# RATA Associates - Full Content

Full text of the highest-value compliance software pages on rataassociates.com.

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Source: https://rataassociates.com/geocoding/

TITLE: HMDA Geocoding Services | Compliance-Grade Census Tract Assignment | RATA

## Compliance-Grade Geocoding: 98%+ Accuracy for FFIEC Filing
GeoPlus™ Fully Automated Processing Market-Grade BISG Proxy Custom QuickPoint™ Web Services ZOOM FAQ Geocoding Software
## HMDA Geocoding Services: Compliance-Grade Accuracy for Your LAR
ge•o•code [ jee - uh -kohd] n. A set of letters or numbers representing the geographic location of a point in the plane of the Earth. - vt. geocoded, geocoding, geocodes.
- The process of converting a residential or commercial property's street address into latitude and longitude coordinates.
- Translating the latitude and longitude into a set of geographic codes for analysis and reporting.
- Providing the capability of mapping the location of the property against demographics associated with the geographic codes.
Most geocoding professionals will agree that geocoding is a relative term, depending upon the specific application and desired output. For example, when geocodes are used for HMDA/CRA Compliance, a high degree of precision on as many records as possible is required; the use of geocodes for marketing purposes and/or basic analysis may allow for lower precision and completeness levels. Selecting the right geocoding solution requires careful consideration of the purpose, expected volume and frequency of processing, the desired degree of precision and the immediacy of the results.
RATA Associates, LLC has specialized in providing geocoding services since 1987 and today is the leading provider of outsourced geocoding services to the financial services industry. Using a proprietary process, RATA leverages a dozen proprietary and commercially-available geocoding data sources organized in a 13-step process against one another for every address we geocode in order to derive the highest precision result possible. RATA's services offer several geocoding solutions designed to provide cost-effective geocoding services tailored to the customer's requirements.
If you are looking for a geocoding solution, RATA is ready and willing to help you identify the geocoding solution that most cost-effectively meets your business purpose. When you choose RATA as your geocoding solution, you can rest assured that you have made the right decision. RATA's highly skilled professional staff geocodes millions of address records every year; there's simply no substitute for that kind of experience. So whichever geocoding solution you choose, you will get the best value for your budget dollar. Guaranteed!
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## What Is GeoPlus™ Compliance-Grade Geocoding?
Our premium GeoPlus geocoding is designed to provide Compliance-grade™ geocoding results at the highest precision possible for all records submitted. RATA achieves this high precision by processing every record through a combination of proprietary, commercial and online geocode data sources to find the highest precision value possible. When these processes fail to provide an acceptable result, our Geocode Technicians will work interactively with each address to scrub and correct address deficiencies and find the correct geocodes for the address provided.
Though it is possible under optimal circumstances for a company using other geocoding solutions to match the quality results of RATA's Premium geocoding services, chances are no one can beat our results. That's because no single address-matching engine or reference file can return 100% complete and accurate results all of the time, and it takes experienced and skilled staff to perform the interactive portion of the work.
Typical users of GeoPlus geocoding solutions are banks, credit unions and mortgage companies who are required under HMDA/CRA to provide the most accurate geocode results for every record submitted to their regulatory agency. FCC Form 477 reporters may also opt for this higher degree of accuracy to meet their bi-annual reporting requirements.
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## How Does Fully Automated Processing (FAP) Geocoding Work?
Our standard geocoding, known as Fully Automated Processing or FAP, processes all records through seven of our in-house automated geocoders and returns the best result possible without the use of online sources or manual intervention. This process is best suited to records that are not meant for HMDA/CRA reporting but may be analyzed in conjunction with HMDA/CRA application data, such as Motor Vehicle and Credit Card loans. The results of the FAP process easily bests any single source geocoding solution and in fact are usually sufficient for FCC Form 477 bi-annual reporting for most broadband and telephone providers.
Typical users of FAP geocoding are banks and credit unions who desire to analyze their extended loan portfolio containing application data that is not reported with their HMDA/CRA reporting. FCC Form 477 reporters are typically able to utilize the FAP process reliably to obtain the precision necessary to meet FCC requirements.
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## What Is Market-Grade Geocoding Used For?
If your company simply needs geocoding for marketing purposes, then RATA's Market-Grade (Bulk/Centroid) geocoding services are the affordable option. Market-Grade processing is used for business applications that do not require highly accurate or 100% complete address matching. All address files received for Market-Grade geocoding are processed through our top geocoding data source to provide the best single pass geocode result possible.
RATA's Standard Bulk geocoding service utilizes three of our seven address matching engines. For an additional fee, RATA offers Enhanced Market-Grade processing that includes one additional address matching routine that will typically improve the composite file match rate and the overall file accuracy level.
Typical users of Market-Grade geocoding are companies interested in targeting certain areas for business opportunities using demographic qualities associated with geocoding results.
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## What Is Bayesian Improved Surname Geocoding (BISG)?
In September of 2014, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) improved upon existing methodologies for deriving the race of an individual when it is unknown. This process combined the Census Bureau's Surname List from the 2010 census with the block group, census tract or ZIP code demographics of the area to estimate the individual's race. This methodology is now considered the de facto standard in estimating race and has been used by the CFPB in litigation on numerous occasions. RATA was one of the first to provide this method by combining the results of our GeoPlus geocoding service with the Census Bureau's surname list to derive the BISG Race Proxy given the surname of the individual.
We have refined the BISG process and have also introduced two other proxy methodologies into the process for ethnicity based upon surname and sex based upon forename. When RATA performs BISG processing, the customer provides the forename and surname of the individual (up to two). We then geocode using our GeoPlus geocoding service to obtain the highest precision possible, then using the appropriate demographics based upon the geocode precision, we derive the BISG Race Proxy, Ethnicity Proxy and Sex Proxy for each individual.
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## Custom Geocoding
RATA will customize its geocoding services for business applications whose needs are not completely met by any of our existing geocoding services. Our Geocoding Services department will work with you to define which data elements you need returned, the level of accuracy and completeness desired, the format(s) you will use to send us your address data, and the format(s) you want us to use to return the geocoded results. If you are looking for data elements that RATA does not have available, be sure to speak with our sales staff. We will be happy to research alternative data sources to solve your unique geocoding needs.
