans in Middle- or Upper-Income Individuals](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22b2-3-evaluation-of-mortgage-loans-in-middle-or-upper-income-individuals/) - §__.22(b)(2) & (3) - 5 Q: Under the lending test applicable to small, intermediate small, or large institutions, how will examiners evaluate home mortgage loans to middle- or upper-income individuals in a low- or moderate-income geography? A5. Examiners will consider these home mortgage loans under the performance criteria of the lending test, i.e., by number and amount
- [§__.22(b)(4) Actual Loan Amounts for Community Development Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22b4-actual-loan-amounts-for-community-development-loans/) - §__.22(b)(4) - 1 Q: When evaluating an institution's record of community development lending under the lending test applicable to large institutions, may an examiner distinguish among community development loans on the basis of the actual amount of the loan that advances the community development purpose? A1. Yes. When evaluating the institution’s record of community development lending under
- [§__.22(b)(4) CRA Consideration of Community Development Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22b4-cra-consideration-of-community-development-loans/) - §__.22(b)(4) - 2 Q: How do examiners consider community development loans in the evaluation of an institution's record of lending under the lending test applicable to large institutions? A2. An institution’s record of making community development loans may have a positive, neutral, or negative impact on the lending test rating. Community development lending is one of five
- [§__.22(a)(2) Review of Loan Application Data](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22a2-review-of-loan-application-data/) - §__.22(a)(2) - 2 Q: Will examiners review application data as part of the lending test? A2. Application activity is not a performance criterion of the lending test. However, examiners may consider this information in the performance context analysis because this information may give examiners insight on, for example, the demand for loans. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding
- [§__.22(a)(2) CRA Consideration for Purchased Loan Modifications and Extensions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22a2-cra-consideration-for-purchased-loan-modifications-and-extensions/) - §__.22(a)(2) - 3 Q: May a financial institutions receive consideration under CRA for home mortgage loan modification, extension, and consolidation agreements (MECA), in which it obtains home mortgage loans from other institutions without actually purchasing or refinancing the home mortgage loans, as those terms have been interpreted under CRA and HMDA, as implemented by 12 CFR
- [§__.22(a)(2) Other Loan Data Examples](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22a2-other-loan-data-examples/) - §__.22(a)(2) - 4 Q: In addition to MECAs (Modifications, Extensions, and Consolidation Agreements), what are other examples of "other loan data"? A4. Other loan data include, for example, loans funded for sale to the secondary markets that an institution has not reported under HMDA; unfunded loan commitments and letters of credit; commercial and consumer leases; loans secured
- [§__.22(a)(2) CRA Consideration for Fully Guaranteed Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22a2-cra-consideration-for-fully-guaranteed-loans/) - §__.22(a)(2) - 5 Q: Do institutions receive consideration for originating or purchasing loans that are fully guaranteed? A5. Yes. For all examination types, examiners evaluate an institution’s record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) through the origination or purchase of specified types of loans. Examiners do not take into account whether or
- [§__.22(a)(2) CRA Consideration for Loan Participation Purchases](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22a2-cra-consideration-for-loan-participation-purchases/) - §__.22(a)(2) - 6 Q: Do institutions receive consideration for purchasing loan participations? A6. Yes. Examiners will consider the amount of loan participations purchased when evaluating an institution’s record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment area(s) through the origination or purchase of specified types of loans, regardless of examination type. As with other loan
- [§__.21(a) Community Development Activity Examination Weight](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21a-community-development-activity-examination-weight/) - §__.21(a) - 2 Q: Are all community development activities weighted equally by examiners? A2. No. Examiners will consider the responsiveness to credit and community development needs, as well as the innovativeness and complexity, if applicable, of an institution’s community development lending, qualified investments, and community development services. These criteria include consideration of the degree to which they
- [§__.21(a) Evaluation of Responsiveness](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21a-evaluation-of-responsiveness/) - §__.21(a) - 3 Q: "Responsiveness" to credit and community development needs is either a criterion or otherwise a consideration in all of the performance tests. How do examiners evaluate whether a financial institution has been "responsive" to credit and community development needs? A3. There are three important factors that examiners consider when evaluating responsiveness: quantity, quality, and
- [§__.21(a) Innovativeness Definition](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21a-innovativeness-definition/) - §__.21(a) - 4 Q: What is meant by "innovativeness"? A4. “Innovativeness” is one of several qualitative considerations under the lending, investment, and service tests. The community development test for wholesale and limited purpose institutions similarly considers “innovative” loans, investments, and services in the evaluation of performance. Under the CRA regulations, all innovative practices or activities will be
- [§__.21(b) Performance Context Definition](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21b-performance-context-definition/) - §__.21(b) - 1 Q: What is the performance context? A1. The performance context is a broad range of economic, demographic, and institution- and community-specific information that an examiner reviews to understand the context in which an institution’s record of performance should be evaluated. The Agencies will provide examiners with some of this information. The performance context is not
- [§__.21(b)(2) Institution-Provided Performance Context](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21b2-institution-provided-performance-context/) - §__.21(b)(2) - 1 Q: Will examiners consider performance context information provided by institutions? A1. Yes. An institution may provide examiners with any information it deems relevant, including information on the lending, investment, and service opportunities in its assessment area(s). This information may include data on the business opportunities addressed by lenders not subject to the CRA. Institutions
