By Ashley Kilroy

A 681 credit score falls into the good range, which runs from 670 to 739.

Think of a good credit score as your ticket to better financial opportunities. It can help you get approved for things like a car loan, a mortgage, or even a personal loan to renovate your dream kitchen. However, while a 681 credit score is considered good, it’s not in the “very good” or “exceptional” range, which may limit your access to the most competitive rates and financing terms.

Read on to dive into what a 681 credit score means when applying for a credit card, mortgage, auto loan, or personal loan.

What Does a 681 Credit Score Mean?

The higher your credit score, the more likely banks, lenders, and credit unions are to trust you. A good score reflects that you’ve managed credit responsibly in the past and are likely to do so again in the future. This, in turn, can make it easier to get loans or credit cards.

Your credit score is a three-digit number that comes from the information in your credit reports. You may actually have more than one score because there are different systems, such as FICO® vs. VantageScore, or a custom system from a lender. That’s why what one lender calls a “good” score might be different from another.

FICO Scores tend to be used by most lenders. Here’s how they break down:

•   Poor credit: 300-579

•   Fair credit: 580-669

•   Good credit: 670-739

•   Very good credit: 740-799

•   Exceptional credit: 800-850

A score of 681 probably means you have used credit responsibly but you may have had some glitches. For example, according to Experian®, 36% of people with a 681 score have a late payment (over 30 days past due) on their credit report. (As a point of reference, the average credit score in the U.S. is currently 717.)

A good credit score is enough for most lenders to approve you for an installment loan or line of credit. But keep in mind, you might not get the best rates or credit card perks that come with a higher score.

Recommended: Do You Need to Pay Taxes on Personal Loans?

What Else Can You Get with a 681 Credit Score?

Having a good credit score means there’s a strong chance you’ll qualify for a wide range of financial products like mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, and credit cards. Although a 681 credit score is above average, it’s not in the highest two credit score ranges (very good and excellent). This means some lenders might not offer you the best deals, such as the lowest interest rates or top rewards for a credit card.

That said, here’s what you might expect with a credit score of 681.

Can I Get a Credit Card with a 681 Credit Score?

You don’t need a specific credit score to get a credit card. Even with poor or fair credit, you can still qualify for certain cards. However, these often come with lower credit limits and higher interest rates. If your score is above 700, you’ll usually have access to an array of credit card options.

With a 681 credit score, you’ll likely have a number of credit cards to choose from, since you’ve shown you can handle credit responsibly. This could mean better interest rates, introductory offers, and rewards like airline miles you can put toward your next trip. You may also avoid paying an annual fee.

For the very best rates and rewards, though, a credit score above 740 is usually needed.

Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 681 Credit Score?

A 681 credit score will usually qualify you to get an auto loan. According to Experian, 67% of auto loans go to borrowers with credit scores of 661 or higher, so your score is in that range. At the end of 2024, the average credit score for a car loan for a new car was 755, and for a used car 694.

Auto lenders often work with a wide range of credit profiles, giving borrowers more options. You can explore offers from dealerships, banks, and local credit unions.

At the end of 2024, many car manufacturers were offering 0% financing deals for “well-qualified buyers.” Typically, “well-qualified” means having a very good credit score, usually between 740 and 799. With a 681 credit score, you might not qualify for these top deals, but you’ll still have other options.

Remember, if you want to find the best interest rate available to you, it’s a good idea to compare offers from multiple auto lenders. Building your credit score can also make a big difference, helping you qualify for lower rates and reducing your overall borrowing costs.

Can I Get a Mortgage with a 681 Credit Score?

The credit score you need for a mortgage typically depends on the type of loan you’re applying for.

•   For a conventional loan, you usually need a credit score of at least 620, though some lenders may prefer a score of 660 or higher.

•   For a jumbo loan, lenders typically require a score of 720 or higher.

•   FHA loans require a score of at least 500 if you can make a 10% down payment. If you want to avoid a large down payment, you’ll need a minimum score of 580.

•   For USDA loans, most lenders look for a credit score of 620 or higher.

•   Among other qualifications, VA loan lenders may accept credit scores as low as 500, but others may require a score of 600 or 620.

With a 681 credit score, you meet the requirements for most mortgage programs.

However, just qualifying doesn’t mean you’ll get the best rates or terms. Lenders typically reserve their lowest interest rates and best offers for people with very good or exceptional credit scores.

