Comparison
Metro2 vs Credit Builders Alliance: Full Comparison
CBA Reporter is a managed service built exclusively for nonprofits, while Metro2 by Switch Labs is a self-service SaaS platform open to any data furnisher. CBA handles everything from data conversion to bureau submission on your behalf, which is ideal for nonprofits without technical staff — but it comes with annual commitments starting at $2,895/year and no direct control over your Metro 2 files. Metro2 gives you a modern web UI, REST API, real-time validation, and automated SFTP delivery starting at $19/month with no long-term contract.
Metro2
Modern, cloud-based Metro 2 reporting
Transparent pricing
No long-term contracts
Modern REST API
Free trial available
Credit Builders Alliance
Credit Builders Alliance is a national nonprofit organization that provides managed Metro 2 credit r...
Pricing:$2,895–$3,895+/year
Target:501(c)(3) nonprofit lenders, CDFIs, tribal entities, credit unions, and municipal lenders focused on serving low-to-moderate income borrowers
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Metro2 | Credit Builders Alliance |
|---|---|---|
Metro 2 Format Generation Generate compliant Metro 2 format files for credit bureau submission | CBA handles Metro 2 data conversion on behalf of members | |
All Three Bureaus Submit to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion | Reports to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion through established bureau partnerships | |
Real-time Validation Instant validation of data before submission | CRRG-aligned validation engine | CBA reviews data as part of managed service, but no self-service validation tool |
API Access REST API for programmatic integration | Full REST API from $29/mo | No API or programmatic integration — CBA is a managed service, not a software platform |
Bulk Upload Upload multiple accounts via CSV or Excel | Drag-and-drop field mapping | Organizations submit data in their own format; CBA handles conversion to Metro 2 |
Error Correction Built-in tools to fix rejected records | Live editor with bulk updates | CBA staff provide Metro 2 file troubleshooting and data quality review |
Audit Trail Complete history of all submissions and changes | No self-service audit trail or submission history portal | |
Modern UI Clean, intuitive user interface | No web-based UI or dashboard — managed service with email/phone-based support | |
No Long-term Contract Month-to-month billing without commitment | Cancel anytime | Annual membership commitment required at $2,895–$3,895+/year |
Transparent Pricing Clear pricing without hidden fees | Published on website | Pricing ranges published but exact costs require contacting CBA; additional bureau fees not included |
Automated Bureau Delivery Automated SFTP delivery to credit bureaus on a schedule | Included from SMB plan ($29/mo) | CBA manages regular transmission of data to bureaus on behalf of members |
Dedicated Support Direct access to support team | Ongoing technical assistance, FCRA compliance guidance, and eOscar dispute management included |
Credit Builders Alliance Pros
- Full-service managed offering — CBA handles Metro 2 data conversion, validation, and bureau submission on your behalf
- Established bureau relationships with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion with streamlined credentialing for members
- Includes eOscar dispute management, FCRA compliance guidance, and hands-on technical assistance
- Mission-aligned nonprofit supporting financial inclusion for underserved communities
- Free reporter-specific training courses for members through CBA Training Institute
Credit Builders Alliance Cons
- Restricted to 501(c)(3) nonprofits, tribal entities, credit unions, and municipal lenders — for-profit businesses and fintechs are not eligible
- Annual pricing starts at $2,895/year with no month-to-month option — significant commitment for smaller organizations
- Fully managed service with no self-service portal, API, or direct control over Metro 2 file generation
- Onboarding requires bureau credentialing process with site visits, which can take months to complete
- Credit report costs billed separately at $2–$9 per report on top of annual membership fees
When to Choose Credit Builders Alliance
- 1Nonprofit lenders and CDFIs that want a fully managed credit reporting service without building internal Metro 2 expertise
- 2Mission-driven organizations serving low-to-moderate income borrowers who need help with bureau credentialing
- 3Small nonprofit lenders reporting microenterprise, small business, or consumer loans who prefer hands-off bureau submission
Why Choose Metro2 Over Credit Builders Alliance
- Open to all data furnishers — no nonprofit status required
- Self-service platform with full control — generate, validate, and submit Metro 2 files yourself through a modern web UI or REST API
- 95% lower starting cost at $19/month vs. $2,895+/year, with month-to-month billing and no annual commitment
- Faster time-to-value with instant account setup and real-time validation instead of a months-long bureau credentialing process
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