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## How Does RATA's QuickPoint™ API Geocode Addresses in Real Time?
RATA's QuickPoint Web Services (QPWS) allows for seamless integration between our top geocoding data source and customer's data processing systems. Used heavily by Loan Origination Systems (LOS) , QPWS allows the customer's system to submit address data to RATA's QPWS server and receive a nearly instantaneous response complete with all of our typical geocode data elements. The advantage to this method of "up-front" geocoding is the ability to determine what products can be offered to the applicant based upon the demographics of the area.
From a technical perspective, QPWS is a RESTful API service that takes standard HTTP GET and POST requests over a TLS connection, then processes and returns JSON responses of the corresponding geocoding data elements. All geocodes derived through QPWS are of regulatory precision and the user can elect to receive either a centroid or no result on records that cannot be geocoded.
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## ZOOM Geocoder
The ZOOM Geocoder is a web-based tool that is designed for geocoding hard-to-find addresses as well as auditing other processes to make sure they are producing correct results. The ZOOM Geocoder utilizes 8 of the Internet's best and most up-to-date geocoders and mapping programs available. If these automated geocoders can't find an address, no automated tool can. It then consolidates the results from all of the geocoders and shows them on a RATA-enhanced Google map. By analyzing the results displayed, the user can compare all of the results on one page and select the correct tract quickly and easily.
The ZOOM Geocoder can also be integrated into a customer's data processing system directly if desired.
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## Common Questions About RATA Geocoding Services
What is Compliance-grade geocoding? Compliance-grade geocoding meets FFIEC standards for HMDA reporting accuracy, using Census Bureau TIGER data to assign precise census tract, county, and MSA codes to property addresses with 99%+ accuracy.
What is the turnaround time for RATA geocoding services? GeoPlus full-service geocoding typically delivers results within 2-3 business days. Rush processing is available for urgent HMDA filing deadlines. QuickPoint Web Services provides instant real-time results via API.
How accurate is RATA's geocoding compared to other providers? RATA achieves 98%+ accuracy using a proprietary 13-step process with 10 data sources. Our GeoPlus service includes manual verification by geocoding technicians, ensuring the highest precision possible for HMDA/CRA compliance.
Can RATA geocode addresses in US territories? Yes, RATA is one of the few providers able to geocode addresses in American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Islands using proprietary geocoders designed specifically for these territories.
## Frequently Asked Questions
What elements are provided with RATA Geocoding? All RATA geocoding solutions provide the following fields. Some geocoders cannot provide all of the fields listed so in some cases the fields may be blank.
Geographic Data Elements Postal Coding Possibilities Demographic Data Elements
MSA/MD Standardized Street Address Census Tract Income Indicator
FIPS State Code Standardized City Tract Median Family Income Percent
FIPS County Code Standardized State Decennial Tract Median Family Income
Census Tract Standardized ZIP Code Decennial MSA/MD Median Family Income
Census Block Group Standardized ZIP+4 Code FFIEC Adjusted MSA/MD Median Family Income
Census Block Standardized Urbanization (Puerto Rico) * Minority Population
Latitude Delivery Point * Minority Population Percent
Longitude Delivery Point Check Digit * **
Time Zone * Carrier Route (CRRT) *
Congress Number * eLot Number *
Congressional District * eLot Order *
FIPS Place Code * Address Type *
GNIS Feature Code * ZIP Code Type *
* Optional element provided upon request ** Additional Demographic Data elements available upon request
Can RATA geocode records in US territories? RATA is one of the few companies able to geocode records in the US territories of American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Islands. We rely heavily on proprietary geocoders designed by RATA since most commercial geocoders ignore these areas.
What is RATA's Geocoding fallback hierarchy? RATA will always attempt to obtain Absolute Match values for all addresses being processed. If an address is unable to be assigned an Absolute Match after manual interaction, then fallback methods will be utilized. RATA will always return the most precise fallback value that can be determined for a particular address (ZIP+2, 5 digit ZIP, City or County). All records containing fallback values will be assigned Geocode precision codes so that they might be reviewed, corrected and re-geocoded.
Can RATA Geocode Rural Routes and P.O. Boxes? RATA can correctly geocode Rural Routes in most cases. Many geocoders will assign values that correlate to the Post Office that does the delivery, but our process involves data that can in most cases geocode more closely to the actual property location on the Rural Route itself. As for PO Boxes, RATA's process in most cases returns the geocode values for the Post Office location itself, since this is where the PO Box resides.
Why is GeoPlus right for Compliance Applications? Regulators emphasize that the starting point of HMDA and CRA compliance is good quality data. The single most important aspect of data quality is how well it is geocoded. RATA Associates has assisted lending institutions since 1989 in complying with HMDA and CRA needs. We are recognized among all regulatory agencies as an experienced and professional service bureau whose geocoding results can be trusted. When you use RATA's Service Geocoding you will:
- Be spared the substantial time required to interactively or manually match addresses to the correct census tract.
- No longer need to rely on Zip Code centroiding to assign a census tract.
- Be confident that your next exam's geocoding results will meet all regulatory requirements.
- Have more time to focus on analyzing your data.
How does GeoPlus Work? Using a proprietary methodology developed and improved upon since 1994, RATA takes your addresses and runs them through 10 proprietary and commercial geocode data sources in a 13-step process that returns the highest precision geocode possible.
- All addresses are standardized using both U.S. Postal Service CASS certified software and manual techniques.
- All addresses are processed through a thirteen-stage process designed to maximize the number of accurate matches.
## Geocoding Software
## Learn More About Geocoding
Find out how Geocoding can help your institution achieve compliance goals more efficiently.
