Which of the following is a protected class under ECOA?

• A. Race
• B. Height
• C. Eye Color
• D. Favorite Food

Answer: (A)

Race is protected under ECOA. The Equal Credit Opportunity Act bars discrimination in any aspect of a credit transaction based on protected characteristics, which include race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, and age. Because race is explicitly listed, a lender cannot treat someone differently in applying for credit or in the terms offered solely because of their race. Height, eye color, and favorite food are not protected under ECOA, so decisions based on those attributes fall outside its prohibitions.