Esusu and Zillow partner to bring rent reporting to Zillow’s 228 million members

Zillow is expanding its rent reporting capabilities through a new partnership with Esusu, making it easier for millions of renters to build their credit history and improve financial readiness. Under the expansion, any renter—not just those paying rent through Zillow—can now have their on-time rent payments reported to all major credit bureaus for $20 per year, with the service launching in November through a simple verification process of lease details and payment method.

Zillow first launched free rent reporting in early 2024 for renters who pay through Zillow, helping more than 141,000 renters with on-time payment reporting. Esusu, the market leader in rent reporting, has seen an average positive credit score increase of 45 points for renters in its program, with participants unlocking over $30 billion in mortgages after participating in rent reporting. The partnership aims to reach millions more renters seeking to improve their credit standing and move closer to homeownership.

“Paying rent is often a renter’s biggest and most consistent monthly expense. It makes sense that this payment should help build their credit,” said Michael Sherman, senior vice president of Zillow Rentals. “By expanding rent reporting, we’re helping more renters build their credit history and take control of their financial future while reinforcing Zillow’s role as a trusted partner throughout their housing journey.”

The initiative addresses a significant gap in the credit system, as approximately 87% of renters don’t currently see their rent payments reflected in their credit reports—a barrier that can hold back those with limited or no credit history. The timing aligns with the Administration’s announcement earlier this year authorizing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to accept loans using VantageScore 4.0, which better incorporates rental payment history into the lending process.

“At Esusu, we believe everyone deserves credit for paying their rent on time. By including rent in the credit system, we’re helping to build economic mobility and unlock the American Dream for millions,” said Esusu Co-Founders and Co-CEOs Wemimo Abbey and Samir Goel. “We are proud to partner with Zillow to reimagine financial access and open the pathway to homeownership and generational wealth.”

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