- [§__.21(b)(2) Examiner-Conducted Community Contact Interviews](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21b2-examiner-conducted-community-contact-interviews/) - §__.21(b)(2) - 2 Q: Will examiners conduct community contact interviews as part of the examination process? A2. Yes. Examiners will consider information obtained from interviews with local community, civic, and government leaders. These interviews provide examiners with knowledge regarding the local community, its economic base, and community development initiatives. To ensure that information from local leaders
- [§__.21(b)(4) Factors Outside the Institution's Control](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21b4-factors-outside-the-institutions-control/) - §__.21(b)(4) - 1 Q: Will examiners consider factors outside of an institution's control that prevent it from engaging in certain activities? A1. Yes. Examiners will take into account statutory and supervisory limitations on an institution’s ability to engage in any lending, investment, and service activities. For example, a savings association that has made few or no qualified investments due
- [§__.21(b)(5) Past Poor CRA Performance Adverse Affect on Current Rating](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21b5-past-poor-cra-performance-adverse-affect-on-current-rating/) - §__.21(b)(5) - 1 Q: Can an institution's assigned rating be adversely affected by poor past performance? A1. Yes. The Agencies will consider an institution’s past performance in its overall evaluation. For example, an institution that received a rating of “needs to improve” in the past may receive a rating of “substantial noncompliance” if its performance has not improved.
- [§__.21(b)(5) Consideration of Similarly Situated Lenders](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21b5-consideration-of-similarly-situated-lenders/) - §__.21(b)(5) - 2 Q: How will examiners consider the performance of similarly situated lenders? A2. The performance context section of the regulation permits the performance of similarly situated lenders to be considered, for example, as one of a number of considerations in evaluating the geographic distribution of an institution’s loans to low-, moderate-, middle-, and upper-income geographies.
- [§__.21(f) Minority- and Women-Owned Institutions & Low-Income Credit Unions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21f-minority-and-women-owned-institutions-low-income-credit-unions/) - §__.21(f) - 1 Q: The CRA provides that, in assessing the CRA performance of nonminority- and non-women-owned (majority-owned) financial institutions, examiners may consider as a factor capital investments, loan participations, and other venues undertaken by the institutions in cooperation with minority- or women-owned financial institutions and low-income credit unions (MWLI), provided that these activities help meet
- [§__.22(a) Scope of Lending Test](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22a-scope-of-lending-test/) - §__.22(a) - 1 Q: Are there any types of lending activities that help meet the credit needs of an institution's assessment area(s) and that may warrant favorable consideration as activities that are responsive to the needs of the institution's assessment area(s)? A1. Credit needs vary from community to community. However, there are some lending activities that are
- [§__.22(a)(i) Mortgage Loan Evaluation for non-HMDA Reporters](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22ai-mortgage-loan-evaluation-for-non-hmda-reporters/) - §__.22(a)(1) - 1 Q: If a large retail institution is not required to collect and report home mortgage data under the HMDA, will the Agencies still evaluate the institution's home mortgage lending performance? A1. Yes. The Agencies will sample the institution’s home mortgage loan files in order to assess its performance under the lending test criteria.
- [§__.22(a)(1) CRA Consideration of Consumer Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22a1-cra-consideration-of-consumer-loans/) - §__.22(a)(1) - 2 Q: When will examiners consider consumer loans as part of an institution's CRA evaluation? A2. Consumer loans will be evaluated if the institution so elects and has collected and maintained the data; an institution that elects not to have its consumer loans evaluated will not be viewed less favorably by examiners than one that
- [§__.22(a)(2) CRA Evaluation of Loan Commitments](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-22a2-cra-evaluation-of-loan-commitments/) - §__.22(a)(2) - 1 Q: How are lending commitments (such as letters of credit) evaluated under the regulation? A1. The Agencies consider lending commitments (such as letters of credit) only at the option of the institution, regardless of examination type. Commitments must be legally binding between an institution and a borrower in order to be considered Information about lending
- [§__.12(v) Small Business Loans Secured by Commercial Real Estate](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12v-small-business-loans-secured-by-commercial-real-estate/) - §__.12(v) - 2 Q: Are loans secured by commercial real estate considered small business loans? A2. Yes, depending on their principal amount. Small business loans include loans secured by "nonfarm nonresidential properties," as defined in the Call Report, in amounts of $1 million or less. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment | July 2016
- [§__.12(v) Small Business Loans Secured by Residential Real Estate](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12v-small-business-loans-secured-by-residential-real-estate/) - §__.12(v) - 3 Q: Are loans secured by nonfarm residential real estate to finance small businesses "small business loans"? A3. Typically not. Loans secured by nonfarm residential real estate that are used to finance small businesses are not included as “small business” loans for Call Report purposes unless the security interest in the nonfarm residential real estate is
- [§__.12(t) Credit Cards as Small Business Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12t-credit-cards-as-small-business-loans/) - §__.12(v) - 4 Q: Are credit cards issued to small businesses considered "small business loans"? A4. Credit cards issued to a small business or to individuals to be used, with the institution’s knowledge, as business accounts are small business loans if they meet the definitional requirements in the Call Report instructions. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community
- [§__.12(x) Wholesale Institution Factors](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12x-wholesale-institution-factors/) - §__.12(x) - 1 Q: What factors will the Agencies consider in determine whether an institution is in the business of extending home mortgage, small business, small farm, or consumer loans to retail customers? A1. The Agencies will consider whether the institution holds itself out to the retail public as providing such loans. the institution's revenues from extending
