The truth is that we all start out with no credit score at all. Credit scores are based on the information in our major credit reports, and such reports aren't even created until we've had credit (e.g., a credit card or loan) in our names for at least six months.
Without an established history, your credit report and credit score don't magically appear when you turn 18, despite many common misconceptions. Once you have established credit, your first credit score could range anywhere from lower than 500 to well in the 700s, depending on your initial financial performance.
The base credit scores of the most popular credit-reporting models start at 300. Starting with a score of around 300 is possible only if you've managed your finances poorly. You may start to build a credit history or improve your score without using any type of credit.
The truth is that we all start out with no credit score at all. Credit scores are based on the information in our major credit reports, and such reports aren't even created until we've had credit (e.g., a credit card or loan) in our names for at least six months.
Adding a minor as an authorized user can help build the minor's credit. In some cases, card issuers report to the credit bureaus the payment histories of every individual who has a card in their name — cardmembers and authorized users alike.
Your score falls within the range of scores, from 580 to 669, considered Fair. A 600 FICO® Score is below the average credit score. Some lenders see consumers with scores in the Fair range as having unfavorable credit, and may decline their credit applications.
Checking your credit score and credit report at 17
Even if you're still too young to buy a cigar or lottery ticket, you are never too young to check your credit. While many minors will find they don't have a credit report or credit score established, those who do can check their credit just like an adult.
FICO credit scores, the industry standard for sizing up credit risk, range from 300 to a perfect 850—with 670 to 739 labeled “good,” 740-799 “very good” and 800 to 850 “exceptional.” A 700 score places you right in the middle of the good range, but still slightly below the average credit score of 711.
A 700 credit score meets the minimum requirements for most mortgage lenders, so it's possible to purchase a house when you're in that range. However, lenders look at more than just your credit score to determine your eligibility, so having a 700 credit score won't guarantee approval.
699 credit score mortgage loan options
A conventional mortgage usually requires a minimum credit score of 620. This means that with a score of 699, you have a high probability of being approved for a mortgage loan.
The best-known range of FICO scores is 300 to 850. Anything above 670 is generally considered to be good. FICO also offers industry-specific FICO scores, such as for credit cards or auto loans, which can range from 250 to 900.
What's the average credit score for an 18-19-year-old? The average credit score in the U.S. for those between 18 and 23 is 674.
According to credit bureau Experian, a good credit score is 700 or above. But if you're in your 20s and just starting out, a score of 700 or higher may be tough as you're just establishing your credit history.
What credit score do you need to buy a house? There is no legal minimum credit score required to qualify for an FHA home mortgage. However, most FHA loans generally require your FICO score to be at least 500-580. The specific numbers required are often considered jointly with the size of the down payment.
Having a credit score over 800 isn't just good. According to the FICO credit scoring system, it's exceptional. Although both the FICO and VantageScore credit scoring systems go all the way up to 850, you actually don't need to hit 850 to reap the same benefits as those with a perfect credit score.
Credit scores using the FICO® scoring model typically have a range of 300 to 850. For students—or anyone—a score of 700 or above is generally considered a good score. Your credit scores will depend on your credit history and how you've managed past debt.
According to new studies, there is a 91-point difference between the average scores of those in the oldest and youngest brackets of consumers. If your credit score falls above 720 points, it is considered to be excellent.
Your score falls within the range of scores, from 300 to 579, considered Very Poor. A 500 FICO® Score is significantly below the average credit score. Many lenders choose not to do business with borrowers whose scores fall in the Very Poor range, on grounds they have unfavorable credit.
For most loan types, the credit score needed to buy a house is at least 620. However, a higher score significantly improves your chances of approval, as borrowers with scores under 650 tend to make up just a small fraction of closed purchase loans.