Explained — Credit Scores

: Your record of making on-time payments. This is the most influential factor.

: Having a variety of account types, such as credit cards and installment loans (car loans or mortgages), can improve your score. credit scores explained

: Opening too many new accounts in a short period can be seen as a "red flag" by lenders. 2. Credit Score Ranges : Your record of making on-time payments

: Also known as credit utilization . It compares how much you owe to your total available credit limit. Lower percentages (ideally under 30%) are better. : Opening too many new accounts in a

Higher scores suggest you are a lower risk to lenders, often leading to better interest rates and loan terms. While ranges vary by model, a general breakdown includes: : Exceptional 740–799 : Very Good 670–739 : Good 580–669 : Fair 300–579 : Poor 3. The Three Major Bureaus A guide to understanding your credit score