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SMB Business Line of Credit

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BUSINESS LINE OF CREDIT

A line of credit could offer flexible financing for your business.


Find out if a business line of credit or other funding
options may be available to you—all with a single
search on our marketplace.




Search for financing

(without impacting your credit score)

SoFi’s marketplace is owned and operated by SoFi Lending Corp. Expand for Advertising Disclosures.


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Advertising Disclosures: The
preliminary options presented on this
site are from lenders and providers
that pay SoFi compensation for
marketing their products and services.
This affects whether a product or
service is presented on this site. SoFi
does not include all products and
services in the market. All rates, terms,
and conditions vary by provider. See
SoFi Lending Corp. licensing
information below.


{/* Why shop SoFi’s marketplace for business Financing */}

Why shop SoFi’s marketplace
for business financing?

  • One simple search.

    Explore your options in one place with no impact to your credit score.

  • Get up to $2 million.

    Large or small, grow your business with funding that’s a fit for you.

  • Fast funding.

    Receive funds as soon as the same day you’re approved.*

  • Save time.

    Shop for quotes in minutes with just one
    simple search.


Search for financing

{/* See if a business line of creit could be an option for you */}

See if a business line of credit could be an option
for you.


  • Shop in one place.

    Use our marketplace search to look for small business financing quotes.


  • Discover your options.

    Financing quotes may include lines of credit, term loans, and other options.


  • Get funded.

    You could receive funds as soon as the same day you’re approved.*


Search for financing

{/* What is a small business line of credit? */}

What is a small business line of credit?

A small business line of credit, like a small business loan, is a flexible way
to cover short-term business expenses
as needed. A line of credit works more like a credit card than a traditional loan. You can access financing through revolving credit up to an approved limit, rather than receiving an initial lump sum. You then make monthly payments on what you borrow and are only charged interest on what you owe.

With SoFi’s marketplace, one search could match you with a provider
and let you see if they offer a business line of credit.


Search for financing

(without impacting your credit score)

{/* Chart- Whats the difference between secured and unsecured business lines of credit */}

What’s the difference between secured and unsecured business lines of credit?

collateral value, but often higher’, ‘Usually easier’]}
competitorCards={[
[
‘Unsecured’,
‘No’,
‘Often higher’,
‘Frequently shorter-term; perhaps revolving’,
‘Typically smaller due
to risk for the lender’,
‘Usually harder’,
],
]}
customTitle={“Secured”}
cardTitleClassName=”bg-gray-2″
/>

{/*Revolving versus nonrevolving lines of credit*/}

Revolving versus nonrevolving lines of credit.

When you choose a business line of credit, you may be presented with
two options:
a revolving or nonrevolving line of credit.


{/* Revolving lines of credit */}

Revolving lines of credit

Revolving credit refers to a line of credit that you can access over and over again, subject to a total credit limit. Credit cards are one type of revolving credit.

Usually, revolving lines of credit have a higher interest rate and generally lower credit limit. The risk is typically higher for the lender. Once the credit is fully repaid, the account stays open and you can continue to use it as needed.


{/* Nonrevolving lines of credit */}

Nonrevolving lines of credit

Nonrevolving credit allows you to access a specific amount of money
up front
. Then you pay down your balance until it’s gone.

Usually, nonrevolving lines of credit have a lower interest rate and generally higher credit limit. The risk is typically higher for the borrower. Once the credit is fully repaid, the account closes and the borrower will need to reapply if they still need the credit line.

{/*FAQs*/}

FAQs


What is a business line of credit?

A business line of credit, sometimes called a commercial line of credit, like a small business loan is a flexible way to cover business expenses like working capital, bills, inventory, or any other business needs.

Unlike a business loan, where you receive a lump-sum disbursement upon account opening, small business lines of credit provide as-needed access to financing through a revolving line, similar to a credit card. Monthly payments are made on what you borrow. 


How does a business line of credit work?

A small business line of credit is similar to a credit card, but interest rates are usually lower and the funds must be used for business purposes. Like a credit card, you can borrow up to your approved credit limit and are only charged interest on what you borrow. There is a minimum repayment each month.

Once you repay the borrowed funds, you can continue to draw on the line up to your approved credit limit. A small business line of credit is subject to annual credit review.


What can a business line of credit be used for?

