Lenders use your credit score to determine how likely you are to repay a loan or credit card. Generally speaking, the higher your credit score, the more likely they are that you should pay back your debts on time. So if your credit score has dropped, it’s important to understand why. Actions that can cause …
How To Improve Your Credit Score With No Credit History
A credit score is a three-digit number that measures how responsible you are in managing your money and paying down your debt. These scores are generated from information contained in your credit report, so you must have a credit history before you can get a credit score. Can you improve your credit score if you …
Understanding the Five Cs of Credit
Financial institutions attempt to reduce the credit risk of borrowers by performing credit analyses on individuals and businesses applying for new credit accounts or loans. This review process is based on a review of five key factors that predict the likelihood that a borrower will default. They are known as the five Cs of credit …
FICO Score vs. Other Credit Scores
A credit score is a three-digit measure of your ability to manage your finances. A FICO score is one of several different types of credit scores that lenders use to measure a borrower’s risk. Understanding the difference between a credit score and a FICO score can help you improve your score, which can help you …
Credit Rating vs. Credit Score: What’s the Difference?
Credit Rating vs Credit Scoring: An Overview A credit score is a three-digit number that tells lenders whether an individual is a responsible borrower. Credit ratings, on the other hand, are letter ratings given to companies or governments that investors use to determine their risk exposure. Learn the similarities and differences between credit scores and …
Average Credit Scores by Generation
As you age, your credit score improves. A study of average credit scores across generations showed that every major demographic group has a higher average credit score than the previous generation. Analysis by credit ratings agency Experian shows a slow but steady upward trend in scores from the youngest Generation Z consumers to Millennials, Generation …
How FICO Scores Are Calculated
If you have a credit history, you have a FICO score. But how is it calculated? The Fair Isaac Corporation has perpetuated the mystery of its FICO score by never releasing the details of its calculation formula. Even if it were known, the details of its calculation method could still change at its discretion. How …
Average Credit Scores by Race
Research on average credit scores shows significant differences across racial and ethnic groups. This article explores these differences and their possible causes. Key takeaways Credit scores do not take into account age, race, income or residence. However, other factors used to calculate credit scores may disproportionately affect certain racial groups. For example, credit scores generally …
Average Credit Scores by Gender
Most people are probably aware of the income gap between men and women, a phenomenon that has generated widespread debate and research. But is there a gap between men and women when it comes to loans and credit scores? This is a difficult topic to pin down, thanks to changes to regulations under the Equal …
Experts Weigh In: Your Biggest Debt Management Questions Answered
From credit card bills to medical expenses, debt is a common reality. It’s also a source of stress for many Americans. However, debt settlement is often more manageable than you think, and expert advice can make a big difference. To help you manage your finances, we asked two financial experts to share their insights on …