Request More Information Have Questions? Contact Us
## Products & Services
- Comply HMDA/CRA/SBL
- Comply Fair Lending
- Comply Peer-2-Peer
- Comply DataMine
- Comply Mapping
- Comply SBL (1071)
- ComplyBI
- ZOOM Geocoder
- Geocoding
- FCC Form 477
- RATA Hosted Services
## Support
- RATA Support
- Video Training
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- Contact Support
## News & Resources
- News
- Comply News
- Industry Articles
- Rate Spread Calculator
- HMDA and CRA Reporting
- Fair Lending Compliance
- Section 1071 (SBL)
- Mapping Services
- Links & Resources
## Company
- Founder & Mission
- History
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- Testimonials
- News & Updates
- Contact
## 407.831.RATA (7282)
1916 Boothe Cir Longwood, FL 32750
sales[at]rataassociates[dot]com
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Source: https://rataassociates.com/comply-fair-lending/

TITLE: Comply Fair Lending Risk Analysis Software

## FFIEC-Based Fair Lending Analysis
Comply Fair Lending helps you identify disparities before they become enforcement actions. Run the same statistical tests examiners use—regression analysis for pricing, BISG proxy methods for demographics, comparative file review for underwriting—and address issues proactively. Built on FFIEC and CFPB examination procedures, Comply provides exam-ready documentation that demonstrates your institution's commitment to fair lending.
## Analyze All Loan Types:
- Real Estate Loans (HMDA)
- Indirect and Direct Auto Loans
- Credit Card and Unsecured Loans
- Consumer and Small Business Loans
- Custom loan products
## Identify 12 Key Risk Factors:
- Pricing Disparities (APR, Fees)
- Underwriting Inconsistencies
- Redlining Patterns
- Steering to Subprime Products
- Fee and Overage Disparities
- Or create custom risk models
## Fair Lending Analysis Software: Find and Fix Risk Before Examiners Do
Last updated: August 6, 2026
Regulators use statistical analysis to find fair lending violations. Use the same tools they do—before they arrive. Comply Fair Lending runs regression analysis, BISG proxy testing, and risk scoring using FFIEC examination procedures, helping you identify and remediate issues proactively while demonstrating your commitment to fair lending compliance.
39
Years of Expertise
Trusted compliance software since 1987
12
Risk Factors Analyzed
Comprehensive fair lending assessment
CFPB
Exam-Ready Analysis
Meets all regulatory requirements
## How Does RATA Identify Fair Lending Issues Across FFIEC Risk Factors?
Spot potential discrimination patterns instantly with comprehensive risk scorecards covering all 12 FFIEC fair lending risk factors. Click any cell to drill directly into application-level data—no closing reports or rebuilding filters. Create custom scorecards for your institution's specific risk areas or use our examiner-tested templates. Interactive scorecards cut fair lending analysis time from weeks to hours, letting you investigate anomalies immediately while examiners wait days for manual reports.
Users can add new fields, parametric or nonparametric comparisons, and report groups; apply conditional formatting; and specify display options.
## What Regression Tests Does RATA Run for Fair Lending Analysis?
Perform logistic regression for underwriting and linear regression for pricing—the exact methodologies CFPB and federal examiners apply during fair lending examinations. Test for unexplained disparities in approval rates, interest rates, and fees while controlling for legitimate underwriting factors like credit score, LTV, and DTI. Identify statistically significant disparities before regulators do, then target your remediation efforts on applications with the highest risk residuals.
Field values can be automatically transformed, error-checked, and dummy-coded on the fly. This is something that is particularly cumbersome with other commercial Fair Lending packages, since it is typically a manual process (i.e. before processing the model, a user has to manually update field values). Optionally, the post-processed variable values can be exported for analysis in an external package.
In addition, dummy-coded variables can be created automatically by the system, based on breakdowns of alphabetic, numeric, or date values.
The regression module has a robust set of consistency verification tools to help identify relationships between variables.
The loan-application-level output statistics can be analyzed like any other field value in Comply. This includes filtering and sorting, cells for scorecards, and selection criteria for file reviews. Automation can be used to group applications by these output statistics (e.g. set up a rule to automatically group applications where the standardized residual value is +/- 3). No other Fair Lending package allows this level of analysis.
BISG Proxy Analysis: Analyze All Borrowers, Not Just Self-Reported Demographics: Over 40% of applicants don't provide race or ethnicity data. Comply uses CFPB-approved BISG (Bayesian Improved Surname Geocoding) methodology to estimate demographics for non-reporting borrowers, giving you complete fair lending coverage. Run comprehensive fair lending analysis on your entire portfolio—including applications where borrowers didn't self-report—using the same proxy methods regulators apply during examinations.
## How Does RATA Compare Loan Files for Fair Lending Disparities?
Reports and scorecards show the potential for risk at an aggregate level, but at the lowest level an analyst should be able to quickly and easily compare similar loan applications across groups. The criteria by which applications in a comparative file review are partitioned into groups, matched for similarity, and reduced to a pool of eligible application pairs must allow for ultimate flexibility.
Once an application pair pool is created, Comply allows the user to document each pair at every level of analysis by providing notes at the file review level, the application pair level, the application level, and even down to the individual field comparison level.
## Seamless Integration
Along with Comply's native statistical analysis tools, users have access to total integration with any external analysis package. Create user fields to represent additional values, automatically export data, run external commands, and reimport the results with a single click.
These fields, generated from an external package, can then be used just like any other field value in Comply. This includes creating scorecards and file reviews.
## System Features
Synchronization: Users can check out subsets of data from the primary server in order to work offline. The offline data can then be checked back into the server after the offline work has been completed.
Filtering and sorting: Access to Comply's application data is facilitated by a robust set of filtering, sorting, and sampling functionality. These filters can be designed on the fly, saved, and loaded with any set of application data. Filtered or individually selected applications can be saved as flexible application groups, which can then be used as data sources for any analysis � automated or interactive.
In addition to the filter designer, the Field Explorer allows users quick and easy access to filtered sets of application data by breaking the parent filter down by any field values in Comply.
The field explorer can also be used for other types of exploratory statistical analysis.
Intuitive interface: Comply's user interface was designed to keep the look and feel of other commonly used applications (e.g. the Microsoft Office suite). The context-based ribbon design makes tasks available to the user as needed to reduce clutter and confusion.
Applications can be viewed and edited in a data-entry form view or in a list-style spreadsheet view. The view is customizable by field list templates.