Once you open your line of credit, you can use the money for almost any business expense. Most business lines of credit are used for short-term needs such as buying inventory, managing cash flow, or covering payroll. There is a minimum repayment plus interest every month, just as a credit card company would charge.


What’s the difference between secured and unsecured lines of credit?


A secured line of credit uses an asset you already have, like company real estate, as collateral to secure the loan. If you default on payments, the lender has the right to seize that piece of collateral to offset their losses. In general, a secured line of credit puts the lender at less risk, but can result in higher approval rates or more favorable terms for you, such as lower interest rates.

With an unsecured line of credit, the lender takes more risk. If you default, there is no collateral to recoup the losses. Since this puts the lender at greater risk, an unsecured line of credit may be more challenging to obtain and carry higher interest rates.


What’s required to obtain a small business line of credit?

To obtain a business line of credit, lenders are going to evaluate your business financials, including your business credit score, monthly (or yearly) revenue, and your time in business. Most lenders will want to see a minimum credit score of 600, annual revenues of $50,000 or more, and at least six months of business history. However, individual lender requirements may vary, so it is beneficial to shop your options.


Can I get a business line of credit to start a business?

It’s uncommon. Lenders generally prefer at least two years of operation and steady revenue before approving a business line of credit.


How fast can you get a business line of credit?

It varies by lender and their underwriting processes, with some applicants getting approved and receiving funds in less than a week, and others waiting for up to a month.


Can I get a business credit line increase?

You can ask for a credit line increase after the account has been open for at least a few months. However, you may not be approved if any payments have been late.


Can I get a business line of credit with bad credit?

Most lenders are wary of an applicant with bad credit because they fear you won’t be able to pay back any capital. However, if you have been in business for several years and can show consistent revenue, you could qualify.


Does SoFi offer a credit card for businesses?

SoFi now offers business credit cards to qualified applicants, pending credit approval.


See all FAQs


{/* What is SoFi’s marketplace? */}

What is
SoFi’s marketplace?

SoFi’s marketplace is our way to help
members shop for business financing. While SoFi doesn’t provide business
loans directly, our marketplace may
help you quickly find the financing
solutions you need.
You could find
quotes from providers in minutes with
one easy search.


Search for financing


{/* horizon */}

{/* Search business financing options in minutes*/}

Search business financing options in minutes.

Your time matters. That’s why we
made it fast and easy to look for
quotes in minutes.


Search for financing

(without impacting your credit score)


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Is 685 a Good Credit Score?


Is 685 a Good Credit Score?

685 credit score

On this page:

    By Laurel Tincher

    (Last Updated – 05/2024)

    A 685 credit score falls into the “good” range, albeit toward the low end. With this score, you can likely qualify for credit card and loan offers, but perhaps not at the most favorable rates or with the best perks.

    Your credit score is a reflection of your creditworthiness and impacts how comfortable lenders are giving you access to additional credit. Your score expresses such variables as whether you pay what you owe on time, how long a borrowing history you have, and whether you are currently trying to access a considerable amount of credit.

    Here, learn more about a 685 credit score and what you can typically qualify for with that number.

    What Does a 685 Credit Score Mean?

    Situated in the middle of the credit scoring range, a score of 685 represents a creditworthiness level that might impact several areas of an individual’s financial circumstances. A score of 685 usually falls into the acceptable to good range, which is not excellent. It implies that the person has a track record of responsible credit management; however, there may have been some difficulties or inconsistencies along the road.

    There are a few different ways to gauge creditworthiness, including various credit scores vs. FICO scores, but FICO® is the most popular system. Here’s how credit scores rank on that gradient:

    •   300-579: Poor

    •   580-669: Fair

    •   670-739: Good

    •   740-799: Very good

    •   800-850: Excellent (or Exceptional)

    As you see, a credit score of 685 puts you in the “good” range, but toward the lower end. It can also be worth noting that the average credit score in America last year was 715.

    A 685 credit score could be interpreted by lenders as a sign of moderate risk, which may have an impact on the terms and conditions that are offered for credit cards, mortgages, and loans. While a 685 credit score might not be high enough to qualify for the best interest rates or loan conditions, it still offers chances to get credit.

    💡 Quick Tip: A low-interest personal loan from SoFi can help you consolidate your debts, lower your monthly payments, and get you out of debt sooner.

