Credit scores are basically a way to prove to others how responsible you are. Having a good score allows you to rent property, get a loan, or even be hired for a job.
They’re going to affect many aspects of your life, therefore knowing how they work is very important.
The Range
Typically, scores range from 250-900.
- If your score is under 580, you should be focused on improving it.
- If your score is over 670, you’re doing ok but higher is better.
- If it’s over 740, you’re doing great.
There are Three Scores
There are three credit bureaus – basically, three companies keep track of your score. They are TransUnion, Equifax and Experian. Your score may be different at each of them, and therefore someone pulling your credit may find something different than what you’ve seen, however unless there’s an error (which you can dispute), there isn’t anything you can do about it. They’re all based on your credit history.
How to Improve Your Credit Score
- Get access to credit if you don’t currently have any. You can do this with a credit card or small personal line of credit.
- Use less than 30% of the debt you have access to. If you have a credit card with a $10,000 limit, try not to use more than $3,000 at any time.
- Pay your bills and debt on time.
- Cut down your debt.
- Only spend what you make.
- Pay your rent on time.
- Avoid too many credit checks.
- Negotiate the payment on your overdue bills so you can make sure to pay them every month.
- Don’t breach contracts (like for your gym, rental, etc.).
- Don’t sporadically close credit cards.
Check Your FICO Score Today, For Free
As an added benefit of WECU membership, you can securely view your FICO score within Online Banking. Not using Online Banking yet? Enroll via the login button at the top of your screen today.