- [§__.21(a) Application of Performance Criteria During CRA Examination](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-21a-application-of-performance-criteria-during-cra-examination/) - §__.21(a) - 1 Q: How will examiners apply the performance criteria? A1. Examiners will apply the performance criteria reasonably and fairly, in accord with the regulations, the examination procedures, and this guidance. In doing so, examiners will disregard efforts by an institution to manipulate business operations or present information in an artificial light that does not
- [§__.12(n) Factors Affecting Wholesale/Limited Purpose Institution Designation](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12n-factors-affecting-wholesale-limited-purpose-institution-designation/) - §__.12(n) - 2 Q: What factors will the Agencies consider to determine whether an institution that, if limited purpose, makes loans outside a narrow product line, or, if wholesale, engages in retail lending, will lose its limited purpose or wholesale designation because of too much other lending? A2. Wholesale institutions may engage in some retail lending without
- [§__.12(n) Niche Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12n-niche-institutions/) - §__.12(n) - 3 Q: Do "niche institutions" qualify as limited purpose (or wholesale) institutions? A3. Generally, no. Institutions that are in the business of lending to the public, but specialize in certain types of retail loans (for example, home mortgage or small business loans) to certain types of borrowers (for example, to high-end income level customers or
- [§__.12(t) CRA Investment Authority](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12t-cra-investment-authority/) - §__.12(t) - 1 Q: Does the CRA regulation provide authority for institutions to make investments? A1. No. The CRA regulation does not provide authority for institutions to make investments that are not otherwise allowed by Federal law. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment | July 2016
- [§__.12(t) Mortgage-Backed Securities or Municipal Bonds](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12t-mortgage-backed-securities-or-municipal-bonds/) - §__.12(t) - 2 Q: Are mortgage-backed securities or municipal bonds "qualified investments"? A2. As a general rule, mortgage-backed securities and municipal bonds are not qualified investments because they do not have as their primary purpose community development, as defined in the CRA regulations. Nonetheless, mortgage-backed securities or municipal bonds designed primarily to finance community development generally are
- [§__.12(t) FHLB Stocks or Federal Reserve Reserves](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12t-fhlb-stocks-or-federal-reserve-reserves/) - §__.12(t) - 3 Q: Are FHLB stocks or unpaid dividend and membership reserves with the Federal Reserve Banks "qualified investments" A3. No. FHLB stocks or unpaid dividends, and membership reserves with the Federal Reserve Banks do not have a sufficient connection to community development to be qualified investments. However, FHLB member institutions may receive CRA consideration as a
- [§__.12(t) Qualified Investment Examples](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12t-qualified-investment-examples/) - §__.12(t) - 4 Q: What are examples of qualified investments? A4. Examples of qualified investments include, but are not limited to, investments, grants, deposits, or shares in or to: Financial intermediaries (including CDFIs, New Markets Tax Credit-eligible Community Development Entities, CDCs, minority- and women-owned financial institutions, community loan funds, and low-income or community development credit unions) that
- [§__.12(t) Charitable Contributions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12t-charitable-contributions/) - §__.12(t) - 5 Q: Will an institution receive consideration for charitable contributions as "qualified investments"? A5. Yes, provided they have as their primary purpose community development as defined in the regulations. A charitable contribution, whether in cash or an in-kind contribution of property, is included in the term “grant.” A qualified investment is not disqualified because an
- [§__.12(t) Lost Income from Below Market Loan Rates](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12t-lost-income-from-below-market-loan-rates/) - §__.12(t) - 6 Q: An institution makes or participates in a community development loan. The institution provided the loan at below-market interest rates or "bought down" the interest rate to the borrower. Is the lost income resulting from the lower interest rate or buy-down a qualified investment? A6. No. The Agencies will, however, consider the responsiveness,
- [§__.12(t) Employee Wages and Contributions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12t-employee-wages-and-contributions/) - §__.12(t) - 7 Q: Will the Agencies consider as a qualified investment the wages or other compensation of an employee or director who provides assistance to a community development organization on behalf of the institution? A7. No. However, the Agencies will consider donated labor of employees or directors of a financial institution as a community development service if
- [§__.12(t) Prior-Period Investment Consideration](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12t-prior-period-investment-consideration/) - §__.12(t) - 8 Q: When evaluating a qualified investment, what consideration will be given for prior-period investments? A8. When evaluating an institution’s qualified investment record, examiners will consider investments that were made prior to the current examination, but that are still outstanding. Qualitative factors will affect the weight given to both current period and outstanding prior-period
- [§__.12(t) Organization Re-Investments to Earn Income](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12t-organization-re-investments-to-earn-income/) - §__.12(t) - 9 Q: How do examiner evaluate loans or investments to organization that, in turn, invest in investments that do not have a community development purpose, and use only the income, or a portion of the income, from those investments to support their community development purpose? A9. Examiners will give quantitative consideration for the dollar amount
- [§__.12(u) Foreign Branch Assets](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12u-foreign-branch-assets/) - §__.12(u) - 1 Q: How are Federal and state branch assets of a foreign bank calculated for purposes of the CRA? A1. A Federal or state branch of a foreign bank is considered a small institution if the Federal or state branch has assets less than the asset threshold delineated in 12 CFR .12(u)(1) for small institutions.
