FHFA: Validation of Classic FICO for Use by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Announced
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) today announced the validation and approval of the Classic FICO credit score model for use by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises). The validation and approval of Classic FICO by the Enterprises allows them to continue supporting the mortgage market while assessing more modern credit score models that…
CFPB: Final Rule Issued to Implement the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (Bureau) today issued a final rule to restate and clarify prohibitions on harassment and abuse, false or misleading representations, and unfair practices by debt collectors when collecting consumer debt. The rule focuses on debt collection communications and gives consumers more control over how often and through what means debt collectors…
CFPB: New Study Shows Credit Builder Loan Could Help Consumers Build Credit
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (Bureau) today released a report indicating that a credit builder loan could increase the likelihood of establishing a credit record for consumers without one, and could help improve the credit scores of those with no current outstanding debt. The Bureau issued “Targeting Credit Builder Loans: Insights from a Credit Builder…
OCC: Project REACh Announced to Promote Greater Access to Capital and Credit for Underserved Populations
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency today announced the launch of Project REACh to promote financial inclusion through greater access to credit and capital. REACh stands for Roundtable for Economic Access and Change and brings together leaders from the banking industry, national civil rights organizations, business, and technology to identify and reduce barriers…
CFPB: Credit Reporting Guidance During COVID-19 Pandemic Issued
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (Bureau) today released a policy statement outlining the responsibility of credit reporting companies and furnishers during the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to the pandemic, many lenders are being flexible when it comes to consumers’ making payments. The Bureau’s statement underscores that consumers benefit if lenders report accurate information about these…
FHFA: Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Publish Joint Enterprise Credit Score Solicitation
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced today that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises) have published a Joint Credit Score Solicitation. “The publication of the solicitation is the first step in the process of evaluating new credit score models,” said FHFA Director Mark Calabria. “FHFA will ensure that the Enterprises validate and approve credit score…
HUD: New Report Explores Problem of “Credit Invisibility” Among HUD-Assisted Households
First-of-its-kind study examines reporting rent payments to credit reporting agencies Landlords and property management groups regularly use credit checks to make determinations about renting to potential tenants and many employers incorporate credit checks in hiring decisions. A low credit score or credit invisibility can thusly limit housing choice and employment opportunity for low-income families. A…
ABA: Credit Card Delinquencies Fall as Other Consumer Delinquencies Rise Slightly
Consumer credit delinquencies were mixed in the second quarter, with delinquencies falling for bank cards (credit cards provided by banks) and rising for the composite index of closed-end loans, according to results from the American Bankers Association’s Consumer Credit Delinquency Bulletin. Overall, delinquencies rose in eight of the 11 categories tracked by ABA while three…
ABA: Foundation Invites Bank Volunteers for 2019 ‘Get Smart About Credit’ Day
Bankers visit classrooms across country on Oct. 18 to teach credit education The American Bankers Association Foundation is calling for banker volunteers for its 17th annual Get Smart About Credit campaign, an initiative designed to teach teens how to use credit effectively. Bankers will celebrate Get Smart About Credit Day on Oct. 17 and throughout…
FHFA: Final Rule on Credit Scoring Models Published
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) today sent to the Federal Register for publication a final rule on the validation and approval of third-party credit score model(s) that can be used by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises). The rule implements the requirements in Section 310 of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection…