Nolo's Plain-English Law Dictionary

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Credit Score: Numerical calculation that creditors use to evaluate the creditworthiness of someone applying for credit, such as a mortgage or credit card. High credit scores (over 700) indicate less risk that you will default on payments, and low scores (under 400) indicate potential problems. Credit scores are based on information in your credit report, such as bill-paying history and outstanding debt. The biggest credit scoring company is Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO).