By Ashley Kilroy

(Last Updated – 12/2025)

A 735 credit score is considered a good score in the lending industry and can increase your access to financing, credit cards, and affordable interest rates. This credit score likely comes from a track record of consistent, healthy habits with debt. As a result, lenders typically feel comfortable with borrowers in this range, sometimes offering them unique benefits and more affordable terms to earn their business.

Whether you’re looking for a mortgage or a credit card with an increased spending limit, a 735 FICO® Score can open financial doors for you.

Learn more about what this score can help you qualify for and how you might further build it below.

What Does a 735 Credit Score Mean?

Lenders consider a 735 FICO Score to be a “good” credit score. Credit score ranges are usually from 300 to 850, with higher scores indicating better creditworthiness. Here’s a breakdown of credit score ranges:

•   Poor: 300-579

•   Fair: 580-669

•   Good: 670-739

•   Very Good: 740-799

•   Excellent: 800-850

A FICO credit score of 735 falls within the “good” range, meaning you have a solid credit history. Lenders often offer favorable terms, such as lower interest rates, to individuals with scores in this range. It’s also bordering on the “very good” category, meaning you could have an even better standing credit-wise by building your score by five points.

How to Get a 735 Credit Score

Borrowers can work toward a “good” credit score of 735 by practicing some healthy financial practices:

•   Payment history: Timely payment of bills, including credit cards, loans, and other debts, is crucial. Late payments or defaults can damage your score.

•   Credit utilization: This is the ratio of your credit card balances to your credit limits. Maintaining no more than a 30% credit utilization rate can demonstrate responsible credit management. For instance, if you have a credit card with a limit of $10,000, spending $3,000 or less monthly with it can help build your credit score.

•   Length of credit history: The longer your credit history, the better. For example, getting a credit card at 20 years old, paying it on time, and keeping the account open can be a positive vs. closing a line of credit you don’t use that often.

•   Credit mix: A diverse mix of credit types, including credit cards, loans, and mortgages, can have a positive impact on your credit profile.

•   New credit: Be cautious about applying for too many new credit accounts within a short timeframe. It could temporarily ding your credit score and is generally seen as risky behavior by lenders.

What Else Can You Get with a 735 Credit Score?

Having a 735 credit score can provide various financial advantages and open up opportunities. Here’s an explanation of the benefits that may be associated with having and maintaining a good credit score:

•   Loan access: Lenders use credit scores to assess risk when borrowers apply for loans. A 735 FICO Score indicates responsible credit behavior, potentially making you more likely to be approved for loans, including mortgages, car loans, and personal loans.

•   Preferred interest rates: A good credit score may translate into lower interest rates because lenders may perceive less risk in lending. In essence, lenders compete for low-risk borrowers and use more affordable interest rates to attract the most reliable borrowers. This dynamic could work in your favor, ultimately saving you money over the life of the loan.

•   Favorable loan terms: Borrowers with a credit score of 735 may qualify for more favorable loan terms. For example, you might enjoy waived fees, increasing loan affordability.

•   Expanded access to credit: A good credit score can give you access to a wider range of credit options. For instance, you might receive offers for more generous credit card rewards or for increased lines of credit.

•   Stronger tenant profile: Landlords often check the credit histories of potential tenants to assess their financial responsibility. A good credit score can enhance your attractiveness as a tenant, making it easier to rent an apartment.

•   More affordable utility installation: Some utility companies may check your credit score before providing services. A good credit score can allow you to avoid security deposits for cable or internet equipment.

Can I Get a Credit Card with a 735 Credit Score?

When you apply for a credit card, the company typically reviews your credit as part of how they determine if they want to do business with you. Often, credit card issuers are looking for a score of 670 or higher.

A 735 FICO credit score demonstrates a history of responsible borrowing and spending. As a result, you may qualify for many cards and rewards programs with this credit score. Your score may also help you obtain lower interest rates and expanded credit limits.

Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 735 Credit Score?

Auto lenders generally prefer borrowers with credit scores of at least 661, with higher scores resulting in better terms and rates. Therefore, a 735 FICO Score will qualify you for an auto loan and may help you lower your interest rate.

