Rent Payment Reporting Increases Amid FHFA Policy Changes: TransUnion Report

TransUnion reports that the number of consumers whose rent payments are reported to credit reporting agencies rose to 13% in 2025, up from 11% in 2024. The Federal Housing Finance Agency's new policy may further increase rent payment reporting, making it easier for consumers to qualify for mortgages. However, the number of property managers participating in rent payment reporting decreased to 44% in 2025, down from 48% the year prior, suggesting consumers may be self-reporting their payments.

The number of consumers whose rent payments are reported to credit reporting agencies rose to 13% in 2025, up from 11% in 2024, according to TransUnion's latest Rent Payment Reporting analysis [1]. This trend may gain momentum following a directive from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) director Bill Pulte, which ordered Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to accept VantageScore 4.0 credit scores for mortgage underwriting. The new policy also allows for the consideration of rent payment history in mortgage applications, potentially opening the housing market to more first-time homebuyers [2].

Maitri Johnson, SVP and head of TransUnion’s tenant and employment screening business, commented on the regulatory developments, stating, “The vast majority of renters reliably make on-time payments and they deserve to leverage that proven responsibility toward home ownership and other financial opportunities” [1]. However, the analysis also found that property manager participation in rent reporting fell to 44% in 2025, down from 48% in 2024, suggesting that consumers may be self-reporting their rent payments through third-party data furnishers [1].

Rent payment reporting is well-documented as a means to improving credit scores and financial inclusion. According to the report, 57% of renters are more likely to choose managers who report payments, and 80% are more likely to pay on time when their payments are reported to credit reporting agencies [1]. Furthermore, regulatory actions have bolstered rent payment reporting. California now mandates reporting, while Colorado requires managers to offer it annually [1].

While participation rose across most generations, Gen Z saw a decrease from 26% in 2024 to 18% in 2025. However, this cohort remains the most active users given their shorter credit histories. The decreased participation from Gen Z was surprising considering their shorter credit histories, but the new policy may position many Gen Z consumers to achieve homeownership at an earlier age [1].

The new policy from the FHFA and the increasing trend of consumers self-reporting their rent payments highlight a shift towards greater financial inclusion. As more consumers and property managers become aware of the benefits of rent payment reporting, the number of consumers opting in is likely to increase, potentially leading to a more inclusive housing market.

References:
[1] HousingWire. "Consumers Are Increasingly Self-Reporting Rent Payments, TransUnion Says." [URL](https://www.housingwire.com/articles/consumers-are-increasingly-self-reporting-rent-payments-transunion-says/)
[2] StockTitan. "TransUnion Report Finds More Consumers Likely Self-Reporting Rent." [URL](https://www.stocktitan.net/news/TRU/trans-union-report-finds-more-consumers-likely-self-reporting-rent-zw7pq4t4y7qy.html)