A 698 credit score is considered good and places you right in the middle of the credit score spectrum. According to Experian, the average credit score among Americans is 715, which also falls squarely in the good camp. A credit score of 698 opens up numerous financial opportunities, including access to better interest rates, more favorable loan terms, and a wider range of borrowing options.
Most lenders will approve an applicant with a 698 score as it shows that you generally pay your bills on time. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into what a 698 credit score means when it comes to applying for loans and credit cards and the steps you can take to bring your score to the next level.
What kind of credit score is 698?
Your credit score is the main way lenders determine how much of a risk you pose as a borrower or in simpler terms, your reliability in repaying loans. A score between 670 and 739 falls into the good category, signaling to lenders that you are a dependable borrower, which translates to low risk. 21% of Americans have a score in this range. A good score is typically sufficient for securing approval from most lending institutions. If your score lies within this spectrum, expect to be considered for loans and credit cards with more favorable interest rates and terms.
A credit score of 698, while solid, is not categorized as very good or exceptional. With a score of 698, you are seen as a relatively safe bet by lenders, but the most advantageous interest rates and loan terms are likely still out of reach. This score level indicates that while you are generally reliable, there may be a history of occasional late payments, defaults, or a limited credit history. Consequently, lenders may be more cautious when evaluating your application compared to those with higher credit scores. Maintaining or improving your credit score can open doors to better financial opportunities and more favorable loan conditions.
Can I get a credit card with a 698 credit score?
A 698 credit score puts you in a favorable position to qualify for a wide range of credit cards. Credit card issuers view applicants with this score as financially reliable, increasing the likelihood of approval for cards with better terms and various perks. Here are some types of credit cards you might qualify for with a 698 credit score:
1. Cash Back Cards: Cash back credit cards reward you with a percentage of your spending back in the form of cash rebates. Typically, these cards offer 1-2% cash back on most purchases, with higher percentages on specific categories such as groceries, gas, or dining. With a 698 credit score, you are eligible for many competitive cash back cards, enabling you to enjoy substantial savings over time. These cards not only provide a straightforward way to earn rewards on everyday expenses but also help in managing your finances more efficiently by offering tangible returns on your spending.
2. Travel Rewards Cards: Travel rewards credit cards allow you to earn points or miles that can be redeemed for travel-related expenses like flights, hotel stays, and car rentals. These cards often include additional perks such as travel insurance, airport lounge access, and no foreign transaction fees. With a 698 credit score, you qualify for several attractive travel rewards cards. However, the most premium cards, which offer extensive benefits, may still require a higher credit score. By using these cards wisely, you can enhance your travel experiences and save on travel costs.
3. Balance Transfer Cards: Balance transfer credit cards are designed to help you manage and pay down existing debt by offering low or 0% introductory APR on balance transfers for a specified period. This feature can save you significant amounts on interest if you have high-interest debt. With a 698 credit score, you are likely to qualify for balance transfer cards with favorable terms, making it easier to reduce your debt more efficiently. Utilizing these cards strategically can accelerate your journey to becoming debt-free while minimizing interest payments.
4. Low-Interest and 0% Intro APR Cards: These cards offer low ongoing interest rates or 0% introductory APR on purchases for a limited time, making them ideal for large purchases that you need a little longer to pay off. Be sure you can pay off the balance before the introductory period ends or you will likely be stuck with a much higher APR. With a good credit score of 698, you can secure access to these beneficial cards, aiding in more efficient financial management. By taking advantage of these offers, you can spread out the cost of major expenses while avoiding the burden of high interest, thereby maintaining better control over your budget and debt.
While a 698 credit score is solid and opens up many opportunities, it may not qualify you for the most exclusive credit card offers. Premium cards with lucrative rewards, higher cash back rates, and top-notch perks typically require very good to excellent credit, usually above 740. Nonetheless, maintaining and improving your credit score can eventually provide access to these top-tier credit options.
Can I get a personal loan with a 698 credit score?
A 698 credit score boosts your likelihood of qualifying for personal loans with attractive interest rates and beneficial terms. This score categorizes you as a moderate-risk borrower in the eyes of lenders, thus simplifying the loan acquisition process. Individual lenders will offer varying rates and terms but your score affords you the leverage to explore and negotiate for the best possible deals. Always compare offers to make sure you get the best one for you.
Here are the different types of personal loans and where you can get them:
Types of Personal Loans
Secured Loans: Secured loans require collateral, such as a car or a house, to back the loan. Because the lender can claim your collateral if you default, these loans often come with lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans. They are suitable for individuals who have valuable assets and are seeking lower rates or larger loan amounts. This type of loan provides lenders with added security, making it easier for borrowers with substantial assets to access favorable terms and higher loan amounts.