Remember, the rest of your financial circumstances, including your monthly income and ability to make a down payment, can affect what kind of auto loan you receive.

Can I Get a Mortgage with a 735 Credit Score?

A 735 credit score exceeds the usual qualification standards for all mortgage types. As a result, you can qualify for a mortgage with that score if you meet the other standards, including a debt-to-income ratio under 36%, a consistent employment history, and a house within your borrowing limit.

This credit score can help you get better interest rates because it surpasses typical minimum scores for all mortgages, including:

•   620 for conventional loans

•   700 for jumbo loans

•   500 with FHA loans with a 10% down payment or 580 with a 3.5% down payment

•   620 for VA loans

•   580 for USDA loans

Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 735 Credit Score?

Lenders prefer borrowers with credit scores of at least 670 for personal loans. So, a 735 credit score can qualify you for lower terms and more favorable rates. However, like other loan types, personal loans require a robust financial profile. Borrowers also need a low debt-to-income ratio and steady monthly income to qualify.

The Takeaway

A credit score of 735 is in the “good” range of FICO Scores, helping to position you to borrow at favorable rates and potentially qualify for numerous loan types. The path to achieving and maintaining a 735 credit score involves cultivating healthy financial habits, encompassing timely payments, judicious credit utilization, a diverse credit mix, and applying to new credit sparingly.

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 Austin Kilham

(Last Updated – 12/2025)

A 680 credit score does indeed qualify as a good credit score. With a three-digit score between 670 and 739, you are classified as in the “good“ range, according to FICO^®, which produces the most commonly used credit scores by lenders.

A credit score of 680 will likely qualify you for many options when it comes to loans and lines of credit. Here’s a closer look at what a score of 680 could mean for you and your ability to secure different kinds of credit.

What Does a 680 Credit Score Mean?

A credit score of 680 puts you in the “good” category per FICO credit scores. Above that is “very good” at 740 to 799, and “exceptional” at 800 to 850.

At its most basic, a credit score is a numerical representation of your credit history. It gives weight to factors such as length of credit history, how much credit you are currently using, whether you pay your bills on time, how many different types of accounts you maintain, and whether you’re actively seeking new credit.

When you apply for a new loan or line of credit, here are some considerations:

•   Your potential lender will take a close look at your score to determine your creditworthiness. They’re looking for higher scores, which demonstrate that you’ve been responsible with credit in the past, paying bills across multiple accounts on time.

•   Borrowers with numbers in the higher credit score ranges are potentially less risky to lenders. And as a result, lenders are more likely to offer them lower interest rates and more favorable terms.

•   Lenders typically see borrowers with low scores as potential risks. They’re worried these individuals may be more likely to default on their loan, a process that is costly for lenders as they try to recoup their losses.

•   Lenders may choose not to extend credit to borrowers with low scores, especially those with “poor” scores of less than 580.

•   When lenders do offer credit to individuals with a lower or what you might call bad credit score, they may offset their risk with higher interest rates and fee. This increases the cost of borrowing.

How do you compare to the rest of the nation? Most people in the US have a credit score between 600 and 750, and the average score is 715. Though a credit score of 680 is a bit less than average, it does still qualify you as a “prime” borrower. In other words, lenders may believe you’re likely to pay your bills on time and pay off your loan in full.

What Else Can You Get with a 680 Credit Score?

With a credit score of 680, there will likely be a wide range of loans available to you. In addition, you may favorably impress landlords who check your credit score when you apply to be a tenant.

Can I Get a Credit Card with a 680 Credit Score?

With a credit score of 680, you’ll likely qualify for a broad range of credit cards. There may be only a few cards that are reserved for individuals with excellent credit. In addition, the higher your score, the more likely you are to qualify for lower rates and enhanced rewards, such as points, miles, and/or cash back.

Used wisely, credit cards can help you continue to build your credit. If not, they can cause you to take on more debt and potentially hurt your credit score.

•   Credit cards are a form of revolving credit that allow you to carry balance from month to month. In return, they may charge very high interest rates. These hover around 24% on average, and can make borrowing very expensive.

•   You can avoid interest payments by paying your bill in full every month, which can help build credit. If you fall behind, however, you’ll carry a balance and owe interest.

