What aspect of credit transactions does the Equal Credit Opportunity Act address?

The Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) specifically targets discrimination in lending practices. It aims to ensure that all individuals have equal access to credit without being affected by factors such as race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, or age. The primary goal of the ECOA is to promote fair lending practices and to eliminate biases that can adversely affect disadvantaged groups.

This act requires creditors to inform applicants of the reasons for denial of credit, ensures transparency in lending decisions, and mandates that all applicants be evaluated on their creditworthiness rather than any discriminatory criteria. By focusing on discrimination, the ECOA plays a significant role in creating a more equitable financial landscape for consumers.