Trans Union Simplifys Consumer Credit Report

easier for people to understand. The new format eliminates all codes and abbreviations, and highlights information that lenders might consider unfavorable. The old credit report coded negative information so only lenders could understand. Now derogatory information, such as late payments and the amount an account is past due, is bracketed. "The new consumer credit report will help improve communication between consumers, lenders, and the credit reporting industry," said David R. Wollf, vice president of Trans Union's consumer relations. "It is easy to read with information grouped into clear, concise categories." The impetus for change came from a consumer survey the Chicago-based credit information service company gave to people who requested credit reports. As with the previous reports, the new versions include a consumer bill of rights and an investigation request form, but each have been rewritten in "plain English," said a spokeswoman. "The industry jargon has been taken out," she said. Other changes include clearer summary statements located at the beginning of each section of the report. In the past, the report was geared to lenders' understanding, said the spokeswoman.

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