Which score is closest to FICO?

Asked by: Madaline Lemke IV  |  Last update: May 28, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (67 votes)

VantageScore. The VantageScore model—specifically Version 3.0 which is the most widely used—considers similar factors to the FICO score model.

Is TransUnion or Equifax closer to FICO?

Lenders typically use your FICO® Score to gauge your creditworthiness. Compared to TransUnion's algorithm, Equifax's algorithm more closely resembles the FICO® model. Therefore, your Equifax score may better predict whether you'll qualify for a loan. Your Equifax score won't be a tell-all, though.

Which FICO score is most accurate?

FICO® and VantageScore® are the two most popular credit scoring models today. FICO and VantageScore credit scores are equally reliable and accurate, based on the specific scoring model that's being used. Tools are available that allow you to check and monitor your credit score for free, with no impact to your credit.

What is the near average FICO score?

The average credit score in the US is 717, according to a report from FICO. High interest rates and lingering inflation contribute to more missed payments and debt levels. Minnesota has the highest average credit score at 742, while Mississippi has the lowest average at 680.

How close is your FICO score to your actual credit score?

Basically, "credit score" and "FICO score" are all referring to the same thing. A FICO score is a type of credit scoring model. While different reporting agencies may weigh factors slightly differently, they are all essentially measuring the same thing.

You Have The Wrong Credit Score! | FICO vs. Vantage Explained

38 related questions found

How close is credit karma to your FICO score?

Credit Karma's credit scores are VantageScores, a competitor to the more widely used FICO scores. Those scores are based on the information in your credit reports from Equifax and TransUnion, two of the three major credit bureaus. Your Credit Karma score should be relatively close to your FICO score.

Does Amex use FICO 8?

Credit score calculated based on the FICO® Score 8 model and is provided for educational purposes. American Express and other lenders may use a different FICO® Score version than FICO® Score 8, or another type of credit score altogether, and other information to make credit decisions.

What is the riskiest FICO score?

Credit score ranges—what are they?
  • 800 to 850: Excellent Credit Score. Individuals in this range are considered to be low-risk borrowers. ...
  • 740 to 799: Very Good Credit Score. ...
  • 670 to 739: Good Credit Score. ...
  • 580 to 669: Fair Credit Score. ...
  • 300 to 579: Poor Credit Score.

How rare is an 800 credit score?

Even better, just over 1 in 5 people (21.2%) have an exceptional FICO credit score of 800 or above, all but guaranteeing access to the best products and interest rates.

How rare is an 820 credit score?

Your score falls in the range of scores, from 800 to 850, that is considered Exceptional. Your FICO® Score and is well above the average credit score. Consumers with scores in this range may expect easy approvals when applying for new credit. 21% of all consumers have FICO® Scores in the Exceptional range.

Which FICO do most lenders use?

For other types of credit, such as personal loans, student loans and retail credit, you'll likely want to know your FICO® Score 8, which is the score most widely used by lenders.

Why is my FICO score 100 points lower than credit karma?

Your FICO Score is a credit score. But if your FICO score is different from another of your credit scores, it may be that the score you're viewing was calculated using one of the other scoring models that exist.

Is Experian or FICO more reliable?

With multiple options available, you may be wondering which of these sources is the most accurate. Simply put, there is no “more accurate” score when it comes down to receiving your score from the major credit bureaus.

Why is my FICO score so different from TransUnion?

Credit scoring models can weigh certain information in your reports more heavily than other credit score factors. For example, one scoring model may put more emphasis on total credit usage than others. Because there are varied scoring models, you'll likely have different scores from different providers.

Which credit bureau gives the highest score?

Of the three main credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion), no particular bureau is considered better than another. A lender may rely on a report from one bureau or all three bureaus when deciding whether to approve a loan.

Is the Bank of America FICO score accurate?

The FICO® Score Online Banking provides is a FICO® Score 8 based on TransUnion Data. The score is from your TransUnion credit report and calculated on the "as of" date included with your score. Your FICO® Score may differ from scores provided elsewhere, if the other score: Was a different FICO® Score version.

Does anyone have a 900 credit score?

While older models of credit scores used to go as high as 900, you can no longer achieve a 900 credit score. The highest score you can receive today is 850. Anything above 800 is considered an excellent credit score.

What is the average American's credit score?

The average credit score in the United States is 705, based on VantageScore® data from March 2024. It's a myth that you only have one credit score. In fact, you have many credit scores, because there are many different types of credit scores and scoring models.

What US city has the worst credit rating?

South Burlington, Vt., is the city with the highest credit score, while Detroit is the city with the lowest, according to personal finance site WalletHub.

What is a good credit score to buy a car?

Key Takeaways. Your credit score is a major factor in whether you'll be approved for a car loan. Some lenders use specialized credit scores, such as a FICO Auto Score. In general, you'll need at least prime credit, meaning a credit score of 661 or up, to get a loan at a good interest rate.

What is a super-prime credit score?

Subprime (credit scores of 580-619) Near-prime (credit scores of 620-659) Prime (credit scores of 660-719) Super-prime (credit scores of 720 or above)

What are the 5 C's of credit?

Each lender has its own method for analyzing a borrower's creditworthiness. Most lenders use the five Cs—character, capacity, capital, collateral, and conditions—when analyzing individual or business credit applications.

Who still uses FICO 8?

FICO® Score 8 is one of the most widely used FICO® Credit Scores and there's a good chance that your lender may use it too. For example, if you're trying to get a new credit card, personal loan, student loan, or retail credit, your FICO® Score 8 may be important.

Does Apple use FICO 8?

Apple Card uses FICO Score 9. FICO Score 9 ranges from 300 to 850, with scores above 660 considered favorable for credit approval.

What FICO score do car dealers use?

Your FICO score is a representation of your credit worthiness. FICO offers specific products and solutions for car dealers and auto loans. Their product is called Auto Score 8. As you can see here from FICO's promotional materials, Auto Score 8 is meant to help dealers, “Improve accuracy and speed of decision making.