Also, remember that your credit score is just one piece of the mortgage approval equation for a home loan. Lenders also consider your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, income, employment history, and the size of your down payment when making their decision.

Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 691 Credit Score?

Personal loans can be a good way to obtain a lump sum of cash with interest rates that are typically significantly less than what you’d pay if you used a credit card. The funds can be used to finance a wedding or pay a major dental bill.

Another popular use for personal loans is consolidating credit card debt, which can turn debt that’s a line of credit into an installment loan. As you think about whether a personal loan is right for you, it’s wise to remember that most loans are unsecured, meaning you don’t need collateral to borrow against. The repayment terms are usually between one and seven years, and the amounts can range up to $50,000 or even $100,000.

Typically, you’ll need a certain credit score for a personal loan: Most lenders usually want to see 610 or higher. A score of 700 or higher, though, can unlock more favorable rates and terms. It’s worth noting, however, that each lender has its own rules, so approval isn’t guaranteed everywhere. Income, job history, current debt, and other factors may play a role. If you want to build your credit score with the goal of qualifying for better offers, practicing habits like paying your bills on time and reducing credit card balances can have a positive impact.

Recommended: How Does Debt Consolidation Work?

The Takeaway

A 681 credit score is considered a good score. It puts you in position to qualify for a variety of credit options with favorable rates and terms (though those with a very good or excellent score usually get the best offers). A 681 score should unlock such financial products as credit cards, mortgage and auto loans as well as personal loans.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

By Ashley Kilroy

A 790 credit score is considered good. In fact, it falls into the very good category on the popular FICO® scale, and on the VantageScore scale, it’s even better, landing in the superprime or excellent range. Having a very good or exceptional credit score means you can usually qualify for many credit products, often with most favorable interest rates and terms.

Keep reading to find out what a 790 score really means and check out the credit cards, car loans, mortgages, and personal loans that might be available to you.

What Does a 790 Credit Score Mean?

First, it’s important to understand what a credit score actually is. Think of it as a credit report card for how well you’ve managed credit so far. In other words, it tells lenders how dependable you’ve been at paying back your debts.

There are different scoring models, like FICO and VantageScore, that lenders use to decide if you qualify for things like auto loans, personal loans, and credit cards. Your credit score also plays a big role in determining the interest rates and loan terms you’re offered.

FICO Scores are the most popular choice for lenders. Here’s how they categorize the score ranges:

•   800 to 850: Excellent

•   740 to 799: Very good

•   670 to 739: Good

•   580 to 669: Fair

•   300 to 579: Poor

A 790 FICO score falls within the very good range, which usually means you’ve done a great job managing credit and paying your bills on time. If there are any issues on your report, they’re probably small, like one missed payment, and happened a long time ago. For example, only about 15% of people with a 790 score have a missed payment that appears on their report, according to Experian®.

A very good credit score means banks and lenders see you as a top customer and often provide better lending options and terms. In addition, it’s worth noting that a credit score of 790 is considerably higher than the current national average credit score of 717.

What Else Can You Get With a 790 Credit Score?

If you are curious about what a 790 credit score can get you, you’re probably wondering about credit cards, auto loans, mortgages, or personal loans. A 790 FICO score puts you in a great position for financing approval, but it’s worth noting that your credit score is just one of several factors lenders consider when deciding on approval, interest rates, terms, and perks like credit card rewards.

Lenders also look at things like your employment history, income, and the balance you carry on revolving debt compared to how much money you bring in — which is known as your debt-to-income ratio. These factors give lenders a fuller picture of your creditworthiness.

Can I Get a Credit Card With a 790 Credit Score?

With a 790 credit score, you’ll likely qualify for most credit cards. The options available may include credit cards with cash back rewards, more favorable annual percentage rates (APRs), and other attractive benefits.

However, the lowest APRs and premium perks, like free checked bags on flights, travel insurance, or higher points-earning rates, are often reserved for folks with credit scores at or above 800.

For example, black credit cards, which can offer entry to luxe airport lounges and similar rewards, may only be available (sometimes exclusively by invitation) to those with the highest credit scores.

That said, your solid credit score can still open the door to plenty of great credit card options. Make sure to explore the different cards available to find one that fits your spending habits and needs.

