| a firm that investigates the creditworthiness of and assigns a credit rating to a client's customers or potential customers. |
| credit bureau n. An organization to which business firms apply for credit information on prospective customers. |
Credit Bureau
An agency that researches and collects individual credit information and sells it for a fee to creditors so they can make a decision on granting loans. Typical clients include banks, mortgage lenders, credit card companies and other financing companies. Also commonly referred to as consumer reporting agency or credit reporting agency.
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Related Links
The Importance of Your Credit Rating
Identity Theft: How To Avoid It
Identity Theft: What To Do If It Happens
See also: Credit, Credit Report, Creditor, Line of Credit, Mortgage