Don't Know Your Credit Score? Connecticut Bankruptcy Attorney Can Explain Why You Should

Connecticut Bankruptcy Law Firm Understands the Importance of Monitoring Your Credit Score

Your credit score is a three-digit rating based on information included in your credit report. Your credit score is used by lending institutions to determine the risk factor and likelihood for repayment when you apply for a credit card or request a loan. Basically, the higher your score, the lower the risk is to lenders and the easier it will be for you to obtain a loan.

Before approving a loan, a lender will request a credit report from one of the three credit reporting agencies. This credit report reveals your personal information, financial history, and how well you manage your debts. Although the law entitles you to receive a free copy of your credit report annually, this free report will not reveal your actual credit score. To obtain your score, you will have to pay a fee.

Why Do I Need to Know My Credit Score?

Although it is possible to get a loan with a low score, it will be much easier with a higher one. A low score could result in much higher interest rates or having your application denied. Generally, it pays to monitor your credit score and try to improve it if you can before applying for a loan. Financial decisions you make today affect your credit tomorrow.

What Determines a Credit Score?

Your credit score depends on several factors, with some carrying more weight than others:

• Payment history – 35 percent
• Total amounts owed – 30 percent
• Length of credit history – 15 percent
• New credit – 10 percent
• Type of credit in use – 10 percent

While it is generally assumed that a good credit score ranges from 660 to 700, the median score in the U.S. is 723.

If you have questions about your credit score, the attorneys at Susan M. Williams, LLC can help you decipher the code and offer suggestions on ways to improve it. Contact our firm online, via e-mail, or call 860-265-4764 to schedule your free initial consultation with one of our attorneys today.