Center for Responsible Lending

The Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) is a non-profit, non-partisan research and policy organization dedicated to protecting homeownership and family wealth by working to curb predatory lending practices. Established as an affiliate of Self-Help, a leading community development financial institution, CRL conducts in-depth research and advocates for fair financial policies at both state and federal levels.

CRL's primary focus areas include mortgage lending, payday and small-dollar loans, vehicle-title loans, earned wage advances, solar system financing, student loans, and debt collection practices. They actively inform policymakers, industry leaders, and the public on the importance of responsible lending to build a financial market that better serves all consumers, particularly low-income families and communities of color.

With staff located in Durham, NC, Washington, DC, and Oakland, CA, CRL engages in various initiatives, including expert testimonies, policy recommendations, and the newly launched Julian Bond Institute for Financial Equity Research. Their commitment lies in fostering economic opportunity and stability by addressing systemic issues that lead to wealth drain through abusive financial products.