What is considered a good credit score? That is open to interpretation and discussion and depends somewhat on what you require from your credit score. There are different levels of “good”. We took a look at what is involved.
A credit score is a three-digit figure that ranges from 300 to 850 in general. Bureaus base your credit score on information in your credit report. Factors include your payment history, the amount of debt you owe, and the length of time you’ve had credit.
There are numerous different credit scoring algorithms, and some of them use data from other sources to calculate credit ratings. Potential lenders and creditors, such as banks, credit card companies, and car dealerships, consider credit scores as one aspect in evaluating whether or not to provide you credit, Credit such as a loan or credit card. It’s one of many factors they use to estimate how likely you are to repay money you’ve borrowed.
It’s vital to note that everyone’s financial and credit status is unique, and there is no “magic number” that would ensure better loan rates and terms. Lenders consider credit scores between 580 and 669 as fair. They rate 670 to 739 as good. They would say 740 to 799 is very good. Finally, they tend to agree that 800 and higher is exceptional. These are general ratings, depending on the credit scoring methodology. Higher credit scores indicate that you have a history of good credit activity. This may give potential lenders and creditors more confidence when reviewing a credit request.
Lenders consider consumers with credit scores of 670 and higher to be acceptable or low-risk. Those with credit scores ranging from 580 to 669 are in a grey area. Lenders consider them “subprime borrowers,” which means they may have a harder time qualifying for better loan arrangements. They consider those with lower scores – less than 580 – as possessing “bad” credit. Such people may have trouble obtaining credit or qualifying for improved loan terms.
When it comes to giving credit, different lenders have different criteria. These criteria often include may include information such as your income or other considerations. As a result, the credit ratings they accept may differ based on those factors.
Because not all creditors and lenders report to all three main credit agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion), credit scores may differ. Many creditors report to all three, but you can have a creditor who only reports to one, two, or none at all. Furthermore, there are a variety of scoring models accessible, and those scoring models may alter depending on the type of loan and the preference of lenders for specific criteria.
Here are some tried-and-true habits to remember as you start to develop responsible credit habits:
Keep an eye on your credit reports on a frequent basis. Request a free copy of your credit report and review it to ensure that your personal information is right and that no account information is incorrect or incomplete. By visiting www.annualcreditreport.com, you may get a free copy of your credit reports from each of the three nationwide credit bureaus every 12 months. You may keep track of your reports all year long by requesting a copy from one every four months. It’s important to remember that reviewing your own credit report or credit score has no bearing on your credit ratings.