•   Beware: Credit card interest compounds. If you continue to carry a balance only making minimum payments, you’ll begin to owe interest on the interest you’ve already accrued, causing your debt to grow.

•   If you’re unable to pay off your card and you default on your loan, you could hurt your credit score.

Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 680 Credit Score?

With a score of 680, you’ll likely qualify for an auto loan. In fact, 35.19% of new loans went to prime borrowers in 2025, according to Experian. Compare that to the 10.86% of loans that went to near-prime borrowers (those with a score of 601 to 660) and 5.50% of loans that went to subprime borrowers, meaning those with scores between 501 and 600. Prime borrowers, by the way, are considered those with credit scores of 661 to 780.

As a prime borrower, you’ll also likely have access to some of the best interest rates. On average, prime borrowers paid 6.78% in interest on new loans in the period most recently reviewed. Super-prime borrowers (those with scores of 781 or higher) did better, with average rates of 5.27%, while subprime borrowers were charged a much higher rate of 13.38% on average.

Remember to shop around from various lenders to find the best way to finance a car purchase. Building your credit score could help you qualify for lower, super-prime rates.

Can I Get a Mortgage with a 680 Credit Score?

If you’re seeking a mortgage loan, a credit score of 680 should provide a host of options. You will likely qualify for most conventional loans, which typically require a credit score of 620 or higher. These are loans that are not insured or guaranteed by the federal government and are typically what you’ll find at most banks.

Among conventional loans, you’ll likely find a variety of options, including fixed- and adjustable-rate interest rates, as well as different options for length of the loan term.

Since lenders are taking on the risk, they look for individuals with higher credit scores. They’ll also take into account the size of the down payment you can make. The higher the amount, the less risk they need to take on, and the lower your interest rates may be.

Individuals with 680 credit scores should also easily qualify for government-back loans, such as Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans. These usually require a credit score of 580 with a 3.5% down payment. Or, if you put 10% down, you may qualify with a lower score. Homes purchased through this program must be your primary residence.

If you’ve served in the armed forces, you may qualify for a VA loan. These are offered through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs and usually require a credit score of 580 to qualify.

Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 680 Credit Score?

A personal loan is a lump sum payment you agree to pay back in monthly installments. There are few restrictions for how personal loans can be used. For example, they could be used for credit card consolidation, home improvements, even the cost of a wedding celebration.

Borrowers with good credit scores will likely be able to secure a personal loan. And in some cases, a personal loan may be cheaper than other forms of credit, such as high-interest credit cards. Currently, the average personal loan interest rates are about 14%, compared to about 24% or higher for credit cards.

As with other forms of credit, the lowest possible interest rates will likely go to borrowers with the highest scores.

Can I Build My Credit Score?

As mentioned above, the higher your credit score, the more likely lenders will offer lower interest rates, which makes borrowing cheaper. So before you apply for a loan, you may want to take steps to build your credit score a bit. Some tips:

•   Always make on-time payments. This is the most important factor in your credit history, comprising 35% of your credit score.

•   Keep your balances low. The amount you already owe represents 30% of your score. Consider paying off debts — especially high-interest debts — to lower your debt-to-income ratio and make more credit available.

•   Work to lengthen your credit history, have a good mix of types of credit (lines of credit and installment loans, for example), and don’t apply for too much credit in a short period of time.

It can take some time to build your credit, so if you know you’ll need to borrow in the future, it can be wise to start as soon as possible.

The Takeaway

With a credit score of 680, you are in the range of what are considered “good” credit scores. That means you’ll likely have access to most types of credit. Before you apply for a loan, however, take steps to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible. Be sure to shop around to multiple lenders for the lowest interest rates and best 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.

By Austin Kilham

(Last Updated – 12/2025)

A credit score of 610 is considered a “fair” score vs. a “good” score. According to FICO^®, which compiles one of the most commonly used credit scores, a “good” credit score is anywhere between 670 to 739. A 610 credit score falls short of that mark.

That said, is a 610 score bad? No, it’s a notch above the “poor” category. And it can still provide options for you to secure a loan or line of credit, though you are likely to have more limited choices and pay more to borrow. Here’s a closer look at what a score of 610 means, and what you can expect when borrowing funds.