- [§__.12(u)(2) Institution Asset Size Threshold Adjustment](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12u2-institution-asset-size-threshold-adjustment/) - §__.12(u)(2) - 1 Q: How often will the asset size thresholds for small institutions and intermediate small institutions be changed, and how will these adjustments be communicated? A1. The asset size thresholds for “small institutions” and “intermediate small institutions” will be adjusted annually based on changes to the Consumer Price Index. More specifically, the dollar thresholds will be
- [§__.12(v) Loans to Nonprofits Classification](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12v-loans-to-nonprofits-classification/) - §__.12(v) - 1 Q: Are loans to nonprofit organizations considered small business loans or are they considered community development loans? A1. To be considered a small business loan, a loan must meet the definition of “loans to small businesses” in the instructions in the Call Report. In general, a loan to a nonprofit organization, for business or
- [§__.12(j) Reporting Loans with Multiple Purposes](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12j-reporting-loans-with-multiple-purposes/) - §__.12(j) - 3 Q: How should an institution collect or report information for loans the proceeds of which will be used for multiple purposes? A3. If an institution makes a single loan or provides a line of credit to a customer to be used for both consumer and small business purposes, consistent with the instructions for the
- [§__.12(l) Home Mortgage Loan v. Home Purchase Loan](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12l-home-mortgage-loan-v-home-purchase-loan/) - §__.12(l) - 1 Q: Does the term "home mortgage loan" include loans other than "home purchase loan"? A1. Yes. “Home mortgage loan” includes “home improvement loan,” “home purchase loan,” and “refinancing,” as defined in the HMDA regulation, Regulation C, 12 CFR part 1003. This definition also includes multifamily (five-or-more families) dwelling loans, and loans for the purchase of
- [§__.12(l) CRA Consideration for Mortgage Brokerage Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12l-cra-consideration-for-mortgage-brokerage-activities/) - §__.12(l) - 2 Q: Some financial institutions broker home mortgage loans. They typically take the borrower's application and perform other settlement services; however, they do not make the credit decision. The broker institutions may also initially fund these mortgage loans, then immediately assign them to another lender. Because the broker institution does not make the credit
- [§__.12(m) Income Level Data](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12m-income-level-data/) - §__.12(m) - 1 Q: Where do institutions find income level data for geographies and individuals? A1. The median family income (MFI) levels for geographies, i.e., census tracts, are calculated using income data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS) and geographic definitions from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and are updated approximately every five
- [§__.12(n) Narrow Product Line Clarification for Limited Purpose Institution](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12n-narrow-product-line-clarification-for-limited-purpose-institution/) - §__.12(n) - 1 Q: What constitutes a "narrow product line" in the definition of "limited purpose institution"? A1. An institution offers a narrow product line by limiting its lending activities to a product line other than a traditional retail product line required to be evaluated under the lending test (i.e., home mortgage, small business, and small
- [§__.12(h) Community Development Loan Examples](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12h-community-development-loan-examples/) - §__.12(h)-1 Q: What are examples of community development loans? A1: Examples of community development loans include, but are not limited to, loans to borrowers for affordable housing rehabilitation and construction, including construction and permanent financing of multifamily rental property serving low- and moderate-income persons; not-for-profit organizations serving primarily low- and moderate-income housing or other community development needs; borrowers
- [§__.12(h) Community Development Lending for non-HMDA Reporters](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12h-community-development-lending-for-non-hmda-reporters/) - §__.12(h) - 2 Q: If a retail institution that is not required to report under the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) makes affordable home mortgage loans that would be HMDA-reportable home mortgage loans if it were a reporting institution, or if a small institution that is not required to collect and report loan data under the CRA makes small business
- [§__.12(h) Community Development Lending for Intermediate Small Institutions](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12h-community-development-lending-for-intermediate-small-institutions/) - §__.12(h) - 3 Q: May an intermediate small institution that is not subject to HMDA reporting have home mortgage loans considered as community development loans? Similarly, may an intermediate small institution have small business and small farm loans and consumer loans considered as community development loans? A3: Yes. In instances where intermediate small institutions are not required to
- [§__.12(h) Credit Cards and Community Development Lending](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12h-credit-cards-and-community-development-lending/) - §__.12(h) - 4 Q: Do secured credit cards or other credit card programs targeted to low- or moderate-income individuals qualify as community development loans? A4: No. Credit cards issued to low- or moderate-income individuals for household, family, or other personal expenditures, whether as part of a program targeted to such individuals or otherwise, do not qualify as community
- [§__.12(h) Stabilizing Effect of LMI Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12h-stabilizing-effect-of-lmi-loans/) - §__.12(h) - 5 Q: The regulation indicates that community development includes "activities that revitalize or stabilize low- or moderate-income geographies." Do all loans in a low- to moderate-income geography have a stabilizing effect? A5: No. Some loans may provide only indirect or short-term benefits to low- or moderate-income individuals in a low- or moderate-income geography. These loans are not