    What Can You Get with a 685 Credit Score?

    People who have a credit score of 685 can qualify for a number of financial opportunities, but they will likely have some restrictions. Even with less favorable interest rates, a 685 credit score can still be used to qualify for a variety of credit products. These could include credit cards, personal loans, and auto loans.

    In addition, a good credit score might help when applying for a rental property or utilities. Your application may be given preference over those who have a bad credit score.

    Can I Get a Credit Card with a 685 Credit Score?

    A credit score of 685 is generally high enough to get a credit card application approved, but the available choices may be more limited than for individuals with higher scores. For example, those with credit scores over 700 may be offered a lower annual percentage rate (APR) and receive richer rewards.

    That said, numerous lenders cater especially to those with fair to good credit. Even though these cards may have slightly higher interest rates and smaller credit limits, they nonetheless offer the chance to establish credit and gain access to useful financial resources.

    In addition, for people with poorer credit scores who want to build their credit, secured credit cards, which require a security deposit, are a good option. Finding the right credit card option for your needs in terms of fees, interest rates, and rewards is crucial, so it’s important to research and compare the possibilities.

    With any kind of credit card, it’s important to use credit responsibly since, with high interest rates, debt can snowball.

    💡 Quick Tip: Swap high-interest debt for a lower-interest loan, and save money on your monthly payments. Find out why SoFi credit card consolidation loans are so popular.

    Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 685 Credit Score?

    While the terms offered to borrowers with higher credit scores may be more attractive, a credit score of 685 is sufficient to get a car loan. Many lenders accept applications from people with fair to good credit. One might be able to get an auto loan with fair terms and interest rates even with a 685 credit score, particularly if their debt-to-income ratio is under control and income is steady.

    However, in comparison to customers with excellent credit, a person with a 685 credit score can face somewhat higher interest rates or shorter loan durations with higher monthly payments. Consider these current numbers from MyFICO:

    •   The average APR on a 60-month new auto loan for $50,000 for someone with a FICO Score of 720 or higher is 7.5%.

    •   With a credit score between 690 and 719, it’s 8.64%.

    •   For those with a score between 660 to 689, the average APR is 10.5%.

    In other words, yes, you can secure a loan, but you will likely pay more for the privilege. To get the best terms possible, compare offers from several lenders. A bigger down payment or bringing in a cosigner can also help increase the chances of getting a favorable auto loan with a credit score of 685.

    Can I Get a Mortgage with a 685 Credit Score?

    Getting a mortgage with a credit score of 685 is definitely possible, but there are some things to take into account. Even though some lenders might require a higher credit score in order to give the best loan terms, many provide mortgage options for borrowers with fair to good credit.

    Borrowers with credit scores in the mid-600s may have easier access to government-backed loan programs. FHA loans, for instance, typically grant loans to those with scores of 580 or higher (if your score is between 500 and 579, you may still qualify with a larger down payment). USDA loans usually require a 620 credit score or higher.

    Lenders will also take other factors into account when assessing a mortgage application, like debt-to-income ratio and work history. Finding the best mortgage program for one’s financial circumstances might be made easier if they work with an experienced mortgage broker or lender.

    Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 685 Credit Score?

    People with a credit score of 685 can usually qualify for personal loans from a variety of lenders. This can be a good source of funding for a variety of needs, such as paying for unexpected (and expensive) dental work, hosting a family reunion at the beach, or finally updating your kitchen.

    As with other loans, it’s likely that the best terms and interest rates will go to those with excellent credit scores. Depending on the lender and one’s full financial profile, you may be faced with slightly longer loan terms or higher interest rates if your credit score is 685.

    Individuals can locate the most affordable rates and terms by shopping around and comparing offers from several lenders. Proving that one has a steady income and a low debt-to-income ratio will help with getting a personal loan with better terms.

    Recommended: Average Personal Loan Interest Rates and What Affects Them

    Takeaway

    A 685 credit score qualifies as “good.” While it may not grant access to the best terms on financial products, it is usually high enough to qualify for credit cards, mortgages, auto loans, and other forms of credit. Those with a 685 credit score might have to deal with slightly higher loan rates and more stringent criteria than those with higher numbers. However, after shopping around, they will probably find an offer that suits their needs.

    If you need access to funds, think twice before breaking out your plastic.

