Why Credit Limits Aren't Reported

[RozBuds]

Just curious why some CCs don't report the credit limit when reporting to the bureaus. What is the gain? Is it a power issue? Does it make much difference in the overall score? It seems a little unfair. Neimann Marcus does not report my credit limit just my balance if I have one. I remember Cap One was like that but they report now.

Thanks,

RozBuds

[Anonymous]

Some cards don't have credit limits as such. However, ALL cards AFAIK report a high balance. If no credit limit is reported, the high balance will be used as a pseudo limit in util calcs. Thus, for cards of this type, it can be advantageous to "flex" the high balance by running it up higher than normal one month to improve future util.

[RozBuds]

Actually my Neiman has a CL. I never checked as to what it was until I got a letter stating it was being lowered. I called and asked what the CL was now and she said $550. I asked what it had been and she said $2400. I said that will hurt my FICO and she said no it won't. We don't report credit limits. And I don't think it really has I just wonder why they don't report. Thank you for your reply. I will try to use it more. Maybe get it to $200 or $300.

[AndySoCal]

Is Nieman Marcas reporting what is called the high balance? That is the highest balance that the account has ever reached. If your high balance is less than your credit limit you can dipute it with bureau with the proof.

[smallfry]

It is not a good idea to ever dispute a positive tradeline. Ever.

[RozBuds]

The $78 reports as highest past balance. I'm just really curious of the advantage or disadvantage of the practice of not reporting credit limits and why.

Thank you, RozBuds