Definition
A trade line is a traditional credit account that is reported to at least one major credit bureau.
Analysis
A trade line may be a store card, a major credit card or a revolving line of credit. Installment loans are also considered to be trade lines. Trade lines do not include alternative forms of credit, such as utility bills or rent, nor do they include public records such as bankruptcy, liens or judgments.
A seasoned trade line is an account that has been maintained for longer than 2 years. Trade lines will appear on a credit report while they are active, and they will also remain for a period of time afterwards. The duration of a trade line appearing on a credit report depends on how the credit account was maintained and on the disposition of the acccount.
