What is a credit bureau and what is its purpose?

Credit bureaus play a crucial role in your financial life, yet many people don’t fully understand how these consumer reporting agencies actually work or why they matter. Whether you’re applying for a mortgage, renting an apartment, or even landing a new job, credit reporting companies are collecting and reporting information about your financial history to lenders, creditors, and employers. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about credit bureaus — from how they collect your information to who uses it and how you can protect your credit score from dropping.

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Irma Šlekytė

December 30, 2025

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