Credit Reporting Agencies
Credit reporting agencies are companies that collect and maintain information on the credit histories and creditworthiness of consumers. Credit reporting agencies, also known as credit bureaus or credit reference agencies, use this information to create credit reports and credit scores, which are used by lenders, landlords, and other organizations to assess the credit risk of potential customers. Continue Reading Below
Encyclopedia Articles
Discover the definition of financial terms related to credit reporting agencies.

What Is Credit Utilization? How It Affects Your Credit Score and How to Lower It
Andrew Latham

What Is a Credit Builder Loan?
Allison Martin

Exploring FACTA: What It Is, Key Provisions and Why It Matters
SuperMoney Team

Trade Lines: How They Work, Types, and Examples
Silas Bamigbola

Debt Purchasers: Who are they and what do they do?
SuperMoney Team

Nonaccrual Loans: Definition, Examples, and Implications
SuperMoney Team

Beacon Score: Definition, Evolution, and Real-World Impact
Silas Bamigbola

Credit Reports: What They Are, How to Use Them, and Their Impact on Your Finances
Alessandra Nicole

Credit Monitoring: Definition, Benefits, and Examples
SuperMoney Team

Account Inquiries: Definition, Impact, and Examples
SuperMoney Team
Learn About Credit Reporting Agencies

How Long Do Collections Stay on Your Credit Report?
Andrew Latham

How Long Does a Charge-Off Stay on Your Credit Report?
Andrew Latham

What Happens If You Don't Pay Medical Bills?
Andrew Latham

How to Remove CBSI Collections from Your Report, 2026
Silas Bamigbola

Get American Recovery Service Inc. Off Your Credit Report
Silas Bamigbola

Clearing American Profit Recovery from Your Credit Record
Silas Bamigbola

Does PayPal Credit Affect Your Credit Score?
Taylor Marks

What Does “Too Few Accounts Currently Paid as Agreed” Mean?
Erin Gobler

What Happens if You Falsely Dispute a Credit Card Charge?
Emily Africa

JPMCB Card Services: Why Does it Appear on My Credit Report?
Lacey Stark

How Fast Will a Car Loan Raise My Credit Score?
Lacey Stark

Lying on a Credit Card Application: Detection Methods & Consequences
Emily Africa

How to Build Credit at 18
Benjamin Locke

FICO Announces New UltraFICO Score—Incorporates Bank Account Data
Ben Luthi

How To Settle Credit Card Debt When a Lawsuit Has Been Filed
David Hodges

Does Paying Rent Build Your Credit?
Randy Erickson