Which characteristic is protected under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act?

The correct choice is that race is a characteristic protected under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA). The ECOA is a federal law designed to ensure that all individuals have equal access to credit, regardless of specific personal characteristics that could lead to discrimination in lending practices.

The act prohibits lenders from discriminating against applicants based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, or because an applicant receives public assistance. This legal framework is crucial in promoting fairness and equality in lending, allowing individuals from all backgrounds the opportunity to obtain credit without bias.

In contrast, while employment status might affect a credit application, it is not specifically listed as a protected characteristic under this law. Criminal records and political affiliations are also not included in the ECOA's list of attributes that lenders cannot discriminate against when making lending decisions.