A credit score is a numerical representation of an individual’s creditworthiness, based on their credit history and other financial behaviors.

Credit scores are typically calculated by credit bureaus, using data from credit reports that include information such as payment history, outstanding debts, and credit utilization. The most common credit score used in the United States is the FICO score, which ranges from 300 to 850.

A higher credit score indicates that an individual is more likely to repay loans on time and is therefore considered to be a lower-risk borrower. Credit scores are used by lenders, landlords, and other financial institutions to make decisions about whether to extend credit or offer other financial products and services, as well as to determine interest rates and other terms.

Maintaining a good credit score can be important for obtaining loans or credit, securing favorable interest rates, and achieving other financial goals.