Can I Get an Auto Loan With a 790 Credit Score?

A 790 credit score gives you a solid advantage when applying for an auto loan. According to Experian, the average credit score for financing a car is 717, so with a 790 score, you’re well above average. Lenders use your credit score to determine how likely you are to repay the loan. A higher score tells lenders you’re less of a risk, which can result in better interest rates for car loans and top-notch terms.

It’s also worth pointing out that lenders consider other factors, like your income, down payment, loan terms, and whether you’re buying a new or used car. New cars often come with lower rates because car manufacturers and banks compete to attract buyers, and there likely aren’t condition or wear-and-tear issues for the vehicle. On the other hand, used cars usually have higher rates since lenders don’t have the same incentives to lower them and the cars may be less reliable.

Can I Get a Mortgage With a 790 Credit Score?

It’s possible to qualify for a mortgage with a 790 credit score. You may even qualify for loans with highly competitive rates. In addition, a jumbo loan, which is larger than a typical conventional loan, may be within reach since the minimum credit score requirement is typically 700.

Keep in mind, though, that credit score requirements vary depending on the type of mortgage you’re applying for. For conventional loans and VA loans, you usually need a credit score of 620 or higher, while FHA loans require at least a 580 credit score to qualify.

That said, meeting the credit score requirement is just one part of the mortgage approval process. Lenders will also consider other factors, like how much you’re putting down on the home, your total debt, your income, and more. They do this to ensure you can afford the monthly payments and are less likely to default on the loan.

Can I Get a Personal Loan With a 790 Credit Score?

Personal loans are typically flexible unsecured loans that allow you to access a lump sum of cash for almost any purpose. For instance, you might use the money to pay off a large, unexpected medical bill or to finance a vacation.

One popular use for a personal loan is consolidating credit card debt. This can allow you to combine multiple high-interest credit lines into a convenient single installment loan. The interest rate is typically significantly lower on these loans than on credit cards. Expect to have a fixed rate and a term of one to seven years in most cases.

There’s no magic number needed in terms of credit scores when applying for a personal loan. That said, typically, if you have a credit score of at least 610, it improves your chances of qualifying, and a score in the 700s can help you secure better rates. With a 790 credit score, you’re in a strong position to get competitive rates and terms.

Remember that the higher your credit score, the less interest you may pay, which can save you money over the life of the loan. You can use a personal loan calculator to run the numbers and compare options.

The Takeaway

When it comes to mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, and even credit cards, a 790 credit score is likely to help you qualify for a line of credit or loan. While there’s always room for improvement, you’re already in a good position to secure competitive rates and perks. Just remember, your credit score isn’t the only thing lenders consider when approving your loan, so review all other requirements before moving forward.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.

By Kim Franke-Folstad

A 737 credit score is near the top of what is considered the good range using both FICO® and VantageScore credit scoring models. That three-digit number could make it easier for you to qualify for a credit card or loan with a favorable interest rate.

If you’ve been working hard to build or maintain your credit and you’re curious about where you stand as a potential borrower, read on for a look at what you can expect with a 737 credit score.

What Does a 737 Credit Score Mean?

Using the popular FICO scoring model, a good score is anywhere from 670 to 739.

FICO scores are organized into the following tiers:

•   Poor: 300-579

•   Fair: 580-669

•   Good: 670-739

•   Very good: 740-799

•   Excellent (or Exceptional): 800-850

The higher your score, the more likely you are to be offered the lowest-available interest rates and other perks — and that can save you money.

With a 737 FICO Score, you’re solidly in the good range and just a couple of points from the very good range, which is 740 to 799. (The excellent or exceptional range, which is 800-plus, may even be within reach.) As a point of comparison, the average credit score in the U.S. is currently 717, so you are ranking above that figure. Nice work!

What Else Can You Get With a 737 Credit Score?

When you’re trying to determine what a 737 score can get you as a borrower, it’s important to note that lenders have multiple scoring models to choose from, including some that are industry-specific (for auto loans, mortgages, etc.). And it’s up to each individual lender to decide how it will assess credit scores.

Lenders also generally look at other factors besides credit scores when assessing a borrower’s creditworthiness. If you have a low debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, solid employment, a good income, and cash in the bank or other assets, for example, a lender will typically take that into consideration when reviewing your loan or credit card application.