What Does a 610 Credit Score Mean?

Most people in the U.S. have a credit score between 600 and 750. In fact, the ave

Most people in the U.S. have a credit score between 600 and 750. In fact, the average score is 715. With a 610 FICO Score, you land squarely in the “fair” range, which includes scores of 580 to 669. This score is below average, and may be categorized as “subprime.” That said, there may be lenders willing to approve loans at this credit level.

According to FICO, the ranges and ratings for credit scores are:

•   Poor credit: 300-579

•   Fair credit: 580-669

•   Good credit: 670-739

•   Very good credit: 740-799

•   Exceptional credit: 800-850

So what does a credit score of 610 mean? First, understand why your credit score is important. It’s a numerical representation of your credit history. It distills into one number factors such as your history of paying bills on time, how long you’ve had credit, how many accounts you’re able to maintain at once, and whether you’re actively seeking new credit.

When you apply for a loan, lenders will look at this score to help them determine your creditworthiness.

•   Higher scores can signal that you have been responsible with your credit in the past, and you’ve likely managed to pay your bills on time, even when juggling multiple forms of debt.

•   Lenders usually see borrowers with higher scores as less risk. They’re more likely to offer these borrowers credit at lower interest rates and with more favorable terms.

•   Lenders worry that borrowers with low credit scores are more likely to default on their loans. A default is time-consuming and costly to the lender as they attempt to recoup their losses, so a low score represents more risk.

•   Lenders may choose not to extend credit to borrowers with low scores. And if they do, they may offer loans with much higher interest rates and fees to help offset the risk they’re taking on.

Can I Build My Credit Score?

You can build your credit score. In fact, doing so may be a good idea for those wishing to avoid higher interest rates and fees. Strategies for raising your credit score include:

•   Always making on-time payments, first and foremost.

•   Keeping your credit utilization ratio low, ideally below 30%.

•   Aiming to extend your credit history, which can mean keeping open older accounts that are in good standing.

•   Showing you can handle a mix of credit types responsibly, such as lines of credit and installment loans.

•   Not applying for too much credit in a short window of time, if possible. It can create the impression that you are a risky borrower.

Recommended: Do Store Credit Cards Build Credit?

What Can You Get with a 610 Credit Score?

With a credit score of 610, you’ll likely have access to most types of lending products. However, there may be some restrictions on certain types of loans or credit lines, and you may not get the best rates and terms.

Can I Get a Credit Card with a 610 Credit Score?

You likely qualify for a credit card if you have a credit score of 610. However, think carefully about whether you’re able to take on this kind of credit.

Why? Credit cards are a form of revolving credit. They will allow you to carry a balance from month to month, but in return, they can charge high interest rates. Consider that the average interest rates for credit cards are around 24%. And this can make the cost of borrowing very expensive.

The only way to avoid interest is to pay your bill in full every month. Ask yourself whether you are able to do so. If you can’t, you could set yourself up to fall into increasing amounts of debt.

One alternative to consider: a secured credit card. A secured credit card allows you to put down a deposit and spend up to that amount. Making regular payments with a secured card can be a good way to improve your credit score, if your lender reports the activity to the credit bureaus.

Responsible use of a secured card can help you qualify for an unsecured card in the future.

Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 610 Credit Score?

There are no hard and fast rules for minimum scores needed to get an auto loan. The qualifications will vary lender to lender.

That said, the higher your score, the more likely you are to qualify for a loan. According to the Q2 2025 State of the Automotive Finance Market Report from Experian®, 10.86% of new auto loans went to borrowers with near-prime credit scores (601-660). Compare that to the 35.19% of new loans that went to borrowers with prime credit scores (661-780).

Unfortunately, the lower your credit score, the more you will likely pay to borrow when you finance a car. Consider that in 2025, the average interest rate on a new car loan for a near-prime borrower was 9.97%, while prime borrowers paid an average of 6.78% in interest.

Can I Get a Mortgage with a 610 Credit Score?

