Is Your Credit Score Part of the 50%? Take a Look

How does your credit score rate? In a recent report compiled and released by Experian, the average U.S. consumer’s VantageScore is 749 (Experian Information Solutions, Inc., 2011). That is on a scale of 501 – 990, with higher scores indicating better credit (see scale breakdown below).

A = 900 – 990 [1]

B = 800 – 899

C = 700 – 799 (this is where the average credit score ranks)

D = 600 – 699

F = 501 – 599

In analyzing the scores of consumers, Experian grouped data by geographic location. It turns out that eight of the top 10 states with the highest average credit scores are located in the Midwest. These include areas in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, and South Dakota.

Of the 10 cities with the lowest credit scores, eight were located in southern states like Texas, Mississippi, Georgia, and Louisiana. One cause for this may be higher unemployment rates in southern states. The research did find a correlation between lower unemployment rates and higher credit scores.

How can you get a copy of your VantageScore to compare? Visit Experian.com, and you can request yours for about $8.00. Many people are apprehensive about seeing their credit reports or score. If this is you, feel free to contact one of our certified credit counselors. They can help you:

• Understand the information in your report,
• Take the steps to dispute inaccurate information
• Help you develop a plan for paying down debts or bringing accounts current
• Learn ways to positively impact your credit score

You can learn more about credit scores and ways to manage your credit by visiting our resource center or clicking on the topics links on the right-hand side of your screen.

[1] Experian Information Solutions, Inc. (June 1, 2011). What is Your State of Credit? Experian.com. Retrieved November 4, 2011. http://www.experian.com/live-credit-smart/live-credit-smart.html.

Published Nov 4, 2011.