Why are my Credit Scores different?
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In the United States, three leading credit bureaus accurately portray, capture, and report detailed credit histories. Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion collect the most information on U.S citizens. However, they don’t necessarily assess credit history in the same way. One credit bureau may report debts that the other two missed, or the same data may have different importance.
A standard Fico scoring system resides at every credit bureau where lenders require consumer’s credit risk evaluations. The FICO scoring system is similar across various credit bureaus to ensure that credit scores remain within the same range. Most credit scores weigh the same factors such as payment history, the rate of utilization, the length of your account, and your number of new inquiries.
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sourceDo credit bureaus effect my credit score?
The credit bureaus’ underlying data drives the significant difference in credit scores from one establishment to another. Fico scores are designed to optimize the primary database of every facility. Then, how can scores differ from one bureau to another when the fundamental criteria are the same?
Keep the following criteria in mind when you consider multiple credit scores:
Not all credit scores are FICO Scores. By choosing a FICO Score, you’re getting industry-leading knowledge and expertise that most lenders respect and trust.
Comparing credit score
The comparison between FICO Scores needs to be done at the same time. Score divergence may appear when various scores are pulled weeks from one another. The ‘week old’ score may already be dated, and new data may influence the outcome.
All your credit information isn’t necessarily reported to all three credit bureaus. Lenders, collection agencies, and court records influence your consumer risk. Don’t assume the best credit score will be the one your lender takes into consideration to assess your loan application.
Lenders don’t report credit information to all credit bureaus simultaneously, nor do they necessarily have all the information about your credit history. One bureau may have a more accurate oversight of your finances than another.
Incomplete credit score file
Fragmented or incomplete files may cause discrepancies. Perhaps, you’ve applied for a loan with your maiden name, a new address, or with an error social security number. This credit history may appear on someone else’s report or may entirely be missing from yours.
Online credit monitoring services, such as Credit Karma, are only estimates and are rarely accurate. Usually, the Credit Karma score is 30 – 50 points higher than the actual score.
No matter the credit scores you look at, most of them give you an overall idea of your creditworthiness. Staying on top of your finances determines where you stand, and which areas may require improvement. Stay informed of your economic situation with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion and remember the scores you see online are only estimates.
A personalized approach to investing doesn’t need to be complicated. Talk with a local Lender to help decide which option makes the most sense for your financial future. Feel free to call The Cain Mortgage Team for a free consultation!
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