Navigating Credit Bureau Data: Field Notes for Researchers

Abstract

This guide instructs researchers on effectively utilizing credit bureau data for academic research. It outlines the potential research applications of credit bureau data, such as examining household debt, financial health, credit supply, and the effects of personal debt on economic activity. The guide also addresses the strengths and limitations of this data, the process of acquiring it from vendors, and best practices for merging it with other data sources.

Keywords: Credit Bureau Data, Household Debt, Household Credit Supply