usc 15 § 1681f
Disclosures to governmental agencies (COMMERCE AND TRADE (15 U.S.C.))
Operative Text
Notwithstanding the provisions of , a consumer reporting agency may furnish identifying information respecting any consumer, limited to his name, address, former addresses, places of employment, or former places of employment, to a governmental agency.
Under 15 U.S.C. § 1681f, consumer reporting agencies are permitted to share a limited category of identifying information about consumers with governmental agencies, even when other provisions of the Fair Credit Reporting Act would otherwise restrict such disclosures. The information that may be shared is narrowly defined, covering only a consumer's name, current and former addresses, and current and former places of employment. No other data from a consumer's file — such as credit history, account details, or scores — falls within this permissible disclosure category.
Plain English — not legal advice.
While 15 U.S.C. § 1681f primarily governs consumer reporting agencies rather than landlords directly, property owners and managers who work with such agencies should understand that certain basic identifying details about individuals may be accessible to government entities through this channel. Compliant operators generally ensure their own data-sharing agreements and tenant screening practices align with the FCRA's overall framework, recognizing that this provision creates a narrow carve-out rather than a broad authorization. Staying informed about what consumer reporting agencies can and cannot share helps operators maintain practices consistent with applicable federal law.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Under 15 U.S.C. § 1681f, a consumer reporting agency is allowed to release certain basic identifying details — your name, addresses, and employment locations — to a governmental agency without the usual FCRA consent requirements that apply to other disclosures. Consumers who have questions about what information a reporting agency has shared, or who believe a disclosure exceeded the narrow scope this provision allows, can request their consumer file disclosures directly from the reporting agency. Tenant-rights organizations and consumer protection agencies, such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, can provide general information about rights and complaint processes under the FCRA.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 13, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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