Zillow launches CreditClimb to help renters build credit with every rent payment

Rhea-AI Summary

Zillow (NYSE: Z) launched CreditClimb on Nov 19, 2025, a nationwide tool powered by Esusu that reports on-time rent payments to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion for $20 a year. CreditClimb lets renters track scores and submit up to two years of past rent payments. The release cites that nearly 87% of renters lack rent reporting, renters using Esusu programs saw an average +45 point credit increase, and reported programs unlocked over $30 billion in mortgages. Zillow says it has helped 147,000 renters with rent reporting since early 2024.

Positive

• $20/yr rent-reporting price for nationwide access
• Reports to all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion)
• Average +45 credit score increase reported for Esusu users
• 147,000 renters helped since early 2024

Negative

• $20/yr fee may deter price-sensitive renters
• Retro reporting limited to up to two years of past payments

Insights

Consumer credit product analyst

Zillow's CreditClimb lets renters report on-time rent to credit bureaus for $20 a year, expanding credit access nationwide.

How it works: Zillow and Esusu report on-time rent payments to Equifax, Experian and TransUnion so those payments show on credit files. Enrollment is self-serve and allows adding up to two years of past rent payments. The program price is $20 per year and enrollment opened on Nov. 19, 2025.

Dependencies and cautious risks: The benefit depends strictly on accurate, consistent reporting and consumer enrollment. The release cites that nearly 87% of renters lack rent on their reports and that users of Esusu-powered programs saw an average credit increase of 45 points, unlocking over $30 billion in mortgages; these figures support potential impact but rely on sustained, correct reporting and user participation.

Concrete items to watch: monitor reported uptake versus the 147,000 users previously helped through Zillow's free rent reporting, continued accuracy of bureau reporting, and any changes to pricing or bureau acceptance in the months after launch; short-term signals should appear within the first few quarters after Nov. 19, 2025.

The new Esusu-powered tool turns on-time rent payments into lasting credit progress

SEATTLE, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Zillow® is giving renters a new way to turn their largest monthly expense into real financial progress with CreditClimb, an affordable and straightforward credit-building tool powered by Esusu.

Starting today, renters nationwide can enroll directly through Zillow to have their on-time rent payments automatically reported to all three major credit bureaus for $20 a year. CreditClimb also lets renters track their credit score and add up to two years of past rent payments to their report, helping them build credit faster.

Nearly 87% of renters don't see their rent payments reflected in their credit reports, a gap that can make it harder to qualify for loans, secure affordable financing or eventually buy a home. Renters using Esusu-powered programs have seen an average credit score increase of 45 points after consistent on-time reporting, collectively unlocking more than $30 billion in mortgages after reporting their rent payments.

"Renters have more options when they have paths to establish and strengthen their credit," said Michael Sherman, senior vice president of Zillow Rentals. "That can mean qualifying for better financing, securing their next rental or moving confidently toward homeownership. With CreditClimb, renters can use the rental payments they already make to build credit and strengthen their financial future."

Through Esusu's technology, CreditClimb securely reports payments to Equifax, Experian and TransUnion, ensuring that on-time payments contribute positively to renters' credit profiles. Enrollment for CreditClimb is open now. Renters simply verify their lease details and payment method, and Zillow and Esusu handle the rest.

"Esusu is honored to support CreditClimb and expand new credit-building opportunities for Zillow users across the country. Credit is more than a number on a page. It is a gateway to dignity, stability, and a chance to pursue the American Dream," said Samir Goel and Wemimo Abbey, co-founders and co-CEOs of Esusu. "By joining forces, Esusu and Zillow are helping millions of renters step into a future where their hard work is recognized, their aspirations are supported, and their dreams are finally within reach."

Since launching free rent reporting for users paying rent on Zillow in early 2024, Zillow has helped more than 147,000 renters turn on-time payments into credit progress. CreditClimb expands that access to every renter in the U.S., reinforcing Zillow's commitment to helping people not just find a home, but also build lasting stability.

More information about Zillow's rent reporting options is available at zillow.com/rent/rent-reporting.

About Zillow Group

Zillow Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: Z and ZG) is reimagining real estate to make home a reality for more people. As the most visited real estate app and website in the United States, Zillow and its affiliates help people find and get the home they want by connecting them with digital solutions, dedicated real estate professionals and easier buying, selling, financing and renting experiences.

Zillow Group's affiliates and brands include Zillow, Zillow Home Loans, Zillow Rentals, Trulia, Out East, StreetEasy, HotPads, ShowingTime+, Spruce and Follow Up Boss.

About Esusu

Esusu is the leading financial technology platform that leverages data solutions to empower residents and improve property performance. Esusu's rent reporting platform captures rental payment data and reports it to credit bureaus to boost credit scores. Founded in 2018, Esusu reaches over 5 million rental units and 12 million renters across all 50 states in the United States.  Learn more at esusurent.com.

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SOURCE Zillow

FAQ

What is Zillow CreditClimb launched Nov 19, 2025 (Z)?

CreditClimb is a Zillow-Esusu tool that reports on-time rent payments to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion for $20 per year.

How much does CreditClimb cost for renters (Z)?

Enrollment costs $20 a year to have on-time rent payments reported to all three major credit bureaus.

Can CreditClimb add previous rent payments to my credit report (Z)?

Yes; CreditClimb lets renters add up to two years of past rent payments to their credit history.

What credit improvement has been seen from Esusu rent reporting programs?

Users of Esusu-powered programs have seen an average 45-point increase in credit scores after consistent on-time reporting.

How many renters has Zillow helped with rent reporting since 2024 (Z)?

Zillow helped more than 147,000 renters convert on-time rent payments into credit progress since early 2024.

Will CreditClimb reporting be accepted by mortgage lenders (Z)?

CreditClimb reports to the three major bureaus so on-time rent payments can contribute to credit profiles lenders review.