Credit Score Ranges Explained

The six FICO score ranges from 300 to 850 — what each means for approval odds, interest rates, and your legal credit-reporting rights.

FICO Credit Score Ranges

No Credit Score — No Score / Thin File
No FICO score yet. Build a thin file into a scorable one in 6-12 months with the right starter accounts.
Poor — 300-579
Significant credit challenges. Subprime rates, limited approvals — but the fastest improvement is possible here.
Fair — 580-669
Below-average credit. FHA mortgages and most cards open up; rates remain elevated until you cross 670.
Good — 670-739
Above-average credit. Conventional mortgages, competitive auto rates, and most rewards cards become accessible.
Very Good — 740-799
Excellent credit. Best-tier mortgage and auto rates, premium cards, and lower insurance pricing in most states.
Exceptional — 800-850
Top-tier credit. You qualify for the absolute best rates and terms across every lending product.

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Consumers are protected by several federal laws when dealing with credit reporting issues related to credit education:

Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) — 15 U.S.C. §1681: Requires credit bureaus to maintain accurate information and investigate disputes within 30 days. Consumers can dispute inaccurate items directly with bureaus or furnishers.
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) — 15 U.S.C. §1692: Prohibits abusive, deceptive, and unfair debt collection practices. Collectors must validate debts upon request.
Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA) — 15 U.S.C. §1679: Regulates credit repair companies and protects consumers from deceptive practices.

Reviewed by Hemminger Law Firm, Consumer Rights Attorneys | Last reviewed: January 1, 2026