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Finding the Retirement Strategy That’s Right for You

Saving for retirement is challenging. That’s why our three-part series this week focuses on how to get your long-term savings on track. First, we explored why habit formation is so important for long-term savings and investments. Below, we tackle why there is no one-size- fits-all solution. And later this week, we will get into how streamlining your retirement portfolio with the help of an individual retirement account (IRA) can potentially help you reach your goals.

Retirement planning is a long and personal journey. While the goal may be the same for all of us – to save enough money to sustain our life and lifestyle after retiring – our respective paths will be unique. And the great variety of investment options and retirement accounts further complicates things. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to retirement planning.

Creating a strategy that fits your individual financial situation, long-term goals, and time horizon can help you stay on track. And that’s exactly what we’re tackling today.

Finding Your Path

A lot of your financial decisions – whether retirement-related or not – are driven by your individual circumstances, including factors such as your age, income, goals, and risk tolerance. For example, if you start saving in your 20s, you may get more bang for the money you invest through the power of compound growth (as we discussed in the first article of this series). But it may be harder to find the money to invest given that most people tend to earn less at the beginning of their career.

The first step in developing a strategy may be the trickiest: figuring out how much money you will need for retirement. A rule of thumb says you should save 10 times your annual salary. The 80% rule aims to replace 80% of your pre-retirement income by the time you leave the workforce through withdrawals from your retirement savings. Another (simpler) rule of thumb suggests saving 15% of your annual salary for retirement every year. Depending on whether you have already gotten started on saving, these rough guidelines may give you an idea how your savings to date stack up.

For most people, saving for retirement involves investing, which can provide a much higher return than a simple savings account. As such, you’ll need to consider your risk tolerance. All investments come with some risk – but some are riskier than others. Building a diversified portfolio that includes different types of investments, such as stocks, bonds, cash, and alternative investments, can help you balance your overall investment risk. And your time horizon may also play a role: Conventional wisdom suggests that younger people should invest more aggressively and gradually dial it back for more conservative investments as they approach retirement.

If you’re not sure where to start your investing journey, consider speaking to a Certified Financial Planner, a service SoFi offers to members.

Your Savings and Your Tax Bill

Tax loopholes aren’t only for the ultra-wealthy. In fact, strategically navigating your taxes is a huge part of saving for retirement. By offering tax savings on your contributions or on your eventual withdrawals, these types of accounts allow you to effectively save more. There are pros and cons to paying taxes up front or later, much of which is connected to your current and your expected tax rate. If you’re in a lower tax bracket now, saving post-tax dollars today is great. Meanwhile, if you’re in a higher tax bracket now than you expect to be in retirement, paying Uncle Sam for your eventual retirement withdrawals is a more cost efficient way to save.

If you’re a high earner in a high income tax bracket, it may be advantageous to lower your tax liability now by using an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), which are among the most popular retirement savings accounts. Contributions to a traditional IRA are tax deductible, but your withdrawals (after the age of 59½) are taxed as regular income. In contrast, with a Roth IRA, contributions are not tax deductible, but withdrawals made after age 59½ (of funds that have been held for at least five years) are tax-free. For both types of IRAs, the 2024 contribution limit was $7,000, or $8,000 over the age of 50. These limits will remain the same in 2025.

The other major type of retirement savings account is the 401(k), which is offered by an employer. With this type of savings plan, you don’t have to pay taxes on the money you deposit; and in a way, you’re shielding a portion of your income from being taxed. Withdrawals in retirement are taxed as ordinary income. But the biggest potential advantage comes if your employer offers a match: This is essentially free money to boost your savings and financial planners often recommend maximizing your 401(k) match possibilities before contributing to other retirement plans like IRAs. Last year, the 401(k) contribution limit was $23,000.

You can have both a 401(k) and an IRA that you contribute to every year. You can also use your IRA to consolidate old 401(k) from previous jobs into one account. (SoFi offers you a 1% match for any rollovers and contributions to a SoFi IRA.) We’ll discuss this in detail in the third part of our series. By combining the two types of accounts for your retirement planning you can take advantage of their benefits at the same time, potentially giving you more control over your finances. Investing through both a 401(k) and an IRA also allows you to take advantage of compounding growth with two different sums of money, potentially boosting your retirement nest egg even further.

