It’s amazing how big an effect three little numbers can have on you, but make no mistake, your credit score is one of the more important numbers you’ll be associated with throughout your life. Your credit score can affect just about every major buying decision you make, from applying for credit cards, buying a car, even buying a home! Most lending institutions will examine your credit score and history to determine your lending eligibility.

Any time you request a loan or apply for a credit card, your credit score will be pulled. Lenders look at your credit score to determine whether you are a high or low risk lendee. If your score is high, you’ll be approved - if it’s low, then your loan will be rejected. The higher your credit score, the lower your interest rate should be as well.

So what is a credit score exactly and who or what determines what yours is? First off, credit scores are determined by the big three credit reporting bureaus, such as Equifax or TransUnion. That means you technically have three distinct credit scores, though all should be around the same number.

The credit bureaus determine your credit score by examining your credit report and history. There are many different things taken into consideration, such as the level of debt you’ve accumulated compared to your income. They also look at the credit limit you still have available, whether you make payments on time, if you’ve ever missed a payment and more.

Using this information and more, the agencies assign you a number that basically says how financially responsible and stable they think you are. Credit scores can be as high as 990, though it differs from agency to agency. Each agency has its own algorithm used to determine individual scores.

Whatever the highest score is, you want to get as close to that as possible. A credit score of 725 or higher will get you approved for a loan. It should also earn you low interest rates. What is considered a good credit score can change with the economic climate as well - the tougher the economy is, the tougher lenders will probably be on approving loans.

Your credit score can tell a lender or other inquirer a lot about you as a consumer. It lets them know whether you pay your debts on time, or whether you have any buying or credit history whatsoever. Even potential employers ask permission to pull your credit report and score to determine whether you’re eligible for employment.

Staying informed of your credit score and report is important given the major effects it can have on your life. There are plenty of free services to use, if you do your research and find the ones that are truly free. No matter what, you should pull your credit report and score at least once a year, to make sure there are no mistaken issues in it. This will ensure there are no surprises waiting when it’s time for you to get that new car or home.

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