## Automation
Design once: All of the views and processes in Comply can be designed using templates (called "Definitions" in the software), which can then be used throughout the system. In addition to the standard processes (e.g. importing and exporting data), this includes Fair Lending analysis automation, user-defined scorecards, regression models, and file reviews.
Auto-Pilot: Comply's Auto-Pilot can be used for offline and online automation. Create jobs to execute repetitive tasks, schedule the jobs to run offline (as an optional, separately installed service on the server or client), or run the jobs manually from within Comply.
Analysis automation: When creating a new analysis workspace, or at any point during analysis, the Analysis Automation Wizard can be used to filter and group application data, identify outliers, set field values, and create new elements (e.g. scorecards, regression models, file reviews).
The steps used in analysis automation can be defined in templates or created on the fly. Users specify conditions and actions for each step, and when the process is executed, Comply evaluates the step properties and applies any relevant action.
Processing: The modular design of Comply allows users to run processes individually or in batch mode. This includes edit checks, geocoding, setting field values, etc.
Other commercial Fair Lending software packages have a single "update" process with no user control. This "update" process also copies all of the non-relational second-tier information (e.g. demographics) to the individual loan application.
Geocoding: Comply's integrated batch and single-application geocoding is the most accurate compliance-grade geocoder available. In addition, users have access to the ZOOM interactive geocoder, which allows you to view a map of results for several geocoding data sources.
## Architecture
Comply's server is built on a single Microsoft SQL Server database. The workstation software (and optional add-on services and software, e.g. Auto-Pilot) are built using the latest Microsoft .NET technology. Enterprise functionality forms the backbone of the Comply framework, including user- and group-level security, offline database synchronization, extensive offline and online automation, and integration with Windows and/or SQL authentication.
Comply's database is fully relational. Integrity between tables is enforced by local and foreign key constraints. Other commercial Fair Lending software adds geographic and demographic information to each individual application; this is necessary in their case because each dataset is its own database.
Organization: Within the hierarchy of datasets in Comply, users can create folders to better organize and secure their data. Workspaces are created to contain and organize all of the elements involved in any statistical analysis (regression models, file reviews, scorecards, application groups, etc.).
Flexibility: Comply allows an unlimited number of user-defined fields of any data type. These fields can be used anywhere in the system: as filtering and sorting fields, variables in a regression model, cells and statistics tests on a scorecard, etc. Individual user fields can be shown or hidden for specific datasets.
Multitasking: Comply uses a tab-based interface, which allows users to keep multiple sets of data, reports, or other tasks open at the same time. Each tab maintains a history of its filtered set of data, so navigating between tasks and within the history of a given tab is as easy as clicking.
## Et cetera...
There are far too many additional features to mention here, all of which stand out from our competition in flexibility and ease of use. For example:
- Filter applications during the import process; import any type of fixed-length or delimited file
- Set field values at a global or filtered level; run custom and standard edit checks, calculate rate spreads (all or official), dupe check
- Sample data using 5 different regulatory methods and create application groups for auditing
- Create official LAR and MicroData files; encrypt submission files directly in the system
- Let AutoUpdates service keep your software and dynamic system data up-to-date
- Create performance evaluation and disclosure tables for HMDA and CRA (in addition to many other reports)
- Built-in mapping component
- and much more...
## Advanced Analysis & Regression
All of the tools that you need to analyze your application data, identify lending patterns and assess risk using the simple and familiar Comply interface.
## Workspaces
Applications groups, Data Mines, File Reviews, and Regression Models are all conveniently packaged together and accessed through a common dashboard. Organize applications and analysis elements into logical groups. Define focal points at an arbitrary level of granularity and then create reports or risk scorecards, access interactive charts, generate regression prediction sets and much more.
## Field Explorer
Browse loan information interactively at a summary level. Drill down to focal points. Create Data Mines, File Reviews, Reports, Application Groups, and Regression Models from selected collections of applications.
## How Does RATA Normalize Data Across Origination Systems?
Identify missing or invalid data. Focus on applications with incomplete information or data entry errors. Update or remove outlying data from your analysis workspace. Use automated tools to help you find and correct anomalies.
Compare fields and identify trends or data integrity issues. Use interactive charts to filter or manipulate data graphically.
## Regression
Create regression models using any set of applications in Comply. Quickly assess model and parameter quality, analyze variance and variable significance. Perform cross-validation to identify weaknesses in training or testing sets.
Create model variables using any field information in Comply. Transform numeric values to correct distribution issues, dummy-code character data on the fly, or create contrasts to test for variable significance.
## Analyze Results
Create risk scorecards to find areas that need attention. Use regression models to generate reports that will help you identify disparities in predicted pricing. Print summary information or save and post it on an internal website for executives or employees. Compare analysis reports between periods of time, assessment areas, underwriters, brokers, or any other groups of applications.
## How Does RATA Support Comparative File Reviews for Examiners?
Create sets of files for matched-pair analysis. Create file reviews from any set of applications or analysis elements. Create executive summary or detailed field analysis reports. Print matched file pairs that need further attention. Group and annotate file pairs for which no risk was identified.
