Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA)
Any business that compiles and sells reports about consumers to creditors, employers, landlords, or others. Includes the three major credit bureaus plus dozens of specialty agencies covering banking, insurance, employment, tenant screening, and more. All CRAs are regulated by the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Related guides
- Full credit & FICO® glossary
Browse all defined terms by category.
- Credit Bureau
A company that collects and maintains credit information about consumers and provides credit reports to lenders, creditors, and consumers. The three major US credit bureaus are Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. Also called Consumer Reporting Agencies (CRAs) under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
- Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
The US federal law that regulates how credit bureaus (Consumer Reporting Agencies) collect, use, and share your credit information. The FCRA gives you the right to see your credit report, dispute inaccuracies, and limits how long negative information can remain on your report.
Frequently Asked Questions About Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA)
What does Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA) mean?
Any business that compiles and sells reports about consumers to creditors, employers, landlords, or others. Includes the three major credit bureaus plus dozens of specialty agencies covering banking, insurance, employment, tenant screening, and more. All CRAs are regulated by the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Is Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA) important for my FICO® score?
Understanding Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA) helps you manage your credit profile more effectively, which in turn supports a stronger FICO® score.