Description: The Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) is a nonprofit research and policy organization that works to eliminate abusive financial practices and expand access to fair, affordable credit. CRL produces research and analysis, advises state and federal policymakers, and advocates for stronger consumer protections in mortgage lending, small‑dollar and payday lending, credit reporting and debt collection, and other consumer finance markets. Type: Non-profit (501(c)(3) research and policy organization, affiliated with community development financial institutions) Policies: Consumer financial protection; mortgage reform and foreclosure prevention; restrictions on payday and other high‑cost small‑dollar lending; fair lending and anti‑discrimination enforcement; regulation of debt collection and credit reporting; support for robust federal and state consumer protection agencies and implementation of related rules. Funding: Primarily funded by philanthropic foundation grants and charitable contributions, supplemented by support and partnerships with affiliated community development organizations. Affiliates: Associated with the Self‑Help network (including Self‑Help Credit Union and related community development entities) and allied state and national consumer advocacy and community development organizations and leaders.