Your Flexibility and Control

An IRA allows you to build a balanced portfolio, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and even real estate. This flexibility enables you to build a diversified portfolio that aligns closely with your financial goals and risk tolerance. This level of control can be particularly beneficial if you want to take a more active role in managing your retirement savings. If you’re looking to set up an account for yourself, check out the SoFi IRA and get started.

Employer-sponsored plans like 401(k)s also give you some choice in determining your investments, but they’re often much more limited. For example, you may only be able to set your risk tolerance rather than pick and choose the exact asset classes or sectors you put your money into. Other plans may allow you to choose between specific portfolios. Either way, your investing choice is likely more limited with a 401(k).

The bottom line is this: The best time to start saving and investing was yesterday (or 15 years ago). But the next best time is today. There are advantages and drawbacks to both 401(k)s and IRAs. But by combining them to save for your future, you can get the best of both worlds, maximizing both your immediate benefits (such as tax deductions and contribution matches) and long-term growth potential for a comfortable retirement.


image credit: Bernie Pesko

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

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Is 614 a Good Credit Score?


Is 614 a Good Credit Score?

614 Credit Score

On this page:

    By Dan Miller

    According to the FICO credit scoring model, a 614 credit score is considered “fair.” If you have this score, lenders may see you as a subprime borrower, though you should still be able to get approved for certain types of loans and credit cards.

    Find out what a 614 credit score means for borrowers and the types of lending products they can access.

    Key Points

    •   A 614 credit score is categorized as “fair” in the FICO® scoring model.

    •   The average American credit score is 717, significantly higher than 614.

    •   Borrowers with a 614 score can qualify for some credit products, often with less favorable terms.

    •   Potential drawbacks include higher interest rates and down payments, and limited access to top credit offers.

    •   Strategies to improve a 614 score include timely payments, low credit utilization, and regular credit report checks.

    What Does a 614 Credit Score Mean?

    A credit score is a three-digit number that’s calculated using information in your credit reports, such as your history of on-time payments, length of credit history, and how much available credit you’re using. Lenders use this number to determine how likely a borrower is to default on a loan. The higher your score, the more likely a lender is to approve you for personal loans or lines of credit.

    There are several types of credit scores, but the one most widely used is the FICO Score. FICO scores range from 300 to 850 and are organized into the following tiers:

    •   Poor: 300-579

    •   Fair: 580-669

    •   Good: 670-739

    •   Very good: 740-799

    •   Excellent: 800-850

    As you can see, 614 falls within the “fair” category, which is one notch below “good.” It’s also well below the average American’s credit score of 717.

    What Else Can You Get with a 614 Credit Score?

    Here’s a look at how a 614 FICO score can affect your chances of getting different types of credit:

    Can I Get a Credit Card with a 614 Credit Score?

    While you probably won’t qualify for the best credit card offers with a 614 credit score, you may be approved for a traditional credit card or store credit card.

    If you don’t qualify for a card — or can’t get one with the perks you want — then you may want to explore applying for a secured credit card. It works in the same way as an unsecured credit card except you could be required to put down a deposit equal to your credit limit.

    Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 614 Credit Score?

    Yes, it is possible to get an auto loan with a fair credit score, but you may be charged a higher interest rate or have to put down a higher down payment than prospective borrowers with better credit scores. Note that a 614 credit score car loan may not be offered by all lenders. Also, interest rates can vary by lender, so shop around for the best car loan terms.

    Recommended: Smarter Ways to Get a Car Loan

    Can I Get a Mortgage With a 614 Credit Score?

    While you may not qualify for certain loans or programs, it is possible to get a mortgage with a 614 FICO score. An FHA loan, for example, has a minimum credit score of 500 with a 10% down payment.

    If you’re able to build your credit score a bit and strengthen your finances, a conventional mortgage may be within reach. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac require a minimum credit score of 620 for a fixed-rate mortgage. You’ll also need a down payment of at least 3% and have a low debt-to-income ratio.

    Your lender may also have further restrictions or qualifications, possibly including additional fees, a higher down payment requirement, and/or higher interest rates.

    Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 614 Credit Score?

    It is possible to get a personal loan or credit card consolidation loan with a credit score of 614, but as with other forms of lending, you’re likely to be charged a higher-than-average interest rate. You may also face less-attractive loan terms, including a shorter loan term or additional fees.

    Use a personal loan calculator to see how different interest rates, loan amounts, and term lengths affect your possible monthly payment.