    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


    Photo credit: iStock/izusek

    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.


    SOPL-Q224-1842126-V1

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    Is 661 a Good Credit Score?


    Is 661 a Good Credit Score?

    661 credit score

    On this page:

      By Melissa Brock

      (Last Updated – 05/2024)

      A 661 is not a good credit score, but it’s not necessarily a bad one either. It’s considered “fair,” which means you represent a moderate risk to lenders. With a 661 score, you can still qualify for loans and credit cards. but you may face higher interest rates and less favorable loan terms than borrowers with “good” or better credit.

      Read on for a closer look at how your credit rating compares to the average borrower in the U.S., plus what kinds of mortgages, car loans, personal loans, and credit cards you may be able to get with a 661 credit score.

      What Does a 661 Credit Score Mean?

      To understand what a 661 credit score means, it helps to understand how credit scores work and the difference between FICO vs. other credit scores.

      Lenders use credit scores — which typically range between 300 and 850 — to determine how likely a borrower is to make on-time payments on their debts. Your credit score is based on information contained in your credit reports, which detail your history managing and repaying debt, including credit cards, loans, and other bills.

      You have three credit reports, one each from the three credit bureaus — Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. You also have multiple credit scores, not just one. That’s because scores can be calculated using different scoring models, such as FICO®, VantageScore®, or a lender’s own proprietary algorithm.

      The most widely used credit scores, however, are FICO scores. Here’s a look at the credit score ranges and what they mean according to FICO.

      FICO Score Range

      Rating

      Meaning

      Less than 580 Poor These scores sit far below the average credit score (715), demonstrating that you pose a risk to lenders.
      580-669 Fair These credit scores are below the average credit score, though many lenders approve loans in this range.
      670-739 Good These scores are at or above the average U.S. credit score.
      740-799 Very good These scores are above the average credit score, demonstrating your dependability as a borrower.
      800+ Excellent These scores are well above the average score and clearly demonstrate that you’re a reliable borrower.

      What Can You Get with a 661 Credit Score?

      A fair credit score means that you have a 28% statistical likelihood of becoming seriously delinquent on a loan or credit card in the future. While some lenders may decide not to lend to you, you can likely get a credit card, auto loan, mortgage, or personal loan with a 661 credit score. Let’s look into your potential opportunities for each.

      Can I Get a Credit Card with a 661 Credit Score?

      With a credit score of 661, you can likely qualify for a credit card, but your options may be limited. You can probably get a traditional (i.e., unsecured) credit card with a relatively high interest rate and a low credit limit. You’ll have an easier time getting a secured credit card. Here’s a look at the difference between secured vs, unsecured credit cards.

      •   Unsecured credit cards: Unsecured credit cards don’t require a security deposit and generally offer better perks and rewards, and lower fees and interest rates, than secured cards. Unsecured credit cards typically require a credit score of 550 to 750. You’ll need to be in the upper end of that range to qualify for the best rates and top rewards credit cards.

      •   Secured credit cards: Secured credit cards require you to make a cash deposit — usually equal to your credit limit — when you open the account. The money then acts as collateral every time you make a purchase. This lowers the risk to the lender because if you don’t pay your bill, they can recoup their losses from your deposit. Many secured credit cards don’t require a credit check.

      Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 661 Credit Score?

      Yes, it’s possible to get an auto loan with a credit score of 661. While you may not qualify for the most favorable rates, you should still be able to find lenders willing to work with you. Keep in mind, though, that lenders will likely look at more than just your credit score. Other factors — such as your income, debt-to-income ratio, and a lender’s specific requirements — play a role in determining whether you can qualify for auto financing and at what rate and terms.

      It’s a good idea to shop around and compare offers from different lenders to find the best deal. You may find that making a larger down payment or opting for a shorter loan term can help mitigate the impact of a fair credit score.

      Can I Get a Mortgage with a 661 Credit Score?

      Yes, you can generally get a mortgage and buy a house with a 661 credit score. In fact, you can likely qualify for a variety of different types of mortgages, though probably not a jumbo loan. Here’s a look at common kinds of mortgage loans and the minimum credit score you might need for each one.

      Conventional loan: A conventional loan is any mortgage loan that is not insured or guaranteed by the government. These loans typically require a 620 minimum credit score.

