Credit Score Levels
We’ve written here often about credit scores and what various credit score levels say about you. Our infographic “What is a good credit score?” gives a breakdown of scores from 300 to 850 with this rough set of guidelines.
Credit Score Ranges
- 300-550: Poor credit
- 550-620: Subprime
- 620-680: Acceptable
- 680-740: Good credit
- 740-850: Excellent
When we originally created the graphic, only FICO™ scores used the 300-850 range, but since then VantageScores have adopted the same scoring range, so the graphic should give you some idea of your credit standing regardless of whether you’re looking at your FICO score or VantageScore.
Of course, not everyone agrees exactly about these ranges. Some experts won’t say you have “excellent” credit unless you’re at 760 or above. They might also expect your credit to be above 720 before they’d even call it “good.” While we say 680 is the threshold for good credit, the truth is it varies by lender. A 680 score should get your credit application approved, but obviously the higher your score, the better.
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To get more info about how scores are calculated, see our series of articles on credit score scale factors. This information can give you some idea of what is impacting your score and what you can do to most effectively improve your credit.
It’s hard to say where these credit score levels consistently cut off. Sometimes one credit score might be different from another; i.e., your TransUnion score might be 685 and your Equifax score might be 705. And that difference can be the thing that determines whether you get credit approval or not. That’s why we like the ability to shop around to different lenders who might check a different FICO credit score. VantageScores, on the other hand, are designed to be more consistent across the three bureaus, so you lose that potential advantage.
Whatever your current credit situation, we know every consumer wants it to be better. We’ve been helping people pay down their debts and attain financial freedom for 40 years now; we can help you too. Call us today for free, confidential advice from a certified counselor.
