Know how your FICO Score is determined
FICO measures credit-worthiness. Underwriters use three credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion, to determine your score in the following ways:
1. Delinquencies lower scores, and scores drop when several credit accounts are opened in a short period.
2. A long credit history is better than a new one, and too few revolving accounts makes it harder to evaluate the ability to manage credit.
3. Consumers with “maxed out” cards may have trouble making payments. Too many revolving accounts indicate over-extension.
4. Tax liens, bankruptcies, and use of consumer credit agencies can all lower a FICO score.
5. Small credit card balances and no late payments show responsibility.