What is CRA?
The Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) is a federal law enacted in 1977 to encourage depository institutions to help meet the credit needs of the communities in which they operate, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. The CRA requires federal banking regulators to assess how well each bank and thrift institution fulfills its obligations to these communities.
CRA examinations evaluate three main areas:
- Lending Test: Assessment of a bank's record of helping to meet the credit needs of its assessment areas, particularly low- and moderate-income geographies and individuals
- Investment Test: Evaluation of a bank's record of investing in community development projects and activities that benefit low- and moderate-income areas
- Service Test: Review of a bank's record of providing retail banking services to low- and moderate-income individuals and communities
Why CRA Compliance Matters
CRA compliance is not just a regulatory requirement—it's an opportunity to demonstrate your institution's commitment to community development and responsible banking practices. Strong CRA performance can:
- Enhance your institution's reputation in the community
- Support business development and growth opportunities
- Improve relationships with regulators and examiners
- Create positive social impact in underserved communities
- Provide competitive advantages in merger and acquisition activities
Our CRA Services
CRA Program Development
We help institutions develop comprehensive CRA programs that align with their business strategies and community needs. Our services include:
- Assessment area delineation and mapping
- CRA policy development and implementation
- Community development lending program design
- Investment and service delivery strategies
CRA Examination Preparation
Prepare for CRA examinations with confidence through our comprehensive preparation services:
- Pre-examination data review and analysis
- Documentation preparation and organization
- Mock examination simulations
- Management and staff training programs
Ongoing CRA Monitoring and Support
Maintain strong CRA performance year-round with our ongoing support services:
- Quarterly CRA performance monitoring
- Data quality assurance and validation
- Community development opportunity identification
- Regulatory update and compliance guidance
Community Development Consulting
Strengthen your community development activities with our specialized consulting services:
- Affordable housing project development
- Small business lending program enhancement
- Community development financial institution partnerships
- Economic development initiative support
Our Approach
At Creekstone Capital, we take a strategic and comprehensive approach to CRA consulting. We understand that every institution is unique, with different market conditions, business models, and community needs. Our approach includes:
- Customized Solutions: Tailored strategies that align with your institution's specific circumstances and goals
- Data-Driven Analysis: Comprehensive analysis of lending, investment, and service data to identify opportunities and risks
- Regulatory Expertise: Deep understanding of CRA regulations and examination procedures across all federal banking agencies
- Community Focus: Emphasis on creating genuine community impact while meeting regulatory requirements
- Long-term Partnership: Ongoing support to help maintain strong CRA performance over time
Industry Experience
Our team brings extensive experience in banking, community development, and regulatory compliance. We have worked with institutions of all sizes, from community banks to large regional institutions, helping them achieve and maintain strong CRA ratings.
Our experience spans:
- Traditional commercial banks and thrifts
- Credit unions and community development financial institutions
- Specialty lenders and non-bank financial institutions
- Institutions undergoing mergers, acquisitions, or regulatory actions
