Less Affluent Borrowers Aren't Always the Best Bets

To the Editor:

I would like to clarify the position of Fair, Isaac & Co., as mentioned in a commentary ("Ax-Swinging Politicians Should Spare CRA," March 2, page 5) by John Taylor of the National Community Reinvestment Coalition.

He cited Fair Isaac to support the proposition that "income (is) negatively correlated with loan performance."

Had that statement been limited to the performance of home mortgage loans, it would be correct based on the data we have reviewed. However, in other types of consumer lending, higher incomes are generally associated with better performance. Peter L. McCorkell Vice president, corporate affairs Fair, Isaac & Co. San Rafael, Calif.

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