As of December 2010, Experian is the first and only major bureau now incorporating positive rental data from it's RentBureau Division into credit files.  This opens a new avenue for the estimated 50 million underbanked consumers - which can include everyone from college students to recent graduates to immigrants - to build credit with continuous on-time rental payments.

An estimated one-third of the U.S. population rents.  Experian felt it was imperitive to reflect the true credtiworthiness of those individuals who responsibly pay their rent.  Brannan Johnson, Experian Vice President and Managing Director, stated in a recent press release that over one in three consumers will see an increase in thier score with the addition of this rental information.

According to the National Muli Housing Council, there are nearly 96 million individuals currently renting who are not getting the "credit" they deserve on their credit reports.  In the past, only negative information regarding rentals was included. 

Lenders can now update their underwriting procedures to automatically capture a consumer's rental payment obligations from teh credit report.  Additionally, lenders will now hve a comprehensive understanding of a consumer's total monthly obligations to assist with offering credit to emerging consumers. 

Jennifer Hamby is the Executive Vice President of My Credit My Future.  Hamby has worked in the financial sector since 1996 & is dedicated to educating consumers on financial responsibility and the impact it has on one's credit score.  My Credit My Future offers a variety of resources that help consumers make smart decisions with regard to their personal finances.  Find out more at www.mcmf.net.