Standard Background Screening Terminology
We have comprised a list of commonly used terms and definitions that may appear on any consumer report that we prepare for you. Most of the definitions have been verified through standard dictionaries and authoritative reference books, and we recommend that you always consider the context in which the word is used.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) Terminology and Definitions
Term |
Section |
Definition |
Person |
603 |
Any individual, partnership, corporation, trust, estate, cooperative, association, government or governmental subdivision or agency, or other entity. |
Consumer |
603 |
An individual. |
Consumer Report |
603 |
Any written, oral, or other communication of any information by a consumer reporting agency bearing on a consumer's credit worthiness, credit standing, credit capacity, character, general reputation, personal characteristics, or mode of living which is used or expected to be used or collected in whole or in part for the purpose of serving as a factor in establishing the consumer's eligibility for
(A) credit or insurance to be used primarily for personal, family, or household purposes;
(B) employment purposes; or
(C) any other purpose authorized under section 604 [§ 1681b].
(2) Exclusions. Except as provided in paragraph (3), the term "consumer report" does not include
(A) subject to section 624, any
(i) report containing information solely as to transactions or experiences between the consumer and the person making the report;
(ii) communication of that information among persons related by common ownership or affiliated by corporate control; or
(iii) communication of other information among persons related by common ownership or affil |