When it comes to getting a mortgage loan, a credit score of 610 can reduce your options. At 610, your credit score is not quite high enough to qualify for most conventional loans. These are loans that aren’t backed by a government agency, and they typically require a credit score of 620 or higher. It may be possible lenders will offer you a loan with a lower credit score, but they will almost certainly hike interest rates to compensate. This can significantly increase the cost of borrowing.

While conventional loans may be tough to secure, there are some government-backed options that are worth considering.

Federal Housing Administration, or FHA, loans with a 3.5% down payment typically require a credit score of 580. You can often qualify for one if you have a lower score as long as you put 10% down. There are some limitations on this program. For example, the home you purchase must be your primary residence, and you’ll need to demonstrate proof of employment.

Members and former members of the armed forces may qualify for a VA loan, which is offered through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. As with FHA loans, lenders usually require a credit score of at least 580 to qualify.

Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 610 Credit Score?

There are personal loans available to borrowers with lower credit scores. However, as with the other forms of credit mentioned above, there are likely trade-offs, namely in the form of higher interest rates and fees.

Before you take out a personal loan, consider whether you are able to take time to build your credit score before you borrow. That way, you may qualify for a loan with cheaper rates.

The Takeaway

With a credit score of 610, you will likely qualify for several useful types of credit. However, that credit will be more expensive due to potentially higher interest rates and fees than borrowers with higher scores would be charged. Take steps, if you can, to work on building your credit score. And at the very least, shop around to multiple lenders to help ensure that you’re getting the lowest rates and best terms possible.

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 Austin Kilham

(Last Updated – 12/2025)

A 600 credit score is considered “fair,” which is the category below “good” and above “poor.”

Most people have a credit score somewhere between 600 and 750, with an average score of 715 in the U.S. So what if you find yourself on the low end of that range? A 600 credit score may mean you have limited options for some loans and lines of credit. Those that you do qualify for may charge a higher interest rate and have less favorable terms.

Here’s a closer look at what a score of 600 means and what loan options might be available to you.

What Does a 600 Credit Score Mean?

A credit score range of 580 to 669 is considered to be “fair” according to FICO®, the most widely used credit scoring model. Here’s how FICO categorizes its scores:

•  Poor: 300-579

•  Fair: 580-669

•  Good: 670-739

•  Very Good: 740-799

•  Excellent: 800-850

As you can see, a 600 credit score is relatively low. Some lenders may see borrowers with this score as having unfavorable credit and may decide not to extend them credit. Other lenders do work with people who have fair credit scores, though the loans often come with higher interest rates and fees.

Building Your Credit Score

Prospective borrowers who wish to secure better loan terms may consider ways to increase their credit score. Strategies include:

•  Always making on-time payments

•  Keeping debt-to-income ratios low, usually below 30% (this meaning you are using less than 30% of your available credit limit)

•  Lengthening your credit history by keeping open older accounts that are in good standing

•  Having a good mix of credit (installment loans and lines of credit, say)

•  Avoid applying for multiple credit cards in a short period of time

Building better credit doesn’t happen overnight, so if you plan on seeking a loan in the future, start taking steps as soon as possible.

What Else Can You Get with a 600 Credit Score?

With a FICO credit score of 600, you generally fall in the what’s known as the subprime category of borrowers, or those who have below-average credit. However, as mentioned above, this does not mean that you won’t have access to loans or lines of credit.

Here’s a closer look at what you may qualify for with a 600 credit score.

Can I Get a Credit Card with a 600 Credit Score?

You can likely get a credit card with a credit score of 600, but think about this choice carefully. Those with credit scores of 700 or higher typically have the most choice and the most favorable terms.

Credit cards are high-interest debt. Currently, average interest rates are often above 23%. And if you have below-average credit, you may see your rate reflect this average or reach even higher.

High interest rates can make the cost of borrowing very expensive. Consider your ability to pay off your credit card in full every month, which is the only way to avoid paying interest.

If this is something you have trouble doing, you may consider an alternative, such as a secured credit card. With a secured credit card, you put down a deposit and can spend up to that amount as you credit limit. Using a secured card and making regular payments can be a good way to build your credit over time.

Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 600 Credit Score?

