Credit Score

Credit Score

A credit score is a numerical measure of an individual’s creditworthiness. It is used by lenders to assess the risk of lending money to an individual.

1. Factors affecting credit score:

  • Payment History
  • Credit Utilization Ratio
  • Length of Credit History
  • Types of Credit
  • New Credit
  • Credit Inquiries

Payment History

Payment History

Timely payments and credits.

Credit Utilization Ratio

Credit Utilization Ratio

The amount of credit used relative to total available credit.

Length of Credit History

Length of Credit History

Time since accounts were opened, and time since most account activity was opened.

Types of Credit

Types of Credit

: such as credit cards, retail accounts, installment loans and more.

New Credit

New Credit

Opening multiple new credit accounts in a short period can be a red flag for lenders and may lower your score.

Credit Inquiries

Credit Inquiries

When you apply for credit, a hard inquiry is typically made on your credit report. Too many hard inquiries within a short period can negatively impact your score.

2. Importance of Credit Score

Lenders use credit scores to determine loan approvals, interest rates, and loan limits.

Homeowners and employers can also consider credit scores when making rental or employment decisions.

3. Ways to improve your credit score

Timely payment of bills.

Keeping credit card balances to a minimum.

Regularly reviewing and correcting credit reports for errors.

Avoid opening too many new accounts in a short period of time.

Understanding these points can help individuals manage their credit score more effectively and efficiently.