- [§__.12(h) Statewide vs. Assessment Area Benefit](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12h-statewide-vs-assessment-area-benefit/) - §__.12(h) - 6 Q: Must there be some immediate or direct benefit to the institution's assessment area(s) to satisfy the regulations' requirement that qualified investment and community development loans or services benefit an institution's assessment area(s) or a broader statewide or regional area that includes the institution's assessment area(s)? A6: No. The regulations recognize that community development
- [§__.12(h) Regional Area Definition](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12h-regional-area-definition/) - §__.12(h) - 7 Q: What is meant by the term "regional area"? A7. A “regional area” may be an intrastate area or a multistate area that includes the financial institution’s assessment area(s). Regional areas typically have some geographic, demographic, and/or economic interdependencies and may conform to commonly accepted delineations, such as “the tri-county area” or the “mid-Atlantic
- [§__.12(h) Primary Purpose Clarification](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12h-primary-purpose-clarification/) - §__.12(h) - 8 Q: What is meant by the term "primary purpose" as that term is used to define what constitutes a community development loan, a qualified investment, or a community development service? A8: A loan, investment, or service has as its primary purpose community development when it is designed for the express purpose of revitalizing
- [§__.12(i) Provision of Financial Services Clarification](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12i-provision-of-financial-services-clarification/) - §__.12(i) - 1 Q: In addition to meeting the definition of "community development" in the regulation, community development services must also be related to the provision of financial services. What is meant by the "provision of financial services"? A1. Providing financial services means providing services of the type generally provided by the financial services industry. Providing
- [§__.12(i) Employee or Director Charitable Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12i-employee-or-director-charitable-activities/) - §__.12(i) - 2 Q: Are personal charitable activities provided by an institution's employees or directors outside the ordinary course of their employment considered community development services? A2. No. Services must be provided as a representative of the institution. For example, if a financial institution’s director, on her own time and not as a representative of the institution,
- [§__.12(i) Community Development Services Examples](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12i-community-development-services-examples/) - §__.12(i) - 3 Q: What are examples of community development services? A3. Examples of community development services include, but are not limited to, the following: Providing technical assistance on financial matters to nonprofit, tribal, or government organizations serving low- and moderate-income housing or economic revitalization and development needs; Providing technical assistance on financial matters to small businesses
- [§__.12(j) Home Equity Loans as Consumer Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12j-home-equity-loans-as-consumer-loans/) - §__.12(j) - 1 Q: Are home equity loans considered "consumer loans"? A1. Home equity loans made for purposes other than home purchase, home improvement, or refinancing home purchase or home improvement loans are consumer loans if they are extended to one or more individuals for household, family, or other personal expenditures. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding
- [§__.12(j) Home Equity Lines of Credit as Consumer Loans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12j-home-equity-lines-of-credit-as-consumer-loans/) - §__.12(j) - 2 Q: May a home equity line of credit be considered a "consumer loan" even if part of the line is for home improvement purposes? A2. If the predominant purpose of the line is home improvement, the line may only be reported under HMDA and may not be considered a consumer loan. However, the full
- [§__.12(g)(4)(ii) Designated Disaster Areas](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g4ii-designated-disaster-areas/) - §__.12(g)(4)(ii) - 1 Q: What is a "designated disaster area" and how long does it last? A1: A "designated disaster area" is a major disaster area designated by the Federal government. Such disaster designations include, in particular, Major Disaster Declarations administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) (https://www.fema.gov), but excludes counties designated to receive only FEMA Public
- [§__.12(g)(4)(ii) Designated Disaster Area Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g4ii-designated-disaster-area-activities/) - §__.12(g)(4)(ii) - 2 Q: What activities are considered to "revitalize or stabilize" a designated disaster area, and how are those activities considered? A2: The Agencies generally will consider an activity to revitalize or stabilize a designated disaster area if it helps to attract new, or retain existing, businesses or residents and is related to disaster recovery. An
- [§__.12(g)(4)(iii) Distressed and Underserved Geographies](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g4iii-distressed-and-underserved-geographies/) - §__.12(g)(4)(iii) - 1 Q: What criteria are used to identify distressed or underserved nonmetropolitan, middle-income geographies? A1: Eligible nonmetropolitan middle-income geographies are those designated by the Agencies as being in distress or that could have difficulty meeting essential community needs (underserved). A particular geography could be designated as both distressed and underserved. As defined in 12 CFR__.12(k), a
- [§__.12(g)(4)(iii) Distressed and Underserved Area Updates](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g4iii-distressed-and-underserved-area-updates/) - §__.12(g)(4)(iii) - 2 Q: How often will the Agencies update the list of designated distressed and underserved nonmetropolitan middle-income geographies? A2: The Agencies will review and update the list annually. The list is published on the FFIEC Web site (https://www.ffiec.gov). To the extent that changes to the designated census tracts occur, the Agencies have determined to adopt
