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Home › Credit & Financial Health › Credit Scores

Credit Scores

Explore our credit scores guides, part of our Credit & Financial Health coverage. Independent, plain-English articles for US borrowers.

  • How Credit Scores Are Calculated in the US

    Credit scores weigh payment history, utilization, and more. Learn how FICO and VantageScore models calculate your score.

  • How to Check Your Credit Score for Free

    You can check your credit score and reports for free through several legitimate sources. Learn where and how often.

  • How Hard Inquiries Affect Your Credit Score

    Hard inquiries can temporarily lower your credit score. Learn the difference from soft inquiries and how to limit impact.

  • Credit Score Ranges Explained: What's Good?

    Credit score ranges from poor to exceptional determine your loan terms. See what each range means for rates and approval.

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