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Credit score

A three-digit number lenders use to estimate how likely you are to repay a loan.

Why it matters

FICO and VantageScore both range from 300 to 850. Payment history and credit utilization drive most of the score. Scores above ~740 typically qualify for the best rates on mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards.

Learn deeper

PF101 — Credit scores and FICO

See also

  • Credit utilization
  • Hard inquiry
  • Credit report

Educational only — not financial, tax, or legal advice.

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