Glossary: Plain-English Metro 2® Concepts

    Short definitions to demystify common terms used in reporting.

    Updated 8/14/2025 · 1 min read

    Key terms

    As-of date: The cycle date the record's balances and statuses reflect.

    Tradeline: A reported account with attributes and monthly performance.

    DOFD: Date of first delinquency leading to charge-off/collection.

    Utilization: Balance divided by credit limit for revolving accounts.

    Segments & records

    Base segment: Core attributes for the reported account.

    Appendage segments: Optional context (J/K/L/N) applied when applicable.

    Header/Trailer: File-wide identification and balancing totals.