      •   Jumbo loan: A jumbo loan is a loan that goes beyond the limits of those set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency ($806,500), and can go as high as $1,209,750 in high-cost areas. These loans typically require a 700 minimum credit score.

      •   FHA loan: An FHA loan is a loan backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). FHA loans protect the lender against losses if you were to stop making payments on your loan. When you put 10% down for an FHA loan, you’ll need to meet a 500 minimum credit score.

      •   VA loan: The Department of Veterans Affairs backs VA loans and sets the requirements for service members, veterans, and eligible spouses. You’ll need to have a 620 minimum credit score for a VA loan.

      •   USDA loans: A USDA loan is a no-down payment loan backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help first-time homebuyers purchase homes in rural or suburban areas. This type of loan requires a minimum 640 credit score.

      Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 661 Credit Score?

      Yes, it’s possible to get a personal loan with a credit score of 661. However, your credit score is just one factor that lenders consider when evaluating your loan application. Other things, such as your income, employment history, and debt-to-income ratio will also play a role in the lender’s decision and the terms of the personal loan.

      With a credit score of 661, you may not qualify for the most favorable personal loan rates or terms, but there are lenders who specialize in working with individuals with fair credit. It’s a good idea to shop around and compare offers from different lenders to find the best option for your financial situation. Keep in mind that some lenders may require collateral or a cosigner if your credit score is “fair” or lower.

      Once you qualify, a personal loan provides a lump sum of cash up front that can be used for virtually any purpose, including credit card consolidation, home improvements, and large purchases.

      Takeaway

      A 661 credit score is neither good nor bad, but generally considered fair by lenders. You can get a credit card and different types of loans with this credit score, but you may not get the best interest rates and loan terms.

      Fortunately, you’re not far off from FICO’s “good” credit rating (670-739). Taking some simple steps — like making on-time credit payments, catching up on past-due accounts, and paying down revolving account balances — can help improve your credit profile and allow you to access lending products with lower rates in the future.

      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


      Photo credit: iStock/MilanMarkovic

      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.


      Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
      Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

      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.


      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.



      SOPL-Q224-1841115-V1

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      Is 694 a Good Credit Score?


      Is 694 a Good Credit Score?

      694 credit score

      On this page:

        By Timothy Moore

        (Last Updated – 03/2024)

        Establishing and building credit is an important part of everyday life. You need a strong credit score to buy a house, get a car, and even pay for groceries on a credit card. But if your credit score is hovering just below 700, how can you tell if it’s strong enough?

        Fortunately, a 694 credit score is considered “good” per FICO®, the country’s most popular scoring model. This score allows borrowers to more easily access competitive rates for credit cards, mortgages, personal loans, and auto loans. Keep reading to learn more about what to expect with this credit score.

        What Does a 694 Credit Score Mean?

        A credit score is a complex calculation that shows lenders how likely you are to repay your debts on time and in full. The higher the score, the better you are perceived as a borrower — and thus more likely to qualify for loans at more competitive rates.

        The two main credit scoring models are FICO and VantageScore®, which use proprietary algorithms to calculate your credit score. Both FICO and VantageScore have credit score ranges between 300 and 850. How they calculate credit scores differs, though both analyze elements like credit utilization, length of credit history, on-time payments, and credit mix.

        Because FICO is the more popular model, we’ll look at the credit score ranges in that model:

        •   800 to 850: Exceptional

        •   740 to 799: Very Good

        •   670 to 739: Good

        •   580 to 669: Fair

        •   300 to 579: Poor

        As you can see, a 694 credit score means you’re in the “good” range in FICO’s scoring model and thus likely to qualify for most loans — and at decent rates.

        💡 Quick Tip: Before choosing a personal loan, ask about the lender’s fees: origination, prepayment, late fees, etc. One question can save you many dollars.

        What Can You Get with a 694 Credit Score?

        A 694 FICO score means you still have room for improvement, but generally speaking, you should have no problem qualifying for various loan types. For instance, you should expect to find at least some lenders willing to offer you:

        •   Credit cards

        •   Mortgages

        •   Personal loans

        •   Auto loans

        A 694 credit score is somewhere in the middle of FICO’s “good” range. If you’re able to build your credit score to at least 740 (the bottom of the “very good” range), you may qualify with lenders that have more stringent requirements and offer better rates. For instance, you may more easily qualify for a rewards credit card with cash back or travel points.

