Your Credit Score

Understanding The Components Of Your Credit Score

Your credit is one of the most important components in your financial life.  A good credit score determines if you will be approved for a loan or line of credit.

The most widely used credit scoring system (FICO) was developed by Fair Isaac Corporation.  A FICO score can range from 300 to 850.  The higher the score, the better your credit profile.  Individuals with a higher score may benefit from lower insurance rates and  interest rates for loans.  The average consumer holds a credit score in the range of 600 to 750. 

A credit score is determined by 5 factors:
  1. Your Payment History
  2. Amounts Owed
  3. Length Of Credit History
  4. Types Of Credit Used
  5. New Credit 

What is not considered in a credit score:

  • Housing status - if you rent or own
  • Income
  • Length of time at your current job
  • Length of time at your current address
  • Previous denial of credit

Credit Score Breakdown