CHLA opposes single-bureau credit pull

"According to industry sources cited by the group, roughly 23% of consumer credit data is not reported to all three bureaus. We expect that alternative data in new scores may change data reporting, CHLA wrote. Disparities may increase, not decrease for example, cellular phone data may only be available to one bureau. Supporters of a single-bureau approach argue that it could simplify the mortgage process and reduce costs for borrowers."

"The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) has publicly supported a single-merge requirement. In a December LinkedIn post, MBA president and CEO Bob Broeksmit said the organization was renewing calls for the administration to end the mandate that all mortgage lenders obtain three credit reports, arguing that it contributes to repeated price increases. Broeksmit also said in June that early discussions with lenders and servicers strongly suggested a single credit report could be feasible without introducing undue risk to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac."

"In response, the Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA), which represents credit reporting agencies, defended the tri-merge system, calling it an indispensable part of the work to help more prospective homebuyers safely enter the mortgage market. More data, not less, is required to protect lenders and taxpayers and open up more opportunities for borrowers, CDIA said in the statement. The solution to bringing down costs for consumers isn't less data, it's greater choice in the mortgage-scoring market."

Roughly 23% of consumer credit data is not reported to all three bureaus, and the introduction of alternative data could change reporting patterns. Some alternative data sources, such as cellular phone records, may be available to only one bureau, potentially increasing disparities. Supporters of a single-bureau approach argue it could simplify mortgage processing and lower borrower costs, and say consumer-permissioned bank account data could bridge gaps without a tri-merge report. The Mortgage Bankers Association has publicly backed a single-merge requirement. Credit report price increases for 2026 have intensified the debate. The CDIA defends tri-merge as necessary to protect lenders and taxpayers.

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