Many people use the term credit score and credit report interchangeably. Although mistaking them may seem harmless, credit scores and credit reports are very different. As stated in the name, your credit score is exactly that, a score. This score is a numerical value that is calculated and used by lenders to determine the risk associated with giving a borrower a loan.
The formula most often used to calculate a credit score takes into account a person’s payment history, amount owed, length of credit history, new credit and type of credit used. A person may receive a different credit score from each lender or reporting agency because the formula used to calculate the credit score will vary. The reason for the variance is because there are different types of credit score scoring models such as FICO, the most commonly used right now, and VantageScore, which both lenders and consumers are starting to use more often.
On the other hand, a credit report is a report of a person’s credit history. A credit report will include information such as a person’s social security number, current and previous addresses, and employment history. Besides this, a person can find a list of their lines of credit such as credit cards, student loans and mortgages, the date each one was opened, credit limits, and whether their accounts are past due or in good standing. Bankruptcies will also appear on someone’s credit report as well as the names of companies that have recently asked to see the person’s credit report.
Overall, it is also important to check your credit score in order to know where you stand, credit wise, and to be prepared for any outcomes on your credit applications. It is also important to remember to check your credit report to catch identity theft. A person should also check the credit reports from all three credit bureaus to ensure that all three credit bureaus have accurate information. As stated earlier, a credit score and a credit report are not the same thing, but they are closely related. The reason for this is because the information on a credit report is used in the calculation of a credit score.
Written by: Lesly Luna, Financial Wellness Peer Educator, University of Illinois Extension, 2017.
Reviewed by: Kathy Sweedler, Consumer Economics Educator, University of Illinois Extension, 2017.