Consumer Credit Protection Act of 1968
Definition
The Consumer Credit Protection Act (CCPA) of 1968 is a landmark federal legislation that establishes requirements for lenders to disclose key terms and conditions to borrowers in a transparent manner. This includes the disclosure of the Annual Percentage Rate (APR), potential total costs, and any special loan terms. By mandating these disclosures, the Act aims to protect consumers from misleading and unfair credit practices. The act is enforced by the Federal Reserve Board (FRB) and is also commonly referred to as the Truth in Lending Act (TILA). The related regulation is known as Regulation Z.
Examples
- Credit Card Disclosures: When a consumer applies for a credit card, the issuer must provide clear information about the APR, any annual fees, and how interest is calculated on unpaid balances.
- Mortgage Loan Terms: A bank offering a mortgage must inform prospective borrowers about the total cost of the loan, including interest rates, closing costs, and other fees.
- Auto Loans: Car dealerships offering financing must disclose the APR and the total cost of the loan over its duration, including all interest and fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What information must lenders disclose under the CCPA?
Lenders must disclose the Annual Percentage Rate (APR), potential total costs, special loan terms, and other pertinent credit-related terms.
Q2: Who enforces the Consumer Credit Protection Act?
The Federal Reserve Board (FRB) enforces the provisions of the CCPA.
Q3: Is the CCPA the same as the Truth in Lending Act?
Yes, the CCPA is commonly referred to as the Truth in Lending Act (TILA).
Q4: What is the purpose of the CCPA?
The primary purpose of the CCPA is to ensure transparent lending practices and protect consumers from unfair and misleading credit terms.
Q5: How does Regulation Z relate to the CCPA?
Regulation Z is the detailed set of rules that implement the requirements of the CCPA, specifying the necessary disclosures and procedures lenders must follow.
Related Terms
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): The annual rate charged for borrowing or earned through an investment, expressed as a percentage.
- Federal Reserve Board (FRB): The governing body of the Federal Reserve System, which oversees the implementation of regulations under the CCPA.
- Truth in Lending Act (TILA): Another common name for the Consumer Credit Protection Act, outlining lender disclosure requirements to consumers.
- Regulation Z: The regulation issued by the FRB to implement the CCPA’s provisions, detailing the specific disclosure requirements and procedures.
Online Resources
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC) - Consumer Credit Protection Act
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) - Truth in Lending Act
- Federal Reserve - Regulation Z
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Truth in Lending” by Ralph J. Rohner and Fred H. Miller
- “Consumer Credit Law and Practice - A Guide” by Dennis Rosenthal
- “Consumer Credit and the Law (Vol. 1)” by Vern Countryman and Richard L. Wildridge
Fundamentals of Consumer Credit Protection Act of 1968: Finance Basics Quiz
Thank you for learning about the Consumer Credit Protection Act of 1968. Strive to understand these fundamental protections to navigate financial matters wisely!