Knowing your credit score is the first step to controlling your finances. But do you know how to check your credit score?
Whether planning ahead or simply curious about your credit standing, continue reading to learn how to get your credit score using today’s available tools.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Many credit card issuers, like Discover and Chase, offer free credit scores via their platforms.
- You can purchase your credit score and report directly from Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion.
- Nonprofit agencies may help you access your credit score during consultations.
Where Can I Get My Credit Score?
First, talk about where you can’t get your credit score. You may have heard that Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) entitles you to a free credit report every 12 months through AnnualCreditReport.com. However, this report does not include your credit score.
Don’t fret — there are other ways to get your credit score, many of which are free. Let’s take a look.
Check Your Credit Card Account
If you have a credit card, chances are you can access your credit score for free. Many major credit card issuers, such as Discover, Capital One, Chase, and American Express, provide this feature directly through their platforms or mobile apps.
Simply log in to your account or app and look for a section labeled “Credit Score,” “FICO Score,” or “Credit Monitoring.” Your credit score may be displayed alongside helpful insights into what’s impacting it, like payment history and credit utilization.
Similarly, many banks and credit unions also benefit you with your credit score.
Note: The score you receive from your credit card company or bank is typically a FICO Score or VantageScore calculated using data from one of the three major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, or Equifax).
Talk to a Nonprofit Counselor
Nonprofit credit counseling agencies often provide free or low-cost services to help you manage your debt and improve your credit.
- Look for agencies approved by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC).
- Schedule a free consultation where they review your financial situation, including your credit report.
- During the session, ask if they can help you access your score.
Note: While nonprofit credit counseling agencies often provide free or low-cost services to help you repair your credit, they may not provide your credit score.
Purchase Credit Scores from Credit Bureaus
If you want to go straight to the source, you can purchase your credit score directly from one of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
- Go to the official website of the bureau you want to use.
- Create an account by providing basic information like your name, address, and Social Security number. If you already have an account, just log in.
- Select between a one-time credit report or a subscription plan.
- Complete the payment and download your report.
What Is Considered a Good or a Bad Credit Score?
The table below shows FICO Score ranges, which lenders often use to understand your reliability in managing money and credit.
| Credit Score Range | Category | What It Means |
| 800-850 | Excellent | Access to the best interest rates and premium perks. |
| 740-799 | Very Good | Favorable rates and terms from most lenders. |
| 670-739 | Good | Possibly eligible for credit, but rates may be slightly higher. |
| 580-669 | Fair | Limited credit options and higher interest rates are likely. |
| 300-579 | Poor | Tough to get approvals; lenders see high risks. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about checking your credit score.
How Can I Check My Real Credit Score for Free?
You can typically check your credit score for free through your credit card issuer, bank, or a nonprofit credit counseling agency.
How Do I Check My Credit Score Myself?
You can check your credit score by using free services offered by your credit card provider, bank, or reputable financial websites. You can also purchase your credit score directly from one of the major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion).
How Can I Raise My Credit Score Fast?
Consider the following strategies to raise your credit score fast:
- Pay down your credit card balances to improve your credit utilization ratio.
- Avoid new credit applications as they add a hard inquiry, which can temporarily lower your score.
- Review your credit report carefully and file disputes for inaccuracies.
- Make payments on time.
- Become an authorized user on someone else’s credit card with a good credit score who may be willing to help.
What’s the Difference Between FICO and VantageScore?
FICO has existed since 1989, and over 90% of lenders use it in their decision-making processes. VantageScore is newer and less widely used.
Most mortgage or car loan providers will use your FICO score, which is more established and uses slightly different scoring models for those industries. VantageScore uses a single model designed to work across all sectors. It is used less for big loans but is becoming increasingly popular for credit cards, personal loans, and free credit services.