## Fair Lending Resources
FFIEC Interagency Fair Lending Examination Procedures This overview provides a basic and abbreviated discussion of federal fair lending laws and regulations. It is adapted from the Interagency Policy Statement on Fair Lending issued in March 1994. http://www.ffiec.gov/pdf/fairlend.pdf
OCC Comptroller's Handbook (Fair Lending) Examiners use these procedures to evaluate a national bank's compliance with the Fair Housing Act (FH Act), Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), and the Federal Reserve Board's Regulation B. This booklet contains the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council's (FFIEC) "Interagency Fair Lending Examination Procedures," and appropriate OCC supplemental material. http://www.occ.treas.gov/publications/publications-by-type/comptrollers-handbook/fairlend.pdf http://www.chicagofed.org/digital_assets/others/region/community_reinvestment/bankers_guide_to_risk_based_fair_lending.pdf
GAO Data Limitations and the Fragmented U.S. Financial Regulatory Structure Challenge Federal Oversight and Enforcement Efforts GAO analyzed fair lending laws, relevant research, and interviewed agency officials, lenders, and consumer groups. GAO also reviewed 152 depository institution fair lending examination files. Depending upon file availability by regulator, GAO reviewed all relevant files or a random sample as appropriate. http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09704.pdf
Anatomy Of A Fair-Lending Exam: The Uses And Limitations Of Statistics In this paper, we consider the role of statistical analysis in fair-lending compliance examinations. We present a case study of an actual fair-lending examination of a large mortgage lender, demonstrating how statistical techniques can be a valuable tool in focusing examiner efforts to either uncover illegal discrimination or exonerate an institution so accused. http://www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/feds/2000/200015/200015pap.pdf
How Low Can You Go? An Optimal Sampling Strategy for Fair Lending Exams Empirical researchers face a tradeoff between the lower resource costs associated with smaller samples and the increased confidence in the results gained from larger samples. Choice of sampling strategy is one tool researchers can use to reduce costs yet still attain desired confidence levels. http://www.occ.treas.gov/publications/publications-by-type/economics-working-papers/2008-2000/wp2001-3.pdf
CRA And Fair Lending Regulations: Resulting Trends In Mortgage Lending In this article, we examine the evolution of the fair lending regulations and the CRA. We then summarize the economic literature that pertains to these regulations. http://www.chicagofed.org/digital_assets/publications/economic_perspectives/1996/epnd96b.pdf
FDIC Side by Side: A Guide to Fair Lending In this guide, which we first distributed in August of 1994, we provide alternative means that an institution may use to discover uneven customer service or inconsistent lending practices that may be discriminatory. This guide is not about finding discrimination, that is, violations of the fair lending laws. It's about tools that a lender can use to compare the treatment of loan applicants, identify differences and correct potential problems. http://www.fdic.gov/regulations/resources/side/side.pdf
Click Here for Fair Lending Cases & Settlements
## Frequently Asked Questions
What is BISG in Fair Lending analysis? BISG (Bayesian Improved Surname Geocoding) is a proxy method to estimate borrower race and ethnicity when not self-reported. Comply Fair Lending includes BISG analysis using CFPB-approved surname and geocoding data to support comprehensive fair lending reviews and ECOA compliance testing.
What statistical methods does Comply Fair Lending support? Comply Fair Lending provides logistic regression for underwriting analysis, linear regression for pricing analysis, comparative file review (matched-pair analysis), and risk scorecard generation. All methods follow FFIEC fair lending examination procedures and include built-in validation tools to verify model quality and statistical significance.
How does risk scoring work in Fair Lending analysis? Risk scorecards aggregate statistical results to identify high-risk areas requiring file review. Comply calculates disparities between control and protected class groups across underwriting decisions, pricing, and terms. Scorecards prioritize areas by statistical significance and practical impact, helping focus limited review resources on applications most likely to reveal fair lending concerns.
Can Comply Fair Lending help prepare for regulatory exams? Yes, Comply generates exam-ready reports following FFIEC procedures. Run fair lending analysis quarterly or annually to identify and remediate risks before examiners arrive. The software produces documentation examiners expect: regression model summaries, comparative file reviews, scorecard results, and corrective action tracking—demonstrating your proactive fair lending monitoring program.
## Comply Fair Lending vs Manual Analysis
See how software-driven analysis reduces risk and saves time
Analysis Task ✓ With Comply Fair Lending ✗ Manual Analysis
BISG Proxy Analysis Automated Bayesian Improved Surname Geocoding with Census Bureau surname list and tract demographics. Complete proxy analysis in minutes. Manual surname lookup in Census tables, manual geocoding, complex spreadsheet calculations. Hours of work, high error risk.
Regression Analysis Built-in logistic regression models for pricing and credit decisions. Automatic control variable inclusion, statistical significance testing, and results interpretation. Requires statistical software expertise (SAS, STATA, R). Manual data preparation, model specification errors common, difficult to replicate.
Comparative File Review Automated matched-pair selection based on your criteria. Side-by-side comparison reports with highlighted disparities and risk scoring. Manual file selection prone to bias. Time-consuming individual file reviews. Difficult to document methodology and ensure consistency.
Pricing Analysis Scatter plots, pricing disparity reports, and statistical tests for prohibited basis pricing differences. Visual identification of outliers and patterns. Manual Excel charts, limited statistical testing capability. Difficult to control for legitimate pricing factors. Results may not withstand examiner scrutiny.
Risk Scoring 12-factor risk scorecard with weighted assessment. Quantifies fair lending risk across multiple dimensions with actionable remediation priorities. Subjective risk assessment. Inconsistent evaluation criteria. Difficult to track risk changes over time or justify to examiners.
Documentation Exam-ready reports following FFIEC procedures. Complete audit trail, methodology documentation, and statistical validity evidence. Manual report creation. Inconsistent documentation. Examiners question methodology. Difficult to demonstrate systematic monitoring.
Time to Complete Analysis Hours for comprehensive fair lending review Days or weeks for partial analysis
Regulatory Updates Automatic updates to BISG surname list, FFIEC procedures, and regulatory guidance. No additional work required. Manual research and implementation of methodology changes. Risk of using outdated procedures or data sources.
Reduce Your Fair Lending Risk - Schedule Demo
## What Our Customers Say
Trusted by financial institutions nationwide for compliance excellence
Mark Mitchell
Panhandle State Bank
"The support has been exceptional. The program is very easy to use. RATA has been one of the best companies I have dealt with in my 25 years of banking. Their service has exceeded my expectations."
August 23, 2016
Paul D'Agostino
TruHome Solutions
"I wanted to let you know that RATA and Comply is the absolute best!!! My submission is complete and was accomplished in record time. I more than doubled the amount of activity I reported last year and it took me less than half the time. Thank you for being there for us and the industry! You are and always will be number one to me!!!"
May 20, 2015
Judy A. Edwards
Greer State Bank
"Would highly recommend both the product and the personnel!! Being able to accomplish what I did in such a short period of time is a testimonial to the product's user friendliness as well as the support I received from the great folks at RATA. Could not have done it without them!!!"
June 11, 2014
Read More Customer Success Stories
## Cite This Page
You may republish the figures and methodology on this page with attribution and a link to rataassociates.com/comply-fair-lending/ .
