usc 15 § 1691a
Definitions; rules of construction (COMMERCE AND TRADE (15 U.S.C.))
Operative Text
The definitions and rules of construction set forth in this section are applicable for the purposes of this subchapter. The term “applicant” means any person who applies to a creditor directly for an extension, renewal, or continuation of credit, or applies to a creditor indirectly by use of an existing credit plan for an amount exceeding a previously established credit limit. The term “Bureau” means the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. The term “credit” means the right granted by a creditor to a debtor to defer payment of debt or to incur debts and defer its payment or to purchase property or services and defer payment therefor. The term “creditor” means any person who regularly extends, renews, or continues credit; any person who regularly arranges for the extension, renewal, or continuation of credit; or any assignee of an original creditor who participates in the decision to extend, renew, or continue credit. The term “person” means a natural person, a corporation, government or governmental subdivision or agency, trust, estate, partnership, cooperative, or association. Any reference to any requirement imposed under this subchapter or any provision thereof includes reference to the regulations of the Bureau under this subchapter or the provision thereof in question.
Section 15 U.S.C. § 1691a establishes the foundational vocabulary used throughout the Equal Credit Opportunity Act subchapter. It defines key terms such as 'applicant,' 'creditor,' 'credit,' and 'person' broadly, ensuring the law covers a wide range of individuals, institutions, and credit transactions. The section also clarifies that any reference to the law's requirements automatically includes the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection's implementing regulations, tying statutory obligations to regulatory guidance.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers who offer seller financing, lease-to-own arrangements, or other deferred-payment structures may qualify as 'creditors' under 15 U.S.C. § 1691a, meaning the broader Equal Credit Opportunity Act subchapter could apply to their practices. Compliant operators generally ensure that anyone who applies for such credit arrangements is treated as an 'applicant' entitled to the protections the subchapter provides. Because the definitions here extend to Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection regulations, operators typically review both the statute and those implementing rules when assessing their obligations.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
For tenants, 15 U.S.C. § 1691a is significant because its broad definition of 'applicant' can encompass individuals seeking credit-based housing arrangements, and its definition of 'creditor' can reach a variety of parties involved in extending or arranging that credit. Understanding these definitions helps tenants recognize when the Equal Credit Opportunity Act's protections may apply to their situation. Tenants who believe a creditor has not honored the subchapter's requirements may explore options such as filing a complaint with the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection or consulting a tenant-rights or consumer-rights organization for general guidance.
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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