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ABA: The American Bankers Association
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Guide to the Community Reinvestment Act

The Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) is a United States federal law designed to encourage financial institutions to meet the credit needs of communities in which they do business, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Banks that are unable to meet their obligations on CRA examinations can be penalized with significant reputational risks and even halted long-term growth, as acquisitions, mergers, and opening new branches can be prevented.