26 million Americans could gain credit access under Britt-backed legislation

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April 14, 2025

U.S. Senator Katie Britt is working with a group of Republican colleagues to expand credit access to millions of fiscally responsible Americans who are currently classified as ‘credit invisible,’ in other words, those who have little or no credit history.

According to Britt (R-Montgomery), the Credit Access and Inclusion Act would allow citizens with a record of paying their bills on time to develop a positive credit history by allowing both property owners and providers to report payment data to credit reporting agencies.

The bill, newly reintroduced in the 119th Congress, gives credit bureaus the ability to collect payment data for services not traditionally factored into credit reporting, such as rent, internet, phone, electricity, and utility payments.

“Hardworking Americans who have demonstrated financial responsibility deserve a pathway to establish and build their credit,” said Britt.

“This bill takes into consideration the varying circumstances and experiences of individuals who hope to achieve their American Dream. Access to credit is a crucial component to establishing financial stability and economic independence for individuals and families – this legislation simply incorporates a more complete history of on-time payments, like rent and utilities, to reflect an accurate credit score and open the door to financial opportunities.”

Approximately 26 million Americans are “credit invisible,” meaning they lack credit records or a history of traditional payments, such as student loans, car loans, or mortgage payments.

Having no credit or thin credit makes economic mobility difficult and hampers an individual’s ability to purchase a home, take out student loans, buy a car, or even get a job.

U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-FL) is joining with Britt to again sponsor the bill, while U.S. Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) is leading companion legislation in the House.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten