| Credit rating scores are numbers produced by a | | | | include absence of credit references, late payments, |
| mathematical formula according to the information | | | | and unfavorable credit card use. |
| contained in your credit report. This information is | | | | Usually, credit rating score is a three digit number |
| processed through special software and a score is | | | | ranging between 375 and 900. The median score in |
| arrived at. The score is used by financial institutions for | | | | the United States is about 720. Higher scores mean |
| evaluating an individual's possible ability to pay back a | | | | more financing options and better interest rates. |
| debt. | | | | Scores below certain numbers result in the rejection of |
| Credit rating scores vary at different times depending | | | | credit. When you apply for a mortgage, home equity |
| on the changes or additions in your credit history. | | | | loan, car loan, line of credit, or business loan, the |
| Every credit rating score is accompanied by a | | | | financial institutions first check your credit rating scores |
| maximum of four reason codes. Reason codes | | | | from the credit bureaus. |
| indicate the reason why a consumer did not score | | | | Credit rating scores significantly affect your ability to |
| high. There are various credit rating systems. Fair Isaac | | | | get credit. Borrowers now use the scores as a part of |
| Credit Rating Score (FICO) is the most widely used | | | | their general financial promotion strategy. Some |
| system of credit scoring in the United States. | | | | insurance companies use your credit rating score to |
| The scores depend on several factors including | | | | set your premium rates and some prospective |
| payment history, amounts owed, length of credit | | | | employers use this to estimate your sense of |
| history, pattern of credit use, and types of credit in use. | | | | responsibility. |
| Factors that can damage your credit rating score | | | | |