Credit Reporting

Credit Reporting

People don’t realize how important your credit score is – find out here? Here are the Advantages of a Good Credit Score (cnbc.com)

Number of Americans With No Credit History. approximately 26 million adults (one out of 10) are considered to be “credit invisible”

How does your Credit Score Affect your Loan Payment?

Personal FICO scoreAverage interest rate for new car loansAverage interest rate for used car loans
Source: Experian State of the Automotive Finance Market Q2 2023
781 to 8505.07%7.09%
661 to 7806.44%9.06%
601 to 6608.99%13.49%
501 to 60011.72%18.49%
300 to 50014.18%21.38%
  • Average Credit Score - 718
  • Gen Z (18-25) has the lowest average credit score at 680
Percent of Adults Who Never Check Their Scores

Here is the following average score breakdown by age group:

  • Ages 18-23: 674
  • Ages 24-39: 680
  • Ages 40-55: 699
  • Ages 56-74: 736
  • Ages 75+: 758

Average Credit Score By Income

  • $30,000 or less per year: 590
  • $30,001 to $49,999: 643
  • $50,000 to $74,999: 737

Credit reporting is important for several reasons in the financial system, impacting both individuals and businesses. Here are some key reasons why credit reporting is crucial:

  1. Lending Decisions: Credit reports are used by lenders to assess the creditworthiness of individuals and businesses. The information in a credit report, such as credit scores and credit history, helps lenders determine the level of risk associated with extending credit. This, in turn, influences decisions on whether to approve or deny a loan or credit application.

  2. Interest Rates and Terms: For approved loans and credit, credit reports play a role in determining the interest rates and terms offered. Individuals with higher credit scores may qualify for lower interest rates, while those with lower scores may face higher interest rates or less favorable terms.

  3. Access to Financial Products: Good credit is often a prerequisite for obtaining various financial products, including credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, and personal loans. A positive credit history enhances one’s ability to access a diverse range of financial services.

  4. Employment Opportunities: In some cases, employers may check an individual’s credit report as part of the hiring process, especially for positions that involve financial responsibilities. While this practice is not universal, it highlights the broader impact of credit on personal and professional aspects of life.

  5. Renting a Home: Landlords may use credit reports to evaluate the financial responsibility of potential tenants. A positive credit history can increase the likelihood of being approved for a rental property.

  6. Insurance Premiums: Some insurance companies use credit information to determine insurance premiums. Individuals with higher credit scores may be considered less risky and, as a result, could receive lower insurance rates.

  7. Security Deposits: A positive credit history may reduce or eliminate the need for security deposits when setting up utility services, such as electricity, water, or internet.

  8. Building and Maintaining Financial Health: Regularly checking and managing one’s credit report is a proactive way to monitor financial health. It allows individuals to identify and address any errors, detect potential identity theft, and take steps to improve their credit over time.

In summary, credit reporting is a critical component of the financial ecosystem, influencing lending decisions, interest rates, access to financial products, and even non-financial aspects of life such as renting a home or securing certain job opportunities. Maintaining a positive credit history is essential for individuals seeking financial stability and flexibility.