    The Takeaway

    Is 614 a good credit score? According to a widely used credit scoring model, it’s considered “fair,” or one notch below “good.” While the score could unlock certain lending products including credit cards, mortgages, and other types of loans, you may be charged a higher interest rate and have less-desirable terms than borrowers with better credit scores. If you can work on improving your credit score before applying to borrow money, you may find yourself in a better overall financial situation.

    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.

    SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

    View your rate

    SoFi Loan Products
    SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


    Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

    Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.



    Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.



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    Is 808 a Good Credit Score?


    Is 808 a Good Credit Score?

    808 credit score

    On this page:

      By Dan Miller

      An 808 credit score is a good credit score and more: It’s considered an exceptional or excellent score, which is the highest possible category. Typically, credit scores range from 300 to 850, so an 808 credit score is almost as high as it can get. An 808 credit score signifies that you have a long history of using credit responsibly, with little to no missed bill payments or bankruptcies.

      Key Points

      •   Better than “good,” an 808 credit score is considered excellent, indicating responsible credit use and few missed payments.

      •   Only about 21% of Americans have a credit score over 800, with the national average being 717.

      •   This score qualifies you for favorable mortgage rates and approval for various loans.

      •   With an 808 score, you can access top-tier credit card offers with perks and personal loans at favorable rates.

      •   A high credit score can aid in obtaining jumbo mortgages, requiring higher loan amounts.

      What Does an 808 Credit Score Mean?

      The most widely used credit scores are FICO® Scores, which were created by the Fair Isaac Corporation. Generally, credit scores range from 300 to 850, with higher numbers representing people with better credit.

      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

      An 808 credit score is considered excellent, which means that you’re likely to be approved for a mortgage, personal loan, or most other forms of credit at favorable rates.

      Recommended: How to Apply for a Personal Loan

      What Else Can You Get With an 808 Credit Score?

      A credit score of 808 is considered excellent, which should put you in a very good position for all different types of credit. About 21% of Americans have a score over 800; the average credit score in America is 717.

      Having a score of 808 indicates that you’ve handled credit responsibly in the past. Lenders therefore will likely view you as a good candidate for loans and lines of credit.

      Here is a quick look at what you might be able to get with an 808 credit score:

      Can I Get a Credit Card With an 808 Credit Score?

      It is very likely that you will be able to be approved for a credit card with a credit score of 808. An 808 credit score is considered to be in the “excellent” range, so you are likely to be able to access top-notch offers. This may mean cards with a very favorable interest rate and a robust array of credit card perks, such as cash back and travel benefits.

      In fact, depending on your spending habits and your preferences, you might be offered one of the ultra-premium black credit cards on the market.

      (If you already have one or more credit cards, you’re also in good shape to be approved for a credit card consolidation loan. This could allow you to bundle debt into one installment loan, for easier bill paying and potentially a lower interest rate.)

      Can I Get an Auto Loan With an 808 Credit Score?

      Yes, you are likely to be approved for an auto loan with an 808 FICO score. As noted, an 808 score is in the excellent range of credit scores. Lenders will probably see you as highly creditworthy, which means that you are in a good position to be approved for an auto loan or any other type of credit. What’s more, you will probably be offered the most favorable rates and terms.

      An example:

      •   As of the third quarter of 2024, a person with a credit score between 601 and 660 would be charged, on average, an annual percentage rate (APR) of 9.73%.

      •   However, a person with a score of 781-850 would be assessed, on average, a 5.08% APR, meaning a significantly lower amount of interest would be due over the life of the loan.

      Keep in mind, though, that just like with credit cards and other forms of credit, lenders will also usually be looking at your income and other financial information before approving you for a loan. So even if you have an excellent score like an 808 FICO credit score, you may not be approved if you have insufficient income or fall short in other criteria.

      Can I Get a Mortgage With an 808 Credit Score?

      A FICO score of 808 usually puts you in a good position to be approved for a mortgage. If you are approved for a mortgage with a credit score that high, you’re also likely to qualify for a good mortgage rate. Many mortgage lenders have different rates for customers with different credit scores, so having an excellent credit score will help you get the best mortgage rates available.

      A home mortgage is one of the most complicated types of loans, and the exact rates and terms that you get depend on many disparate factors. While having an excellent credit score like an 808 puts you in a good position, you’ll also need to make sure to have other positive indicators.

      These may include an income that supports your monthly payment, a sufficient down payment, and a home whose value is high enough to qualify for the loan amount.