- [§__.12(g)(4)(iii) Distressed Revitalization and Stabilization Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g4iii-distressed-revitalization-and-stabilization-activities/) - §__.12(g)(4)(iii) - 3 Q: What activities are considered to "revitalize and stabilize" a distressed nonmetropolitan middle-income geography, and how are those activities evaluated? A3: An activity revitalizes or stabilizes a distressed nonmetropolitan middle-income geography if it helps to attract new, or retain existing, businesses or residents. An activity will be presumed to revitalize or stabilize the area
- [§__.12(g)(4)(iii) Underserved Revitalization and Stabilization Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g4iii-underserved-revitalization-and-stabilization-activities/) - §__.12(g)(4)(iii) - 4 Q: What activities are considered to "revitalize or stabilize" an underserved nonmetropolitan middle-income geography, and how are those activities evaluated? A2: The regulation provides that activities revitalize or stabilize an underserved nonmetropolitan middle-income geography if they help to meet essential community needs, including needs of low- or moderate-income individuals. Activities, such as financing for
- [§__.11(c)(3) Special Purpose Institution Exclusivity](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-11c3-special-purpose-institution-exclusivity/) - §§__.11(c)(3) & 195.11(c)(2) - 1 Q: Is the list of special purpose institutions exclusive? A1: No, there may be other examples of special purpose institutions. These institutions engage in specialized activities that do not involve granting credit to the public in the ordinary course of business. Special purpose institutions typically serve as correspondent banks, trust
- [§__.11(c)(3) Special Purpose Institution Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-11c3-special-purpose-institution-activities/) - §§__.11(c)(3) & 195.11(c)(2) - 2 Q: To be a special purpose institution, must an institution limit its activities in its charter? A2: No. A special purpose institution may, but is not required to, limit the scope of its activities in its charter, articles of association, or other corporate organizational documents. An institution that does not have legal
- [§__.12(a) Affiliate Definition](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12a-affiliate-definition/) - §__.12(a) - 1 Q: Does the definition of "affiliate" include subsidiaries of an institution? A1: Yes, "affiliate" includes any company that controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with another company. An institution's subsidiary is controlled by the institution and is, therefore, an affiliate. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment | July 2016
- [§__.12(f) Branch Definition](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12f-branch-definition/) - §__.12(f) - 1 Q: Do the definitions of "branch," "automated teller machine (ATM)", and "remote service facility (RSF)" include mobile branches, ATMs, and RSFs? A1: Yes. Staffed mobile offices that are authorized as branches are considered "Branches," and mobile ATMs and RSFs are considered "ATMs" and "RSF." §__.12(f) - 2 Q: Are loan production offices (LPO) branches for purposes of
- [§__.12(g) Community Development v. Economic Development](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g-community-development-v-economic-development/) - §__.12(g) - 1 Q: Are community development activities limited to those that promote economic development? A1: No. Although the definition of "community development" includes activities that promote economic development by financing small businesses or farms, the rule does not limit community development loans and services and qualified investments to those activities. Community development also includes community- or tribal-based
- [§__.12(g) Community Development Location](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g-community-development-location/) - §__.12(g) - 2 Q: Must a community development activity occur inside a low- or moderate-income area, designated disaster area, or underserve or distressed nonmetropolitan middle-income area in order for an institution to receive CRA consideration for the activity? A2: No. Community development include activities, regardless of their location, that provide affordable housing for, or community services targeted to
- [§__.12(g) Community Development in High-Cost Areas](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g-community-development-in-high-cost-areas/) - §__.12(g) - 3 Q: Does the regulation provide flexibility in considering performance in high-cost areas? A3: Yes, the flexibility of the performance standards allows examiners to account in their evaluations for conditions in high-cost areas. Examiners consider lending and services to individuals and geographies of all income levels and businesses of all sizes and revenues. In addition the
- [§__.12(g) Community Development Applicability](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g-community-development-applicability/) - §__.12(g) - 4 Q: Can examples of community development activities discussed in a particular Q&A also apply to other types of community development activities not specifically discussed in that Q&A if they have a similar community development purpose? A4: Yes. The Interagency Question and Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment (Questions and Answers) provide examples of particular activities that may
- [§__.12(g)(1) Affordable Housing Determination](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g1-affordable-housing-determination/) - §__.12(g)(1) - 1 Q: When determining whether a project is "affordable housing for low- or moderate-income individuals," thereby meeting the definition of "community development," will it be sufficient to use a formula that relates the cost of ownership, rental, or borrowing to the income levels in the area as the only factor, regardless of whether the
- [§__.12(g)(2) Community Service Examples](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g2-community-service-examples/) - §__.12(g)(2) - 1 Q: Community development includes community services targeted to low- or moderate-income individuals. What are examples of ways that an institution could determine that community services are offered to low- or moderate-income individuals? A1: Examples of ways in which an institution could determine that community services are targeted to low- or moderate-income persons include, but
