Equal Credit Opportunity Act Ecoa

Definition of "Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA)"

U.S. law making it illegal to discriminate when giving credit based on factors such as race, religion, color, age, national origin. A lender must respond to credit applications within 30 days. If the application is denied, reasons must be given. The purpose of this law was to assure that lenders would not treat one group of applicants more favorably then other group except for reasonable and justifiable business reasons. Strict rules have in all aspects of a credit transaction including that dealing with the purchase or real estate.

Related Real Estate Glossary terms

Related Real Estate FAQ