      A high credit score can be an asset when seeking a mortgage in another way. If you are applying for a jumbo mortgage vs. a conforming loan, that means you are seeking to access a higher amount of funding. Currently, that means a loan of $806,500 or higher for most areas of the U.S. These loans usually get approved for people with scores over 700, with 740 being the average to qualify.

      Can I Get a Personal Loan With an 808 Credit Score?

      Like other types of loans, an 808 credit score puts you in a good position to be approved for a personal loan. Additionally, many lenders give lower rates to people with higher credit scores.

      Given the flexibility of personal loans (you can use them for almost any purpose you can think of, from funding a vacation to paying off a large medical bill), this can be a good option for accessing cash for many people.

      You can use our personal loan calculator to determine how likely you are to be approved for a loan and what terms you might expect.

      Recommended: Typical Personal Loan Requirements Needed for Approval

      The Takeaway

      An 808 credit score is considered in the excellent range, which puts it above a good score. A score of 808 is in the highest possible range and reflects that a person manages credit well. Having a credit score of 808 will help put you in a good position to be approved for mortgages, personal loans, credit cards, and other types of credit, typically with the most favorable rates and terms.

      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.

      SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

      View your rate

      SoFi Loan Products
      SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


      Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

      *Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

      Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


      This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.



      Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

      Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.




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      Is 807 a Good Credit Score?


      Is 807 a Good Credit Score?

      807 credit score

      On this page:

        By Jamie Cattanach

        An 807 credit score is better than good. If you have a credit score of 807, congratulations are in order: Your credit score is in the highest tier possible, which is known as excellent or exceptional.

        Having a high credit score can unlock many doors in the world of loans and lines of credit. You are likely to receive the most favorable interest rates, terms, and perks.

        Key Points

        •   An 807 credit score is excellent, falling in the highest range of 800-850.

        •   This score typically qualifies a person for the most favorable interest rates and terms on loans and credit cards.

        •   Chances of mortgage approval, including for jumbo loans, can be high with an 807 score.

        •   An 807 credit score can also help gain access to top credit cards and competitive auto loans.

        •   An excellent credit score can help qualify you for personal loans, to be used for such purposes as medical fees and vacation financing.

        What Does an 807 Credit Score Mean?

        An 807 credit score is in the highest possible range on most credit-scoring systems, like the FICO® Score scale. Before delving into more detail on that, consider what credit scores are.

        Credit scores are three-digit numbers that are used by lenders to quickly assess your riskiness as a potential borrower. They’re based on the following factors:

        •   Payment history, which accounts for 35% of your score, tracks how often you’ve paid your existing debts on time.

        •   Amounts owed, which accounts for 30% or your score, tracks how much of your available credit you’re using. (This is also known as a utilization ratio.)

        •   Length of credit history, which accounts for 15% of your score, refers to the overall age of your credit accounts, with a longer lifespan counting toward a higher score.

        •   Credit mix, which accounts for 10% of your score, refers to the number of different types of credit (such as installment loans, credit cards, and mortgages) you have on your credit profile. A more diverse mix counts toward a higher score.

        •   New credit, which also accounts for 10% of your score, refers to how many new credit accounts you’ve opened in a short amount of time. Having too many hard inquiries or new credit accounts on your report can decrease your score.

        From these factors, credit scores are ranked from 300 (the lowest/poorest) to 850 (the highest/best). Scores are typically further broken down into the following credit rating scale:

        •   Poor credit: 300–579

        •   Fair credit: 580–669

        •   Good credit: 670–739

        •   Very good credit: 740–799

        •   Excellent credit: 800–850

        As you can see, a score of 807 puts you in the excellent category (sometimes called exceptional), which is the highest. With excellent credit, you can enjoy a high likelihood of success when applying for various types of loan products, along with the lowest interest rates available.

        A little more information about how your three digits compare: About 21% of Americans have a credit score over 800, and the average credit score in U.S. is currently 717.

        What Else Can You Get with an 807 Credit Score?

        With an 807 credit score, you will probably have a high likelihood of being approved for installment loans and lines of credit. You may also snag the most favorable rates and terms. Credit cards may be available with a rich array of benefits.

        But, before going into more detail about that, it’s worth noting that lenders may look at other factors as well. For instance, such attributes as your income, job history, and your debt-to-income ratio (how much you owe vs. your earning power) may matter, too.

        Can I Get a Credit Card with an 807 Credit Score?

