Housing Counselor Certification (HUD) Practice Exam

A credit report may contain which type of information?

1. The number of accounts in collection status

2. The total credit available

3. The date of last payment

4. The number of inquiries made

The correct answer is: The number of accounts in collection status

A credit report provides a comprehensive view of an individual's credit history and financial behavior, and certain types of information are specifically included in these reports. The presence of information regarding the number of accounts in collection status is critical because it indicates how well a consumer has managed their debts. Accounts in collection status reflect a failure to fulfill payment obligations, suggesting potential financial distress. This information can significantly impact a lender's decision when assessing creditworthiness, as it reveals red flags about a person's credit management. Additionally, credit reports typically capture various negative marks and payment histories, which helps creditors gauge risk levels associated with approving credit applications. The data on accounts in collection status is vital for lenders in determining borrowing risk, thereby affecting interest rates and approval chances. While other information like the total credit available, date of last payment, and the number of inquiries made do also originate from credit reports, it is the details around accounts in collection status that mark a definitive sign of credit management issues that lenders closely scrutinize.