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Few numbers are more important to an individual's financial well being, than the FICO score. FICO was developed by Fair Isaac Corp. and is basically a three-digit number that represents an individual's credit-worthiness. The score is based on a person's credit history and is used widely by lenders in the U.S. to evaluate credit risk. FICO credit scores ranges from 300 to 850, with 720 considered the median score. Generally, FICO scores of above 720 are considered "Good" or "Excellent" while scores below 600 are considered "Poor".

An individual's FICO score can determine his or her eligibility to secure a home loan, an automobile loan or a consumer loan. It also directly affects the interest rates associated with such financing. Typically, the lower the score, the harder it becomes to get a loan, and the higher the interest rates become. For instance, it is not unusual for people with FICO scores of less than 650, to pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars more on interest rates annually, than a person with a score of 750 would pay for the same loan amount.

FICO scores are calculated using a fairly complex mathematical algorithm that combines data from various sources. One of the most important factors affecting an individual's FICO score is the punctuality with which payments are made. Late or missed payments can negatively impact FICO scores in a substantial manner while a history of prompt payments can boost it significantly. Another key factor is the ratio of debt, to the total amount of available credit. Generally speaking, the closer that an individual gets to maxing out his or her credit, the higher than likelihood that FICO scores will get negatively affected.

Other important influencers of the FICO score include the length of an individual's payment history, the number of open accounts, and the number of credit inquiries and credit checks. In most cases, individuals need to have at least one credit account open and active for at least six months before a FICO score is calculated. In many cases though lenders require borrowers to have at least one year's worth of credit history in order to extend loans.

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Is your beacon score and FICA score the same?

A beacon score is just the name given to the equifax branded FICO score. So your FICO score and beacon score will be the same if your FICO score is pulled using your equifax credit report.


How can a FICO credit score be obtained?

A FICO score is obtained with information taken from a person's available credit information. The score is sold by the FICO Company to interested financial institutions.


What percent of borrowers have a FICO score greater than 740?

Approximately 20% of borrowers have a FICO score greater than 740.


What is the highest possible FICO score?

900 Sorry, 900 is not it Highest FICO score is 850 http://www.myfico.com.


Can you qualify for a mortgage with a fico score of 567?

It is hard to qualify for a mortgage with a Fico score of 567. Most lenders, including FHA, require individuals to have a minimum Fico score of 580 to qualify for a mortgage.


Where can one get their FICO score?

The best place to go on the internet for information regarding their FICO score is the website called myFICO. The site provides everything one would need to know about their FICO score.


Can a stranger find your Fico score?

the only way to get your FICO score if to access your credit report if they can get your report they can get your score. check out www.thecreditguy.tv for more information


What is range of FICO scores?

The FICO score ranges between 300 - 850.


How can I obtain my FICO score?

You can obtain your FICO score by requesting it from one of the three major credit bureaus - Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. You can also check your FICO score through various online services and financial institutions.