RATA Associates. "Comply Fair Lending: Interactive Risk Scorecards and Regression Analysis Software." RATA Associates . https://rataassociates.com/comply-fair-lending/
<a href="https://rataassociates.com/comply-fair-lending/">RATA Associates - Comply Fair Lending</a>
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## Methodology & Reuse Terms
The risk factors and regression tests on this page follow FFIEC fair lending examination procedures; the BISG (Bayesian Improved Surname Geocoding) proxy method follows the CFPB's published methodology. See the risk scorecard and regression testing sections above for how each is applied. RATA Associates maintains this page and updates it when FFIEC or CFPB guidance changes.
## Strengthen Your Fair Lending Program
Enhance your analysis with complementary compliance tools
## HMDA/CRA/SBL Data Collection
Collect, validate, and submit HMDA, CRA, and SBL data with integrated geocoding.
See how Comply works
## DataMine Reports
Build custom reports and compare lending patterns using comprehensive data analysis.
Discover DataMine reports
## Mapping & Visualization
Map lending patterns geographically to identify potential fair lending risks.
Visualize your lending data
## Peer-2-Peer Comparison
Benchmark your fair lending performance against peer institutions.
Benchmark your performance
## ComplyBI Dashboards
Turn your compliance data into interactive dashboards and board-ready reporting.
Explore ComplyBI
## Reduce Fair Lending Risk with Confidence
See how Comply Fair Lending uses FFIEC-based regression analysis and risk scoring to identify and address potential fair lending issues before they become problems.
Schedule Your Free Demo Have Questions? Contact Us
## Products & Services
- Comply HMDA/CRA/SBL
- Comply Fair Lending
- Comply Peer-2-Peer
- Comply DataMine
- Comply Mapping
- Comply SBL (1071)
- ComplyBI
- ZOOM Geocoder
- Geocoding
- FCC Form 477
- RATA Hosted Services
## Support
- RATA Support
- Video Training
- Live Training
- Contact Support
## News & Resources
- News
- Comply News
- Industry Articles
- Rate Spread Calculator
- HMDA and CRA Reporting
- Fair Lending Compliance
- Section 1071 (SBL)
- Mapping Services
- Links & Resources
## Company
- Founder & Mission
- History
- Organization
- Testimonials
- News & Updates
- Contact
## 407.831.RATA (7282)
1916 Boothe Cir Longwood, FL 32750
sales[at]rataassociates[dot]com
Copyright © 2026 RATA Associates LLC - All rights reserved. | Legal | Privacy | Site Map
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---

Source: https://rataassociates.com/comply-hmda-cra/

TITLE: Comply HMDA/CRA/SBL Compliance and Geocoding Software

## Trusted HMDA/CRA Software Since 1987
For over 39 years, RATA Associates has helped hundreds of institutions successfully submit millions of applications for Regulation C (HMDA), Regulation BB (CRA), and Small Business Lending (SBL 1071). Our software eliminates submission rejections, catches errors before filing, and ensures your data meets FFIEC validation requirements every year.
## Complete Compliance Automation
Comply handles every step of your HMDA/CRA/SBL workflow: automated data import from your LOS, 98%+ accurate geocoding, real-time edit checking against FFIEC validation rules, automatic rate spread calculations with weekly updates, and one-click submission file generation. Stop juggling spreadsheets and manual processes—Comply guarantees error-free filing while saving your team hundreds of hours annually.
Built on Microsoft .NET and SQL Server, Comply offers enterprise-grade reliability at a cost-effective price. Import millions of records in minutes, process complex geocoding instantly, and generate submission files with confidence.
## Support When You Need It
When you call for support during business hours, you'll always talk to a person—never a menu system. Most issues are resolved immediately by experts who know both the software and the regulations. We'll walk you through implementation, set up your import definitions, convert historical data, and get you up-and-running in a day. You focus on compliance strategy; we handle the technical details.
## HMDA/CRA/SBL Compliance Software: Submit Error-Free, On Time, Every Year
Last updated: August 6, 2026
Reduce HMDA compliance from weeks to days while eliminating costly submission rejections. Comply automates data import, geocoding, edit checking, and FFIEC submission—saving your compliance team hundreds of hours annually and ensuring regulatory-ready data every filing cycle.
39
Years of Expertise
Trusted compliance software since 1987
98%
Geocoding Accuracy
Compliance-grade precision you can trust
FFIEC
Certified Edit Checks
All FFIEC validation rules included
Schedule a Free Demo Today
## Automated Data Import: Load Your Entire LAR in Minutes
Stop manual data entry and eliminate transcription errors. Comply's intelligent Import Wizard automatically maps fields from any loan origination system—including Fiserv, FIS, Jack Henry, and custom platforms. Import your complete LAR in minutes with built-in data validation that catches errors during import, not after submission. Supports full file imports, incremental updates, and field-level corrections with automated data transformation using SQL.
## What HMDA Data Fields Does RATA Validate Before Submission?
Eliminate costly FFIEC rejections and resubmissions. Comply includes every FFIEC Validity and Quality edit check, automatically validating your LAR before submission. Run edit checks anytime to identify and fix data issues immediately—not after the CFPB rejects your file. Mark Quality edits as "QC Verified" to streamline your review process. When your edit check report shows zero errors, your submission is exam-ready and guaranteed to pass FFIEC validation.
## How Does RATA Calculate HMDA Rate Spread Automatically?
Stop manual rate spread calculations and spreadsheet errors. Comply automatically calculates HMDA rate spreads using the correct methodology—either Treasury Securities or APOR—based on each loan's characteristics. FFIEC rate tables update automatically every week, ensuring you always use current data without manual downloads or table updates. Calculate rate spreads for your entire portfolio in seconds with complete accuracy and audit trail documentation.
## What Geocoding Accuracy Does RATA Guarantee for HMDA Compliance?
Avoid geocoding errors that trigger FFIEC rejections. RATA's proprietary Compliance-grade geocoding delivers 98%+ accuracy using multiple data sources and validation layers—far exceeding commercial geocoders. Process your entire LAR in batch mode or geocode individual applications in real-time. All geocoding happens instantly on RATA's secure servers with automatic updates to Census Bureau TIGER data, so you're always working with current boundaries without any software maintenance.