With that in mind, here’s what you may be able to expect with a 737 credit score.

Can I Get a Credit Card With a 737 Credit Score?

A 737 credit score should be high enough for you to be approved for an unsecured credit card with some rewards or other benefits. But you may not qualify for a luxury or premium card, the lowest annual percentage rate (APR) offered, the highest credit limit, or certain premium rewards or privileges. The closer your score is to 800 or higher, the more likely it is you’ll be eligible for the cards with the most valuable perks.

If you’re looking for a new credit card, it can be helpful to use a preapproval tool to compare various offers and find the best card for you. You also can get a good idea as to whether you’ll be approved for the card you want before you actually apply.

While you’re doing your research, you also may want to look for cards that come with free credit score monitoring and/or an app that makes it easy and convenient to track your spending and saving. These extras can be useful as you work to keep improving your credit.

One more note about credit cards: If you find your debt is higher than you’d like, you might consider a credit card consolidation loan, in which you replace high-interest credit card debts with a single installment loan, typically at a significantly lower interest rate.

Can I Get an Auto Loan With a 737 Credit Score?

The minimum credit score needed to get a car loan can vary from one lender to the next. And lenders may use an auto industry-specific scoring model that works a little differently than your basic credit score. But typically, if you have a credit score in the good range, you can qualify for an auto loan.

For car buyers, a 737 credit score falls into what’s called the prime loan range, which means they can expect to be offered an APR that’s at least one or two percentage points higher than what buyers with credit scores in the next highest range (super prime) are paying. This might motivate you to wait before financing a car so you can build your credit score into that range.

By the way, if you’re wondering if it makes more sense to buy a new or used car, there are pros and cons to each. It may seem counterintuitive, but it can be easier to get financing for a new car and a lower interest rate. (This is in part due to the predictable value of a new car vs. a used car presenting unknowns regarding how well it will run.) A used car is likely to have a lower price, though, and a shorter loan term. Which means you may pay less in interest over the life of the loan.

Can I Get a Mortgage With a 737 Credit Score?

Loan requirements, including minimum credit scores, can vary with different types of mortgages. And lenders may have their own credit score mortgage rate requirements as well. Here are some basics to consider:

•   If you’re applying for a conventional mortgage loan, you typically will need a credit score of at least 620 to be approved. With a 737 credit score, lenders may not offer you the best interest rates available, but you may find you’re within a percentage point or less of better-qualified homebuyers.

•   If you’re seeking a jumbo loan (with a principal of $806,500+ in most areas), you typically need at least a credit score of 700, so you are in good standing to seek approval.

•   Although the Department of Veterans Affairs doesn’t set a minimum credit score requirement for VA loan borrowers, lenders typically like to see at least a 620. And you may qualify for a lower interest rate with your 737 credit score.

•   Considering a government-insured FHA loan? Your 737 credit score can make you eligible for a lower down payment. Borrowers with a credit score as low as 500 can qualify, but with a credit score that’s 580 or higher, you can put down a minimum of 3.5%. If your credit score is between 500 and 579, your minimum down payment is 10%.

•   A minimum score of 640 is recommended for most government-backed USDA loans, although borrowers without a credit history may be evaluated through other criteria.

Though a 737 credit score should be high enough to qualify for any of these loan types, you may want to talk to a mortgage professional about how various costs might affect your monthly payments and which option might be right for you.

Can I Get a Personal Loan With a 737 Credit Score?

Unless lenders see some potential red flags when reviewing your application — maybe you haven’t had your job for very long or you don’t have much money in the bank — you should be able to qualify for unsecured personal loans with a 737 credit score.

Personal loans can be used for almost any legal purpose you can think of. For instance, you might fund a vacation with the money, use it to finance a wedding, pay for home renovations, or take care of a major dental bill.

A personal loan calculator can help you determine how much your monthly payments might be if you choose a personal loan. You can also calculate how much you could save by using a personal loan to pay off any existing high-interest debt that’s getting in the way of your goals.

Recommended: How to Apply for a Personal Loan

The Takeaway

A 737 credit score is generally considered to be in the good range, and it’s higher than the current average credit score of 717 in America. If you’re looking to take out a loan or get a new credit card, most lenders are likely to treat you as a creditworthy candidate. While you may not qualify for the very best rates and terms, you should have options to consider when accessing credit.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.