Fair Lending
The OCC is committed to ensuring that national banks and federal savings associations comply with fair lending laws and provide equal access to credit for all consumers.
Fair Lending Laws
The primary fair lending laws include:
Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) - Prohibits discrimination in any aspect of a credit transaction based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, receipt of public assistance, or exercise of rights under the Consumer Credit Protection Act.
Fair Housing Act - Prohibits discrimination in residential real estate-related transactions based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status, or handicap.
OCC Fair Lending Program
The OCC's fair lending supervision program:
- Examines banks for compliance with fair lending laws
- Identifies and addresses discriminatory lending practices
- Takes enforcement action when violations are found
- Provides guidance to help banks maintain compliance
Resources
- Comptroller's Handbook: Fair Lending
- Fair Lending Examination Procedures
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau - Fair Lending