Which of the following factors is prohibited from being considered under ECOA when extending credit?

Marital status is prohibited from being considered under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) when extending credit. The ECOA aims to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and equitably, regardless of personal characteristics that do not relate to their creditworthiness. This law is designed to prevent discrimination against individuals based on protected categories, which include marital status.

In the context of credit extension, marital status does not provide relevant information regarding the applicant's ability to repay a loan or manage credit effectively. Instead, lenders should focus on factors that directly reflect the applicant's financial stability and creditworthiness, such as income level, credit history, and employment status. These factors are relevant because they provide insight into the applicant's financial situation, making them pertinent for credit assessment. Conversely, marital status can lead to potential discrimination, as it does not correlate with an individual's financial capability.