What is the purpose of the Truth in Lending Act (TILA)?

• A. Promote informed use of credit through clear disclosure of loan terms and costs
• B. Protect consumers in the settlement process
• C. Regulate real estate appraisals
• D. Set mortgage interest rates

Answer: (A)

The main idea behind the Truth in Lending Act is to make consumer credit costs clear so people can compare loans and understand exactly what they’re agreeing to. It requires lenders to disclose key terms in a standardized way—things like the annual percentage rate, total finance charges, payment schedule, and the amount financed—so the true cost of borrowing isn’t hidden. This transparency helps you evaluate offers and avoid surprise fees. TILA also lays out protections tied to these disclosures, such as the right of rescission for certain loans secured by a dwelling.

Why the other options don’t fit: protecting consumers in the settlement process is the domain of RESPA, not TILA; regulating real estate appraisals is handled by FIRREA/related appraisal oversight, not TILA; and setting mortgage interest rates isn’t something TILA does—the rates are determined by market conditions and lenders, with TILA focusing on disclosure, not rate setting.