        Short answer: Yes. If you have a credit score of 807, you’re probably a great candidate for many credit cards. Usually, a credit score of at least 670 is needed to qualify for an unsecured credit card. Since an 807 score is so much higher, you might be a good candidate for cards with low interest rates and top-notch perks, such as extensive travel benefits, cash back, and more.

        Of course, just because you can get a credit card doesn’t necessarily mean you should — at least without proper research and an understanding of how to use credit cards responsibly. Swiping is all too easy, and many people wind up buying more on credit than they can afford to repay in cash, leading to a revolving balance that can come with high interest rates and the potential to ding your credit score.

        For best results, pay off your entire credit card bill each and every month on or before the due date. That way, you’ll enjoy the benefits of the card without ever paying interest. (If your credit card balances do get higher than you’d like, you might consider a credit card consolidation loan, which combines multiple balances into a single installment loan, typically at a significantly lower interest rate.)

        Can I Get an Auto Loan with an 807 Credit Score?

        With a credit score of 807, you’re in fine shape to qualify for an auto loan. You can actually often get a car loan with a much lower credit score, but your interest rate will probably be much higher. For instance, with a credit score of 720 to 850, you might pay an interest rate of 7.062% according to Experian® as of late 2024. If your score is 590-619, that figure jumps to 16.32%. That will make a considerable difference in your monthly payments and the amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan.

        Also, while you’ll probably qualify for a car loan, remember that getting an auto loan has you paying interest on a depreciating asset. You’ll likely end up paying far more over the lifetime of the loan than the car’s initial value, let alone its value five or ten years down the line.

        Saving up a substantial down payment for the vehicle can reduce the amount of the loan, which can help decrease the total amount you’ll pay in interest over the loan’s lifetime.

        You might also consider buying a high-quality used car in cash, if you have enough money in savings to do so without dipping into your emergency fund.

        Recommended: How to Apply for a Personal Loan

        Can I Get a Mortgage with an 807 Credit Score?

        Ready to become a homeowner? People getting ready to take out a mortgage often talk about “getting their ducks in a row,” and if you have a credit score of 807, congratulations: That’s one duck taken care of. In other words, an 807 FICO score is likely to qualify you for a mortgage. Typically, for a conforming loan, you need a score of 620 or higher.

        With a score of 807, you are well-positioned to qualify for favorable interest rates for a conventional mortgage as well as for a jumbo loan, which means the principal is for a higher amount. Lenders usually look for a credit score of 720 or higher for a jumbo loan.

        Still, there are other considerations that your mortgage lender will look into when qualifying you for a loan. For example, your debt-to-income ratio, or DTI, is a measure of how much you owe each month in existing debt payments versus your gross income. Generally, mortgage lenders will want to see a DTI of 36% or less (some, however, will accept up to 43% or even higher).

        The underwriting process will also include a review of your employment history and existing assets, so when it comes to buying a house, it’s not just about building a strong credit score.

        Can I Get a Personal Loan With an 807 Credit Score?

        Personal loans are one of the most flexible financial products on the market. If you successfully apply, you can use the funds for just about anything you want. What’s more, they typically have a significantly lower interest rate than, say, charging something with your credit card.

        Among the uses of personal loans can be:

        •   Funding a wedding

        •   Paying for family planning costs

        •   Financing a vacation

        •   Taking care of a major medical bill

        •   Paying for a home renovation

        Because they’re not secured by collateral (like a house for a mortgage or a car for an auto loan), personal loans tend to have more stringent qualification requirements. However, with a credit score of 807, you should be in good shape to qualify, provided you also have a steady, reliable income and a low enough level of existing debt. Usually lenders like to see a credit score of at least 580 to qualify for a personal loan. With your score, you may unlock the most favorable interest rates and terms.

        A personal loan calculator can help you understand how much you’ll pay in interest over the entire lifetime of the loan. Be sure to look for one that allows you to make early repayments or additional principal payments without penalty.

        The Takeaway

        A credit score of 807 is not just good, it’s excellent. It falls into the highest possible range of credit score. Such a lofty score should help you qualify for credit, such as lines of credit and installment loans, with favorable interest rates and terms.

        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.

        SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

        View your rate

        SoFi Loan Products
        SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


        Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

        *Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

        Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


        Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

        Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.




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        Is 570 a Good Credit Score?


        Is 570 a Good Credit Score?

