Credit scores typically vary between 300 and 850. In this case, when it comes to giving loans, various lenders have different standards. Thus, it’s important for you to know the factors that may impact your credit rating.
Are you uncertain whether your credit score is within a good or bad range? Don’t worry because I’ll discuss your credit score, and which I’ll base on the information in your credit reports. Read on this post to the very end to distinguish between a bad and good credit score. As well, you’ll learn a few tips on how you can transform a bad credit score into a good credit rating, which is vital to win various loan applications.
Defining a Good Credit Score
We get this question all the time, and the best way to address it is to start with the basics: What exactly is a credit score?
A credit score is a three-digit figure that ranges from 300 to 850 in general. Your credit score is based on information in your credit reports, such as your payment history, the amount of debt you owe, and the length of time you’ve had credit.
There are numerous credit scoring algorithms, and some incorporate data from other sources to calculate credit ratings. Potential creditors and lenders, such as banks, credit card companies, and auto dealerships, consider credit scores as one aspect in evaluating whether or not to provide your credit, such as a loan or credit card. It’s one of several 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. There is no “magic number” that would ensure better loan rates and conditions.
Is “Good” the Best Credit Score or Rating?
Credit scores between 580 and 669 are regarded as fair; 670 to 739 are viewed as good; 740 to 799 are rated very good; and 800 and higher are considered exceptional, depending on the credit scoring methodology. Higher credit scores indicate that you have a history of good credit activity, which may give prospective lenders and creditors greater confidence when reviewing a loan request.
Lenders consider consumers with credit scores of 670 and above to be acceptable or low-risk. Those with credit scores ranging from 580 to 669 are considered “subprime borrowers,” which means they may have a more challenging time qualifying for better loan arrangements. Those with lower scores – less than 580 – are considered to have “bad” credit and may have trouble obtaining credit or qualifying for improved loan conditions.
When it comes to giving credit, various lenders have different criteria, including information including your income or other considerations. As a result, the credit ratings they accept may differ based on those factors.
Credit scores may fluctuate because not all creditors and lenders report to all three leading credit agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). 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 based on the kind of loan and the preference of lenders for specific criteria.
Why Your Credit Score Moved from Good to Bad?
Here are some tried-and-true credit behaviors to remember when you start to create – or maintain – appropriate credit habits:
- Always pay your payments on time. This isn’t limited to credit cards. Besides, for late or missing payments on other accounts, such as mobile phones, lenders may report to credit agencies, affecting your credit score. If you’re experiencing problems paying a debt, get in touch with your lender right away. Even if you’re contesting a charge, don’t miss payments.
- Pay off your debts as soon as possible.
- Keep your credit card balance as low as possible. Your credit score may change if you have a more considerable debt than your credit limit.
- Apply for credit only when absolutely necessary. Applying for many credit accounts in a short period might have a negative influence on your credit score.
How to Maintain the Best Rating
Keep an eye on your credit reports frequently. Request a free copy of your credit report and review it to ensure that your personal information is correct and that no account information is incorrect or missing. By visiting www.annualcreditreport.com, you may get a free copy of your credit reports from each of the three major credit agencies every 12 months. You may keep track of your reports yearly by obtaining a copy from one every four months. It’s important to remember that reviewing your personal credit report or credit score has no impact on your credit ratings.
You may also sign up for a free Equifax credit report by creating a myEquifax account. In addition, you may enroll in Equifax Core CreditTM for a regular premium Equifax credit report and a monthly free VantageScore® 3.0 credit score based on Equifax data. You can do this by clicking “Get my free credit score” on your myEquifax dashboard. A VantageScore is one of several credit scores available.
Contact the lender or creditor if you see information that you feel is incorrect or incomplete. You may also dispute the report with the credit bureau that provided it. To register a dispute with Equifax, you must first establish a myEquifax account. Other means to file a disagreement may be found on our dispute page.