For businesses seeking to furnish data using the Metro 2® format but lacking sufficient reporting volume, a Stacking Service or Third-Party Processor, such as The Service Bureau, provides a reliable solution by aggregating tradelines into a single “stacked” file for submission to the credit bureaus. Because reporting requirements vary by bureau, they will typically specify whether a business may report directly or must submit through a third-party processor; however, businesses reporting larger volumes, generally more than 500 accounts, are often permitted to report directly without the need for a processor. Confirming these requirements with the credit bureaus in advance is essential to ensure Metro 2 compliance, data accuracy, and proper submission.
How to report credit using a third-party processor/stacking service:
- Obtain Necessary Agreements & Codes - Secure a Data Furnisher or Service Agreement and a Subscriber Code from each U.S. credit bureau (Equifax, Experian, Innovis, TransUnion) you plan to report to using a third-party processor.
- Meet the account/tradeline reporting minimums - Ensure your accounts meet the tradeline reporting minimums required by each bureau for processing or stacking services.
- Adhere to Metro 2 Standards - All reported accounts must comply with the guidelines outlined in the Metro 2 Credit Reporting Resource Guide®.
- Utilize Credit Manager Software - Use Credit Manager to ensure data accuracy, maintain compliance with Metro 2 format standards, and simplify uploads to our processing service.
For additional information: How To Report Credit
Please Note: Consumers (Individuals) reporting personal loans are not eligible to use this service.
