FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2026
CDIA Applauds FHA’s Decision to Maintain Tri-Merge Credit Report Requirement
Statement from Dan Smith, President and CEO, Consumer Data Industry Association
Washington, D.C. — Dan Smith, President and CEO of the Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA), issued the following statement in response to today’s FHA announcement confirming the continuation of the tri-merge credit report requirement:
“FHA made the right call. The tri-merge credit report exists for a reason — it promotes data accuracy, market competition, and investor confidence, and it protects borrowers by ensuring that lenders have the most complete picture of creditworthiness before making one of the most consequential financial decisions of a consumer’s life.
“Today’s guidance confirms what CDIA has long maintained: more data, not less, is the foundation of a sound mortgage market. Requiring tri-merge reports across all acceptable scoring models ensures consistency, reduces risk, and preserves the integrity of the credit evaluation process for lenders, investors, and borrowers alike.
“We commend FHA and HUD for their commitment to prudent risk management and consumer protection, and we look forward to continued engagement as implementation guidance is developed later this year.”
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About CDIA: The Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA) is the voice of the consumer reporting industry, representing consumer reporting agencies, including the nationwide credit bureaus, regional and specialized credit bureaus, background check and residential screening companies, and others. Founded in 1906, CDIA promotes the responsible use of consumer data to help consumers achieve their financial goals and to help businesses, governments, and volunteer organizations avoid fraud.
Contact:
Ben Corb
bcorb@cdiaonline.org
202.841.2701