What must be reviewed to determine a borrower's eligibility for USDA financing?

The correct choice focuses on the tri-merged credit report, which is essential for assessing a borrower's creditworthiness and eligibility for USDA financing. A tri-merged credit report combines the credit histories from the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—providing a comprehensive view of a borrower's credit profile. This thorough review helps lenders evaluate risk, ensuring that borrowers meet the specific credit standards set by the USDA.

In the context of USDA loans, having a tri-merged credit report is particularly significant because it not only shows the credit score but also highlights any negative marks such as late payments or defaults, as well as the overall credit utilization. This complete picture allows lenders to make informed decisions regarding loan approvals or terms.

While other elements like bank statements and employment history are indeed important in the overall assessment of a borrower's financial stability and ability to repay, they do not specifically address the credit criteria required by the USDA program. The single credit report option lacks the depth and comprehensiveness that the tri-merged version provides, making it less suitable for determining eligibility in this context.