September 10, 2014 — Testimony

Credit reports play a critical role in the economic health and well-being of consumers and their families. A good credit history (and its corollary, a good credit score) enables consumers to obtain credit, and to have that credit be fairly priced. Credit reports are also used by other important decisionmakers, such as insurers, landlords, utility providers, and unfortunately, as we discuss below, even employers. Thus, it is no exaggeration to say that a credit history can make or break a consumer’s finances.