        Recommended: FICO Score vs. Credit Score

        Can I Get a Credit Card with a 694 Credit Score?

        A credit score of 694 is more than enough to get a credit card. In fact, the minimum credit score needed for a credit card is 300 — the lowest credit score possible. Even borrowers without any credit history at all can qualify for a credit card, though these are typically secured credit cards with limited perks, a low credit limit, and a security deposit required.

        To get a standard credit card, you’ll typically need a score of 600 or above. At 694, you may even qualify for a cash-back credit card or travel credit card, meaning you can take advantage of rewards for everyday spending.

        Plus, responsibly using one or more credit cards can help build your credit score even more. If possible, experts advise you to keep your credit utilization low on credit cards (below 30%) and pay them off in full every month to avoid accruing interest.

        💡 Quick Tip: If you’ve got high-interest credit card debt, a personal loan is one way to get control of it. But you’ll want to make sure the loan’s interest rate is much lower than the credit cards’ rates — and that you can make the monthly payments.

        Can I Get a Mortgage with a 694 Credit Score?

        As long as you can meet the other requirements (such as the down payment), you can generally get a mortgage with a 694 credit score. According to Experian, 29% of people with a 694 credit score have a mortgage loan.

        A credit score of 694 is well above the minimum credit score needed to buy a house with a conventional mortgage (620). Those with lower credit scores may even be eligible through government-backed loans, including FHA loans and USDA loans.

        Bear in mind that, while a 694 credit score is usually more than enough to qualify for a mortgage, lenders will consider other factors as well, such as:

        •   Your current income

        •   Your current debts

        •   The size of your down payment

        Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 694 Credit Score?

        As with credit cards, there’s no real minimum credit score needed to get a personal loan, though you’ll have more options at lower annual percentage rates (APRs) if you have a stronger credit score.

        A 694 credit score may not get you the lowest rate advertised by lenders, but you’ll still usually avoid the high end of a lender’s APR range. Plus, responsibly repaying your personal loan can help build your score, meaning you may qualify for better rates next time, whether you’re seeking a credit card consolidation loan or a personal loan to pay off a major dental bill.

        In addition to a strong credit score, lenders may have other personal loan requirements for approval, such as:

        •   Collateral (for secured personal loans)

        •   Proof of income and employment

        •   A debt-to-income ratio below a certain threshold

        Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 694 Credit Score?

        A 694 credit score is generally a good sign that you’ll qualify for an auto loan, but note that auto lenders often use a different credit scoring model, such as the FICO Auto Score or VantageScore 3.0 or 4.0. These models are slightly different, with distinct algorithms and different ranges (FICO Auto Score is 250 to 900, for instance).

        While there’s no minimum credit score to buy a car, technically speaking, borrowers with poor credit may be limited to low borrowing amounts and at high interest rates. Borrowers with good credit, like those with a 694 credit score, should have more luck. According to Experian, 42% of individuals with a 694 credit score have an auto loan.

        And with a credit score of 694, financing isn’t your only option. Leasing is also on the table: 680 is usually the magic credit score to lease a car.

        Takeaway

        A 694 credit score is considered a “good” score in the FICO scoring model. With a score of 694, you should have no problem getting approved for various types of loans, including credit cards, personal loans, mortgages, and car loans. Just remember that lenders take other factors — such as your income and other debts — into account when approving your application and setting rates.

        If you build your score over time, you might move into “very good” or even “exceptional” territory. With that kind of credit score, you could expect even better rates and lower fees the next time you need to borrow money.

        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.

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        FAQ

        Is 694 a good credit score?

        According to the FICO credit score system, a good credit score is between 670 and 739. So, yes, a 694 credit score falls squarely in that category.

        Can I buy a house with a 694 credit score?

        Yes, you should be able to buy a house with a 694 credit score. In general, the credit score requirement for a conventional mortgage is 620. A 694 credit score means you should qualify — and at competitive interest rates.

        Keep in mind, you’ll also need to meet income and debt requirements and be able to save up enough money for a down payment.

        Can I buy a car with a 694 credit score?

        While auto lenders typically use a specialized scoring model for auto loans (such as the FICO Auto Score), a 694 credit score is usually more than enough to buy a car. The higher your credit score, the more likely you are to be approved — and at a lower interest rate.


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        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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