Which of the following is NOT protected under ECOA?

The correct answer is that disability is not specifically protected under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA). The ECOA is designed to prevent discrimination in any aspect of credit transactions based on certain protected classes, which include race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, and age (provided the applicant has the capacity to enter into a contract).

Disability, while an important protected class under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other related legislation, is not explicitly listed in the ECOA as a category for protection against credit discrimination. Therefore, people with disabilities are not granted the same specific protections under the ECOA as those provided for the other listed classes.

Understanding the nuances of legislation such as ECOA and ADA is crucial for professionals in real estate and finance, as it impacts compliance obligations and the treatment of various applicants seeking credit. This distinction highlights the importance of knowing which federal laws apply in specific circumstances, especially when it comes to ensuring equitable access to credit.