There is no minimum credit score for securing an auto loan, but according to Experian®, a credit score of at least 661 can help boost your odds of getting approved for favorable terms. Consider that in 2025, subprime borrowers (501-600 credit score) received 5.50% of new auto loans, while prime borrowers (661-780 credit score) received 35.19% of new loans.

What’s more, you will likely pay more for the privilege of borrowing if you’re in the subprime category. In 2025, the average interest rate on new car loans for subprime borrowers was 13.08% compared with a 6.40% interest rate for prime borrowers.

Recommended: Pros and Cons of Car Refinancing

Can I Get a Mortgage with a 600 Credit Score?

You have reduced options for getting a mortgage loan with a credit score of 600. For most conventional loans, which are not backed by a government agency, you’ll need a credit score of 620 or higher. Without that, lenders either won’t offer you a loan or they will offer a loan with a higher interest rate, which increases the cost of borrowing.

A government-backed USDA loan typically requires a credit score of 620 and other qualifying factors. Some other potential options to consider:

•   Federal Housing Administration or FHA loans are backed by the federal government. To qualify for a loan with a 3.5% down payment, you typically need a credit score of 580. You can usually qualify for a loan with a 10% down payment with a score between 500 and 579. Homes purchased through this program must be the buyer’s primary residence, and the borrower will need to demonstrate proof of employment.

•   If you are or have been a member of the armed services, you may qualify for a VA loan offered through the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. They are also backed by the federal government and typically require a credit score of 580.

Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 600 Credit Score?

You can likely get a personal loan with a “fair” score. Some lenders start approving personal loans for those with scores between 560 and 660, so loans for a 600 credit score are possible. But as with the other forms of credit examined in this article, you will likely be charged a higher interest rate and may have less-desirable terms (such as higher fees) than borrowers with higher scores.

You might consider whether it is critical for you to take out a personal loan with a 600 credit score now or if you can take steps to build your credit score before you borrow.

Recommended: Typical Personal Loan Requirements Needed for Approval

The Takeaway

Though a credit score of 600 is below average, you may still secure many types of credit. However, borrowing may cost you more than it would someone with a good, very good, or excellent credit.

There are steps you can take to help prevent overpaying, however. Any time you seek credit, be sure to compare rates among multiple lenders to help ensure that you receive the best interest rate possible and the best loan terms. You may also want to take steps to build your score as well.

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 Melissa Brock

(Last Updated – 11/2025)

A 640 credit score isn’t exactly good or bad. It is classified as “fair” on the popular FICO® Score scale. Still, that doesn’t mean you can’t reach some of your financial goals with a 640 score.

This three-digit number reflects a moderate degree of creditworthiness, or how well you handled debt and bills currently and in the past. Lenders use credit scores to determine whether they should grant you a loan and at what rate and with which terms. Given that the average credit score in the U.S. is currently 715, you can see that a 640 falls below the norm.

Read on for the definition of a 640 credit score, what it means, and what you can get in terms of loans and lines of credit.

What Does a 640 Credit Score Mean?

A 640 credit score means your score falls within the “fair” category — 580 to 669. It’s below the average credit score that most Americans have.

Credit scores generally fall in a credit score range from 300 to 850 in the most popular Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) model. Here’s how these numbers stack up:

•   Exceptional: 800 to 850

•   Very Good: 740 to 799

•   Good: 670 to 739

•   Fair: 580 to 669

•   Poor: 300 to 579

FICO scores consider different aspects of your credit and have different weights attributed to various items:

•   Payment history (35%)

•   Credit utilization (the percentage of total available credit you’re using) (30%)

•   Length of credit history (15%)

•   Mix of credit accounts (10%)

•   New credit accounts (10%)

Some lenders may see your credit score and decide you have unfavorable credit. In the end, they may decline your credit application. If they accept your application, they may charge you a higher interest rate to compensate for the lower credit score.

Here’s another question you may wonder about: Is 640 a bad credit score? No, it’s not.

Recommended: FICO vs. Credit Score?

What Can You Get with a 640 Credit Score?

So, what can you qualify for with a 640 credit score? It’s a great question, because when you think about the basic things you might need, many of them — homes, cars, and buying power — require credit to get.

