What exactly is a credit score?

A credit score is a three‑digit number based on your credit report that helps lenders gauge your likelihood of repaying borrowed money. A higher score signals lower risk.

Are there different credit score models?

Yes. FICO is the most widely used, but VantageScore and other models also matter. Score ranges differ slightly between models.

How often should I check my credit score?

Check your credit reports at least annually—free from AnnualCreditReport.com—and consider soft‑inquiry score checks more frequently to monitor trends.