CFPB Advances Data Reporting and Complaint System Reforms

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) announced a significant step with a joint final rule on June 25, 2026, aimed at establishing uniform standards for reporting financial data [CFPB Newsroom]. This initiative is expected to streamline how financial institutions report data, potentially benefiting both regulators and consumers through greater transparency and consistency.

In related news, the CFPB is actively working to correct long-standing issues within its consumer complaint system. A press release on June 24, 2026, indicated that the current portal has faced challenges that limit its effectiveness in addressing consumer concerns and the utility of its information. The CFPB's efforts are focused on restoring integrity and practical use to the system [CFPB Newsroom].

Additionally, the CFPB engaged with Bilt to ensure consumers affected by Bilt's transition to a new banking partner were adequately remedied. This action follows issues arising from the transition, with the CFPB meeting Bilt officials to understand steps taken to assist affected customers [CFPB Newsroom].

FTC Alerts Military to Debt Relief Scams

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued urgent warnings to military personnel regarding a rise in debt relief scams. A consumer alert published on July 6, 2026, highlighted how scammers promise to resolve debt problems, tricking individuals into paying them instead of actual lenders. The FTC advises caution if callers offer enrollment in what they term "military debt forgiveness" programs [FTC Consumer Alerts].

This alert is part of a broader campaign during Military Consumer Month 2026, which commenced on July 1, 2026. The FTC emphasizes that discussing scams openly helps prevent them and aims to educate the military community about sophisticated tactics used by fraudsters to steal money and benefits [FTC Consumer Alerts]. The FTC's general advice for consumers includes skepticism towards unsolicited offers, especially those promising quick fixes for financial difficulties, and verifying the legitimacy of any program or organization before sharing personal or financial information.

Mortgage Data and Lending Thresholds

The CFPB marked the availability of the 2025 Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) loan application register data on March 31, 2026. This data, accessible via the FFIEC's HMDA Platform, provides critical insights into mortgage lending practices, supporting fair lending research and analysis [CFPB Newsroom].

Furthermore, on December 15, 2025, the CFPB, in conjunction with the Federal Reserve Board (FRB) and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), announced the dollar thresholds for 2026. These thresholds determine which consumer credit and lease transactions fall under specific protections of Regulation Z (Truth in Lending) and Regulation M (Consumer Leasing). Separate announcements also detailed dollar thresholds for the smaller loan exemption from appraisal requirements for higher-priced mortgage loans [CFPB Newsroom]. These annual adjustments help define the scope of consumer protections in lending and leasing agreements.