However, it’s not just loans and lines of credit that may use your credit score as a qualifying factor. Landlords might look at your score when you apply to rent a property, and utility companies may check your three digits as well when deciding whether to charge you for equipment (such as cable boxes). A higher credit score (say, one firmly in the good or very good category or higher) could help you in these regards.

Can I Get a Credit Card with a 640 Credit Score?

Yes, you may be able to get a credit card with a 640 credit score. However, your 640 credit score could make it difficult for you to get approved for credit cards with favorable interest rates and perks. Typically, credit card issuers look for scores of 670 or higher.

A secured credit card could make it possible for you to qualify if you don’t get approved or are trying to build your credit. A secured credit card is one in which you must put a security deposit to open the account. Cardholders make a one-time, refundable deposit that acts as collateral for the card. For some people, using a secured credit card responsibly can be a stepping stone to having an unsecured card.

If you have high-interest credit card debt, you may want to consider a credit card consolidation loan. These loans typically have a lower interest rate than credit cards and may help you save money on monthly payments.

Can I Get an Auto Loan with a 640 Credit Score?

Those with a 640 credit score may find it hard to get a car loan or to get one with an affordable interest rate. Typically, those go to borrowers with credit scores of 675 or higher.

If you are finding it challenging to get a car loan, you might consider putting down a higher down payment or adding a cosigner.

Can I Get a Mortgage with a 640 Credit Score?

Yes, you can get a mortgage loan to purchase a home with a 640 credit score. Let’s look at a few different home loan types and a rundown of each:

•   Conventional mortgage: A conventional mortgage is a loan not backed by a government agency. You can typically qualify for a conventional loan with a 620 credit score, so you should be in the clear with a 640. But remember that other factors come into the equation, such as your income. You will also need to put down a down payment and have enough to cover closing costs.

Those with higher credit scores (say, 740 and up) may be able to put down less than those with lower scores and also score lower interest rates, since they are seen as less risky borrowers. Other factors, such as income history, job stability, and debt-to-income ratio, may also have an impact on whether you are approved and with which terms.

•   FHA loans: FHA loans vs. conventional loans are backed by the federal government, specifically the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). What does “backed” mean? It means the federal government insures the loan to protect your lender if you quit making your mortgage payments. FHA loans often allow you to borrow with a credit score minimum of 500 and a lower down payment option. You can roll closing costs into your loan.

•   VA loans: VA loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. To qualify, you must be a service member, veteran, or qualifying surviving spouse. Most lenders look for a score of 620 (though some may accept 580), so you can likely get one with a 640 credit score. They do not require a down payment, but you must have a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to qualify for a VA loan.

•   USDA loans: The U.S. Department of Agriculture guarantees USDA loans. You typically need a credit score of at least 640, so you’re in the right credit score neighborhood. You must also meet certain income criteria and purchase a home in a designated rural area.

•   Jumbo loans: This is the only loan you may not qualify for. They typically require you to have a higher credit score, typically 700 to 720 or higher, with a 10% to 20% down payment in order to qualify for these larger loans.

Jumbo loans exceed the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac conforming loan limits. For 2025, the conforming loan limit is $806,500 unless you live in a high-cost area like Alaska or Hawaii, where the conforming loan limit is $1,209,750 for a single-unit property. The number increases depending on the number of units you own.

Are you unsure which type of mortgage fits you? Talk to a lender to learn more about the route you should go based on your score and other qualifications.

Can I Get a Personal Loan with a 640 Credit Score?

Yes, you should be able to get a personal loan with a 640 credit score. You can compare rates from a few different lenders, particularly through a local bank, credit union, or online lender.

Getting prequalified for a personal loan type can help you determine the interest rate you’ll qualify for. If you’re unsatisfied with the interest rate, you may consider cosigning with someone with a higher credit score than you.

Recommended: Personal Loan Calculator

The Takeaway

A 640 credit score is neither good nor bad. It is considered “fair” according to credit score ratings. While you may qualify for credit cards, other lines of credit, and loans, you likely won’t get the most favorable rates or perks. Building your score through diligent on-time payments and management of your credit utilization may help you snag better 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.