        570 credit score

        On this page:

          By Dan Miller

          A 570 credit score is considered “poor” and is significantly lower than the average credit score of 717. Borrowers with a 570 credit score may find it difficult to qualify for credit cards, mortgages, and other types of lending products. And if they are approved, it may only be for financial products with high interest rates and fees.

          Learn what a 570 credit score means, what loan products you may qualify for, and ways to improve your score.

          Key Points

          •   A 570 credit score is categorized as poor, making it difficult to secure loans or credit cards with favorable terms.

          •   Borrowers with this score often face higher interest rates and fees when approved for financial products.

          •   Secured credit cards, which require a deposit, can be a viable option for building credit.

          •   For auto loans, individuals may need to provide a larger down payment and will likely face higher interest rates.

          •   Improving a 570 credit score involves timely bill payments, low credit utilization, and regular credit report checks.

          What Does a 570 Credit Score Mean?

          As we mentioned, 570 is a poor credit score. A borrower with this score may have had issues managing their debt, or they could simply lack a credit history.

          Here’s how FICO® Score — which is used in the vast majority of lending decisions — ranks credit scores. The higher the number, the better the credit score.

          •   300-579: Poor

          •   580-669: Fair

          •   670-739: Good

          •   740-799: Very good

          •   800 or more: Excellent

          It’s important to keep an eye on your credit score. Not only does it indicate how likely you are to pay back a loan or credit on time, lenders often use it when making lending decisions, such as for personal loans.

          If you have a 570 credit score, lenders may see you as a risky borrower. You might find it challenging to qualify for lower interest rates and larger loan amounts. You might also have a difficult time getting approved for credit cards with lower APRs and attractive perks, like cash back.

          What Else Can You Get with a 570 Credit Score?

          A 570 credit score may negatively impact your ability to qualify for many loan programs or other types of credit. Let’s take a closer look at some different scenarios.

          Can I Get a Credit Card with a 570 Credit Score?

          While you may qualify for a credit card with a 570 credit score, your options might be limited. What’s more, some credit card issuers could also require you to pay extra fees or put down deposits on your card.

          You may want to look into cards designed for applicants with lower credit scores. A secured credit card, for example, requires a security deposit that acts as collateral in case the cardholder defaults on their payments. When managed responsibly, these cards can be an effective way to build credit.

          If you have high-interest credit card debt, a credit card consolidation loan could be worth exploring. You can transfer multiple balances to a single loan — ideally one with a better rate — which could reduce monthly payments and streamline bill paying.

          Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 570 Credit Score?

          Typically, you need a credit score of 600 to qualify for an auto loan, but some lenders may be willing to work with buyers who have a lower credit score. If you are approved for a loan with a 570 credit score, you could be charged a higher interest rate or have to put down a higher down payment than borrowers with better credit scores.

          Can I Get a Mortgage with a 570 Credit Score?

          Getting a mortgage with a 570 credit score isn’t impossible, but be prepared to have fewer options. You may also have to pay a higher interest rate and put down a larger deposit. For example, borrowers with a credit score as low as 500 might qualify for an FHA loan, but they’ll likely need to have a down payment of at least 10%.

          Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 570 Credit Score?

          It’s possible that you will be able to qualify for some personal loan options with a 570 credit score. However, as with other types of financial products, you may have fewer options to choose from than a borrower with a better credit score.

          One of the main metrics lenders examine when reviewing a personal loan application is the applicant’s credit score. Typically, the lower your credit score, the more challenging it is to get approved for a loan. And if you are approved, you could pay higher interest rates.

          A personal loan calculator can help you explore options for your specific financial situation and look for potential ways to save on interest.

          How to Build Your Credit Score

          If your credit score isn’t where you want it to be, there are steps you can take to improve it before you apply for a loan or credit card. Here are some credit-building strategies to consider:

          •   Pay your bills on time.

          •   Keep your credit utilization low.

          •   Keep older accounts open.

          •   Apply for new credit only when needed.

          •   Regularly check your credit reports for errors and fix any inaccuracies you see.

          The Takeaway

          Is 570 a good credit score? According to FICO, it’s in the “poor” range. Many lenders use an applicant’s FICO Score as a major determining factor when deciding whether to approve a loan application. With a 570 credit score, you may be approved for some lending products, but you may be charged a higher interest rate and have less-desirable terms than borrowers with better credit scores. If your score is on the lower end, it may be a good idea to work on improving your credit score before you apply for a credit card or personal loan.

          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.


          SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.

          View your rate

          SoFi Loan Products
          SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


          Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.



          Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

          Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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