Your credit score is a three-digit number that is calculated to gauge your reliability as a borrower. It can be used to predict whether you'll pay back your loans or pay debts on time, and it also helps to determine whether you are generally a good risk for lenders.
Credit scores typically range from 300 to 850. Each of the three credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) calculates your score based on the information it has in your credit report.
Your credit score is determined by the information on your credit report. The formula is based on a number of factors, including:
If the data in your credit report is inaccurate, it will hurt your score. It’s important to generate your own full credit report at least once a year so you can identify any inaccuracies. If you are in the process of considering a major purchase (like a car or home) in the next several months, you should check your report more frequently just to be safe.
Additionally, any bankruptcies, collections, foreclosures or other financial defaults can negatively affect your credit score. Race, gender, marital status, nationality and religion are not factors in any credit scoring models.