Credit scores run from 300 to 850. A score of 670 or higher is "good" on the FICO scale, but what matters most is what a lender will do with your score. Enter yours above to see where it lands.
FICO score ranges
| Range | Score | What it usually means |
|---|---|---|
| Poor | 300 to 579 | Many lenders will decline or require a deposit |
| Fair | 580 to 669 | Approval is possible, often at higher rates |
| Good | 670 to 739 | Most lenders will consider you |
| Very good | 740 to 799 | Better-than-average rates |
| Exceptional | 800 to 850 | Usually the best rates offered |
Credit score needed to buy a house
| Loan type | Typical minimum score |
|---|---|
| Conventional | Most lenders look for 620 |
| FHA, 3.5% down | 580 under FHA rules |
| FHA, 10% down | 500 under FHA rules |
| VA | No VA-set minimum; many lenders look for 620 |
| USDA | No USDA-set minimum; lenders typically look for 640 |
These are the floors lenders commonly use. Many set higher minimums of their own, and your down payment, income and debts all count too. A higher score usually means a lower rate, which can save a lot over the life of a mortgage.
Credit score for a car loan
Auto lenders group borrowers into tiers. Experian uses these:
| Tier | Score |
|---|---|
| Super prime | 781 to 850 |
| Prime | 661 to 780 |
| Near prime | 601 to 660 |
| Subprime | 501 to 600 |
| Deep subprime | 300 to 500 |
Why do I have more than one score?
There are several scoring models (FICO and VantageScore, in different versions) and three credit bureaus, each with slightly different information. Mortgage lenders often use older FICO versions, while many free apps show VantageScore. It's normal for your scores to differ by a few dozen points.
How to raise a fair or poor score
- Check all three credit reports for errors and dispute anything inaccurate. It's free.
- Pay every bill on time. Payment history is the biggest factor in most scores.
- Keep credit card balances low compared with your limits.
- If you have little or no credit history, a secured card or a credit builder account can help you start one.