## Data: Application View
When viewing and editing data in Comply you have two basic views: the Application View which shows all information for one record at a time, and the List view which shows you the data in an Excel type of data grid.
The Application View is a great way to see all of the pertinent data for a single application on one screen. Because of the number of fields, the application data is broken up into tabs to group information. You can view LAR data, Geocode data, User Field data, and a multitude of Fair Lending tabs of data.
## Data: List View
The List View offers you the opportunity to look at multiple applications at the same time. This is great for spotting trends or looking for multiple problems. With the List View, you can set up custom List View Definitions that will rearrange fields, hide fields and format fields for easy viewing. Once Views are defined, you simply select the view and you will only see the applicable fields! Some examples could be to show only fields related to address and geocodes, Rate Spread fields, LAR-only fields, etc.
## Filter
With the Comply Suite in general, you can filter your data down to whatever you need. You can run field filters, demographic filters, geographic filters or any combination thereof. Filters can be created through Wizards or through scripts for advanced users. You can also click on the Field Properties option that will show you how many records of each type are in a particular field. Then click on one of those options to go to that group of records! For example, you click on the Field Properties for Loan Type and the system displays how many applications you have for each loan type. Then if you want to view the Conventional Loans, just click on the link. It's that simple!
## Sort
In addition to extensive Filter capabilities, Comply HMDA/CRA/SBL also has extensive Sorting capabilities. Sorting is typically more noticeable in the List View but works in either. You can sort on any field in Comply by simply clicking on the header of that column in the List View. You can also create multi-tier sorts by clicking on the Sort Icon then selecting the fields you want to sort by, similar to the way Excel does it.
## How Does RATA Fix Errors Across Hundreds of HMDA Records at Once?
Stop fixing errors one record at a time. Global Operations let you update thousands of applications instantly—perfect for correcting systematic data issues or applying regulatory changes across your entire LAR. Filter to your target records, then apply changes in seconds with complete audit trail tracking. Role-based security ensures only authorized users can perform batch updates, and the Event History logs every change for compliance documentation.
## How Does RATA Submit HMDA/CRA Data Directly to the FFIEC?
Submit with confidence—no more rejected files or missed deadlines. The Submission Sentry performs a final comprehensive validation to ensure your LAR is 100% edit-free and fully geocoded before file creation. Comply generates submission files in exact CFPB format with all required data points, ready for direct upload to the FFIEC. The guided wizard walks you through every step, and your submission file passes FFIEC validation the first time, every time.
## Analysis
In addition to helping you collect and process your data, Comply HMDA/CRA/SBL also lets you Analyze your data. You can prepare Disclosure Tables, Performance reports, Assessment Areas Reports, Trend Analysis, Official Reports and much more.
## Custom Tables and Charts
If the multitude of reports in the Report Manager are not what you are looking for, then you can use the Custom Tables and Charts option to design your own custom reports. You can create up to two tiers on both the X and Y axes of LAR, Geographic or Demographic fields. You can also create Custom Tables for analyzing the demographic profile of your Assessment Area(s)!
## Mapping (Optional)
Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words and mapping can be that picture! With our optional mapping component you can map your Assessment Areas, shade the tracts by demographic characteristics, overlay Branches, ATM's, deposits and loan information as layers to show how well you are serving the needs of your different communities and neighborhoods.
## Auto-Pilot Automation (Optional): Set It Once, Run It Forever
Free your compliance team from repetitive monthly tasks. Auto-Pilot automates any Comply workflow—data imports, geocoding, edit checks, report generation, and more—running on your schedule without manual intervention. Schedule quarterly CRA reports, monthly HMDA updates, or weekly edit checks that run automatically overnight. Create automation scripts using the intuitive wizard, then reuse them as templates. It's like adding a tireless compliance assistant who works 24/7 without breaks, errors, or vacations.
## General Features
## Start Page
When you log into RATA Comply you will automatically be taken to the Start Page. The Start Page contains Current News, Spotlight Features, Resources and Recently Applied Files. The Start Page is updated via an RSS Feed, so you are always informed and up-to-date on RATA activities!
## Multiple Tabs and Views
One of Comply's most unique features is the multi-tab functionality. You can have multiple views of data, reports, maps and much more all open at the same time. Each Tab contains its own history and all are context sensitive. You can close individual tabs or close tabs by type.
## Auto-Updates
One of Comply's most powerful features is the ability to make the Geocoding and system data updates seamless and effortless for the user. With Comply the Auto-Update process will automatically transfer Geocode files to and from our server so that you don't have to manually upload and download the files. For institutions that may have firewall issues or restrictions, this process can still be done manually. System Data such as Treasury Rate Tables, Demographic Data updates, etc. are also automatically pulled to your system and a user can simply click 'Update' to update the system data.
## Definition and Report Manager
The Definition Manager and Report Manager in Comply is a powerful and easy way to manage your definitions and reports. The Comply managers will allow you to create, edit, categorize, move and assign definitions and reports in a consistent and easy way.
## Duplicate Record Handling
Handling Duplicate Applications is a task that must be handled somewhere. There are advantages and disadvantages to the different methodologies, but Comply can handle all scenarios. You can identify Duplicate Applications based on the standard which is Application Number and resolve all of the dupes in either a one by one mode or a batch mode if applicable. To take it one step further you can search for dupes on any field. If you want to identify applications with the same address, simply run the Dupe Check utility on the Address Field and Comply will show only records with the same address in multiple records!
## Centralized Data Access
With the Comply system, individual components (HMDA, CRA, SBL and Fair Lending) are centrally located in the Data Manager allowing seamless access to all data stored in the Comply Database. In addition to standard features available to all components, Comply also makes available certain component specific features based upon your selection in the Date Manager.
## User Access, Rights and Privileges
With all of the components being accessed from one icon, there became a need to enhance the User Rights and Privileges within the system. Now with User Access, you can define User Groups for each component and assign access rights for each component. When creating custom User Groups you will have full access to customize permissions any way you like. Comply also supports Windows Authentication for automatic sign in.