- [§__.12(g)(3) Economic Development Financing](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g3-economic-development-financing/) - §__.12(g)(3) - 1 Q: '"Community development" includes activities that promote economic development by financing businesses or farms that meet certain size eligibility standards. Are all activities that finance businesses and farms that meet size eligibility standards considered to be community development? A1: No. The concept of "community development" under 12 CFR __.12(g)(3) involves both a "size" test
- [§__.12(g)(4) Community Development Institution Applicability](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g4-community-development-institution-applicability/) - §__.12(g)(4) - 1 Q: Is the definition of "community development" applicable to all institutions? A1: The definition of "community development" is applicable to all institutions, regardless of a particular institution's size of the performance criteria under which it is evaluated. Source: Interagency Questions & Answers Regarding Community Reinvestment | July 2016
- [§__.12(g)(4)(i) Revitalization and Stabilization Activites](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g4i-revitalization-and-stabilization-activites/) - §__.12(g)(4)(i) - 1 Q: What activities are considered to "revitalize or stabilize" a low- or moderate-income geography, and how are those activities considered? A1: Activities that revitalize or stabilize a low- or moderate-income geography are activities that help to attract new, or retain existing, businesses or residents. Examiners will presume that an activity revitalizes or stabilizes a
- [What counts as a qualified investment?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-counts-as-a-qualified-investment/) - Qualified investments under the CRA range from highly complex government-sponsored programs to simple community donations given to nonprofit organizations. Following are some examples of common financial investments that qualify for positive consideration during bank CRA examinations. Investments made to community development organizations and entities such as Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), Community Development Entities (CDEs),
- [§__.12(g)(4) Revitalization and Stabilization Housing Activities](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/§__-12g4-revitalization-and-stabilization-housing-activities/) - §__.12(g)(4) - 2 Q: Will activities that provide housing for middle-income and upper-income persons qualify for favorable consideration as community development activities when they help to revitalize or stabilize a distressed or underserved nonmetropolitan middle-income geography or designated disaster areas? A2: An activity that provides housing for middle- or upper-income individuals qualifies as an activity that
- [How do I prove my program helps low-income people?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/how-do-i-prove-my-program-helps-low-income-people/) - When a nonprofit is seeking CRA support from banks, the most common question will be if the nonprofit and/or its services and programs are focused on low- or moderate-income people or areas. Determining if a program or services meets these important criteria can be time-consuming and complex. Different federal agencies qualify low- and moderate-income in
- [Where can I learn more about the CRA regulation?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/where-can-i-learn-more-about-the-cra-regulation/) - The Community Reinvestment Act is implemented and managed based on your Federal banking regulator. You can find it at the following locations: The Federal Act The OCC Regulation The FDIC Regulation The Federal Reserve Regulation In addition the the Act and implementing Regulations, the federal regulators have published Interagency Q&As that provide official guidance on how to
- [How does a bank get an Outstanding CRA rating?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/how-does-a-bank-get-an-outstanding-cra-rating/) - There is no magic formula to obtaining an Outstanding CRA rating. The FFIEC has published CRA examination procedures that are used by the Federal bank regulators to conduct CRA exams. The procedures are specific to the bank's CRA size. During an examination, the CRA examiner will consider dozens of factors to determine a bank's overall
- [What is peer lending data?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-peer-lending-data/) - Peer lending data is accumulated each year by most banks and other lenders in the United States. The requirements for compiling and reporting peer lending data are outlined in federal regulations. The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act requires mortgage lenders to report all mortgage applications in a standardize format each year. The CRA requires banks to
- [What type of activities revitalize or stabilize?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-type-of-activities-revitalize-or-stabilize/) - There are a variety of activities that are considered to revitalize and stabilize communities as outlined under the requirements of CRA. These are generally broken into three main types of activities. Attracting New or Retaining Existing Business These types of activity is focused on low- or moderate-income geographies. Examples of qualifying activity includes loans for
- [What happens during a CRA examination?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-happens-during-a-cra-examination/) - A bank's CRA examination will be conducted by its federal regulatory agency which is assigned based on how the bank is chartered. This agency could be: The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency or OCC The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or FDIC The Federal Reserve Prior to examination, each regulator published a scheduled of
- [What happens if a bank gets a bad CRA rating?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-happens-if-a-bank-gets-a-bad-cra-rating/) - Of the four ratings a bank can receive for their CRA performance, only the Needs to Improve and Substantial Non-Compliance are viewed as "bad" ratings. However, especially in the case of a Needs to Improve rating, just because the bank received a negative rating doesn't mean that the bank is ignoring the community. In some
- [Where can I find the CRA Rating for a bank?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/where-can-i-find-the-cra-rating-for-a-bank/) - CRA ratings are the only public bank examination rating. They are announced each month by the bank regulators. You can also search for any bank's CRA rating on a special website published by the FFIEC. Search here.
