Equifax and Bankrate Launch Credit Education Destination

Equifax Inc. and Bankrate are teaming to offer a new online resource to consumers shopping for a mortgage, home equity or auto loan. Through the Equifax Credit Center on Bankrate.com, consumers can access financial tools and credit management information to help them make informed buying decisions and take charge of their financial future.

“Fast and convenient access to the same information and resources that lenders use can mean more buying power for the consumer,” said Steve Ely, group executive, Personal Solutions, Equifax. “The Equifax Credit Center on Bankrate.com educates consumers on ways to use credit strategically to achieve financial goals – giving them increased bargaining power when it comes to negotiating loan terms.”

Together, Bankrate.com and the Equifax Credit Center feature credit management information as well as tips and personal finance stories to guide consumers looking to purchase their first home, buy a new car or save for retirement. Available at www.equifax.com/sitePages/creditCenter/partners/Bankrate/, the Credit Center offers personal credit management tools such as Score Watch™, a score monitoring service that alerts consumers when there is a change to their credit score that can affect a loan interest rate. Consumers that take advantage of Score Watch can quickly determine current average interest rates associated with specific credit score ranges.

“Bankrate’s mission is to provide consumers with the information and advice they need to make better-informed personal finance decisions,” said Bruce J. Zanca, SVP Marketing at Bankrate. “Our new collaboration with Equifax enables us to offer expert guidance to consumers preparing for a major purchase while learning about the latest tools and resources to help them guard against identity theft,” Mr. Zanca added.