## System Requirements
Download/Print PDF
## Frequently Asked Questions
What features does Comply HMDA CRA software include? Comply includes data importing from any origination system, compliance-grade geocoding with 98%+ accuracy, automated FFIEC edit checking, rate spread calculation, assessment area mapping, custom reporting, and direct FFIEC submission capabilities. The software handles HMDA, CRA, and SBL 1071 reporting in a single integrated platform.
Does Comply handle SBL 1071 reporting? Yes, Comply includes a dedicated SBL (Small Business Lending) module to handle Section 1071 data collection and reporting requirements for all phases of CFPB implementation. The SBL module includes owner demographic tracking, application-level data management, and CFPB-compliant submission file generation.
What is the HMDA filing deadline? The HMDA filing deadline is March 1st annually for data collected in the previous calendar year. Comply software helps institutions prepare and submit on time with built-in validation, automated geocoding, and comprehensive edit checks that identify issues before submission.
Can Comply import data from my loan origination system? Yes, Comply's flexible Import Wizard supports data from any origination system including Fiserv, FIS, Jack Henry, Finastra, and custom systems. The wizard handles fixed-length files, delimited files (CSV, tab, pipe), and direct database connections with field mapping and data transformation capabilities.
Can Comply run our LAR import automatically every morning? Yes. Auto-Pilot, an optional add-on, runs scheduled workflows. You build a job once in the wizard, chaining steps like the import from your LOS, geocoding, edit checks and report generation, then schedule it to run on its own, for example every morning before your team starts. You can also run a job by hand from inside Comply, and a saved job works as a template for the next one. Auto-Pilot never submits anything: a person still reviews the LAR and files it.
## Comply HMDA/CRA vs Manual Processing
See how Comply software streamlines compliance and saves time
Task ✓ With Comply Software ✗ Manual Process
Geocoding Automated batch processing with 98%+ compliance-grade accuracy. Census tract, MSA, and county assignment in minutes. Manual lookup using Census Bureau tools. Hours of work, frequent errors, inconsistent results.
Edit Checking All FFIEC validity and quality edits run instantly. Errors identified before submission with clear explanations. Manual review after FFIEC submission rejects your file. Resubmission delays, compliance risk.
Rate Spread Calculation Automated calculation using current APOR tables updated weekly. Handles both old and new methodologies. Manual calculation using FFIEC tools or spreadsheets. Risk of using outdated rate tables.
Data Import Import Wizard supports any LOS format. Field mapping, data conversion, and validation in one step. Manual data entry or complex spreadsheet manipulation. High error rate, time-consuming.
Submission File Generation One-click FFIEC submission file creation in correct format. Validated before export. Manual file formatting with text editors. Format errors common, submission rejections frequent.
Time to File Days from data collection to submission Weeks or months of manual work
Audit Trail Complete change history, user tracking, and documentation for examiner review. Manual documentation, incomplete records, difficult to reconstruct decisions.
Annual Updates Automatic regulatory updates, edit check changes, and new MSA/tract boundaries included. Manual research and implementation of regulatory changes. Risk of missing critical updates.
See Comply in Action - Schedule Your Demo
## What Our Customers Say
Trusted by financial institutions nationwide for compliance excellence
Margaret Dolinger
TCA
"RATA provides the tools and resources to assist with lending pattern analysis for fair lending and CRA to maintain appropriate monitoring and reporting. The staff at RATA are helpful and will provide assistance quickly when needed."
May 25, 2022
Scott Shie
River Funding Corporation
"The folks at RATA were outstanding. Every time I had a question, I would speak to someone who either knew the answer immediately or could provide the answer within a very short period of time. Everyone I spoke with knew their product, industry and was willing to do whatever it took to help us solve our problem. I would highly recommend RATA and COMPLY to anyone who is considering this company and product."
December 10, 2016
Mark Mitchell
Panhandle State Bank
"The support has been exceptional. The program is very easy to use. RATA has been one of the best companies I have dealt with in my 25 years of banking. Their service has exceeded my expectations."
August 23, 2016
Read More Customer Success Stories
## Enhance Your Compliance Solution
Discover additional tools that work seamlessly with Comply HMDA/CRA/SBL
## Fair Lending Analysis
Identify lending risks with statistical analysis and regression modeling based on FFIEC procedures.
Explore Fair Lending tools
## DataMine Reports
Create comprehensive reports using HMDA, CRA, peer, demographic, and deposit data.
See DataMine in action
## Mapping & Visualization
Visualize lending patterns with customized maps and geographic analysis tools.
View mapping capabilities
## Peer-2-Peer Analysis
Compare your lending patterns to peers with flexible benchmarking reports.
Compare to your peers
## ComplyBI Dashboards
Turn your compliance data into interactive dashboards and board-ready reporting.
Explore ComplyBI
## Ready to Simplify Your HMDA/CRA Compliance?
See how Comply HMDA/CRA/SBL streamlines data collection, edit checking, geocoding, and reporting—saving you time and reducing submission errors.
Schedule Your Free Demo Have Questions? Contact Us
## Products & Services
- Comply HMDA/CRA/SBL
- Comply Fair Lending
- Comply Peer-2-Peer
- Comply DataMine
- Comply Mapping
- Comply SBL (1071)
- ComplyBI
- ZOOM Geocoder
- Geocoding
- FCC Form 477
- RATA Hosted Services
## Support
- RATA Support
- Video Training
- Live Training
- Contact Support
## News & Resources
- News
- Comply News
- Industry Articles
- Rate Spread Calculator
- HMDA and CRA Reporting
- Fair Lending Compliance
- Section 1071 (SBL)
- Mapping Services
- Links & Resources
## Company
- Founder & Mission
- History
- Organization
- Testimonials
- News & Updates
- Contact
## 407.831.RATA (7282)
1916 Boothe Cir Longwood, FL 32750
sales[at]rataassociates[dot]com
Copyright © 2026 RATA Associates LLC - All rights reserved. | Legal | Privacy | Site Map
Powered by ConceptSEO
- 𝕏