- [What is a bank's assessment area?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-a-banks-assessment-area/) - An assessment area is one or more geographical areas within which a bank is evaluated on its record of helping to meet community credit needs, including areas designated as low- or moderate-income. The assessment area generally consists of one or more Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) or one or more contiguous political subdivisions, such as counties,
- [What is considered low- or moderate-income or LMI?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-considered-low-or-moderate-income-or-lmi/) - Assisting low- or moderate-income geographies and individuals is a primary focus of CRA. The collective income group is often abbreviated "LMI" when describing both the individuals and areas together. LMI Individuals An individual's income is considered to be LMI based on how it measures up to the area median family income. Overall, to be classified
- [What is considered community development?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-considered-community-development/) - Community development is a general term used to characterize the various types of activities that may qualify for positive consideration under the requirements of the Community Reinvestment Act. These activities at the highest level include: Affordable Housing for low- and moderate-income individuals and families or in low- and moderate-income geographies Community Services targeted to low-
- [What is affordable housing?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-affordable-housing/) - Affordable housing is housing where the occupant is paying no more than 30% of his or her income for gross housing costs including utilities. This includes programs for individual homeownership, rental assistance, and multi-family development.
- [What is community development lending?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-community-development-lending/) - Community development lending includes loans to: Construct or rehab of affordable housing including multifamily development or retail units Support nonprofit organizations serving low- and moderate-income people or areas Support community development needs or community facilities in low- and moderate-income geographies Local, state or tribal government community development activities Finance environmental clean-up or redevelopment of industrial
- [Do I have to be a 501(c)(3) to get support under the CRA?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/do-i-have-to-be-a-501c3-to-get-support-under-the-cra/) - The short answer is it depends. In most cases, if you are seeking a financial donation or grant from a bank, they will require that you have a 501(c)(3) or similar nonprofit designation. They may also ask for documentation to ensure that their contribution will be tax deductible. However, CRA is much more than financial
- [How do I know if my organization qualifies for CRA support?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/how-do-i-know-if-my-organization-qualifies-for-cra-support/) - Nonprofit organizations are eligible for CRA support if they provide qualified community development services, loans or investment to either: Low- and moderate-income individuals Low- and moderate-income geographic areas Area specially designated as underserved, distressed or disaster Small businesses or farms If a nonprofit organization has a primary mission and/or programs that falls into one or more
- [Does my nonprofit's mission have to be CRA-qualified to get bank support?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/does-my-nonprofits-mission-have-to-be-cra-qualified-to-get-bank-support/) - A nonprofit does not have to qualify at a mission level to receive CRA support. While certain organizations have a mission that clearly meets the requirements of CRA, many organizations do not. If a nonprofit's mission is not CRA-focused, it may still have programs or services that meet CRA requirements. For example, a nonprofit's mission may
- [What supporting documents will a bank need?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-supporting-documents-will-a-bank-need/) - Each bank has it's own requirements for what types of documents they'd like to see for a bank. The type of number of documents also varies depending on if a nonprofit is applying for a loan, completing a grant application or simply asking for volunteers from the bank. In general, the most common documents a
- [What is CRA?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/what-is-cra/) - The Community Reinvestment Act or CRA is a United States Federal law that obligates banks to meet the credit needs of low- and moderate-income ("LMI") people and areas in each community where the bank has a branch or conducts business. Large banks (with assets over $1.2 billion) must also provide community development investments and services
- [Why is CRA important to banks?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/why-is-cra-important-to-banks/) - The CRA promotes activities in which banks have a vested interest. By providing access to credit and other financial products and services for ALL parts of their communities (including low- and moderate-income areas as well as middle- and upper-income areas), banks can drive economic growth that fuels their institutions. These initiatives help banks create a
- [Why is CRA important to nonprofits?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/why-is-cra-important-to-nonprofits/) - Banks need strong partnerships with organizations that can help them meet the needs of the community and fulfill their CRA goals. Community-based nonprofit organizations provide opportunities for banks to volunteer, lend and donate funds and other resources to the individuals and areas that need it most. Because nonprofits need a variety of support to serve
- [Who holds banks accountable?](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase/who-holds-banks-accountable/) - The Federal agency that provides a bank's charter to operate will also monitor and regulate the bank's overall performance. This Federal agency could be the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the Federal Reserve. Depending on a how a bank is structured, they may have one

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## Article Categories

- [CRA Basics](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase-category/cra-basics/)
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- [Strategic Plans](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase-category/strategic-plans-cra-examination-procedures/)
- [Interagency CRA COVID FAQs](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase-category/interagency-cra-covid-faqs/)
- [socrates spotlight](https://www.learncra.com/knowledgebase-category/socrates-spotlight/)