Installment Loans: Installment loans are repaid over a set period in fixed monthly payments, making them ideal for large expenses like home renovations or consolidating high-interest debt. They offer the stability of a predictable payment schedule, simplifying budgeting and financial planning. Borrowers know exactly how much they must pay each month, reducing financial uncertainty. This predictability makes installment loans a practical choice for managing significant financial commitments while maintaining control over monthly expenses.
Cash Advance Apps: Cash advance apps allow you to borrow small amounts of money against your next paycheck, making them a convenient short-term solution for emergency expenses. These apps typically offer smaller amounts of up to $500 without requiring a credit check, providing quick access to funds when needed most. You simply link your bank account to the app and it will determine how much you can borrow. Some apps require direct deposit or to see your timesheet as well. The fees are usually minimal but can add up. There is typically a flat fee per advance, subscription fee, or optional tip. Most apps also charge a fast funding fee in case you need the cash instantly. While cash advance apps can be helpful in urgent situations, relying on them frequently is not a good idea.
Where to Get Personal Loans
Banks: Traditional banks offer personal loans with competitive interest rates, especially for those with good credit scores like 698. They provide both secured and unsecured loan options, catering to various financial needs. While banks typically offer favorable terms for qualified borrowers, they often have stricter qualification criteria and longer approval processes compared to other lenders. This thorough vetting process ensures that borrowers meet their standards, which can result in more favorable loan conditions and added financial security for both the lender and the borrower.
Credit Unions: Credit unions are member-owned financial institutions that often offer lower interest rates and more personalized service than banks. They are typically more flexible with their lending criteria, making them a favorable option for individuals with a 698 credit score. Additionally, credit unions frequently provide educational resources and financial counseling to help members manage their finances effectively. This member-centric approach, combined with competitive rates and supportive services, makes credit unions a valuable resource for those seeking financial products and guidance.
Online Lenders: Online lenders provide a quick and convenient way to apply for personal loans, often featuring a streamlined application process and faster approval times. Catering to a wide range of credit profiles, they offer competitive rates and terms that can rival traditional lenders. These platforms often utilize innovative underwriting methods to assess creditworthiness, considering factors beyond just your credit score. This approach allows more individuals to qualify for loans, making online lenders an accessible and efficient option for securing personal financing.
Understanding Loan Rejection and Improvement
Not all lenders may be willing to extend a loan to you, as some have strict criteria, preferring scores significantly higher within the 698 spectrum. If you’re rejected, you're entitled to request an adverse action notice, which compels lenders to provide the reasons for denial and the credit data used in their decision-making process. This information can be crucial in understanding and addressing the specific factors affecting your creditworthiness.
If your score is the issue, take comfort in knowing that you're already making strides towards enhancing it. By consistently paying your bills on time, reducing your debt levels, and monitoring your credit report for errors, you can gradually improve your credit score. Engaging in responsible credit practices will not only enhance your ability to secure loans but also ensure better financial health in the long run.
A 698 credit score opens up numerous possibilities for obtaining personal loans with favorable terms. Understanding the different types of loans and where to obtain them can help you make informed financial decisions and take advantage of the opportunities your credit score affords you.
Take your 698 credit score with a grain of salt
Good credit does not have a one-size-fits-all definition across the lending industry. Different lenders have varying score requirements and place different levels of importance on credit scores. Your credit score represents just a fraction of the overall criteria. Many lenders are inclined to assess the entirety of your financial situation, including job stability, income, and the debts you currently carry.
While reaching a 698 credit score is noteworthy, it's vital to remain proactive in managing your finances. Credit scores can easily change for better or worse. Maintaining a good credit score requires ongoing attention to several factors, such as making timely payments, keeping credit card balances low, and avoiding new debt accumulation. Additionally, regularly monitoring your credit report for errors or inaccuracies is crucial, as even minor discrepancies can impact your score.
It's also beneficial to diversify your credit mix by having various types of credit accounts, such as credit cards, installment loans, and mortgages. This diversification can positively influence your credit score over time. Ultimately, while a 698 credit score positions you well within the "good" range, aiming even higher can qualify you for more advantageous financial options, such as lower interest rates, higher credit limits, and better loan terms. Keeping up the good work to preserve and improve your score will open up more opportunities and provide greater financial flexibility.
How can I make my good credit score great?
Your 698 credit score is commendable and places you well above the threshold of poor credit. However, there's still room for improvement to reach higher tiers of creditworthiness. While there's no exact formula for achieving a perfect credit score, you can take several steps to continue raising your score and becoming a more attractive credit risk for lenders.
First of all, let's go over how credit scores are calculated. The credit scoring models take into account the following five factors:
- Payment history - 35%
- Credit utilization - 30%
- Length of credit history - 15%
- Credit mix - 10%
- New inquiries - 10%
Your first step towards even better credit should be to check your credit report. You can get your credit report once a year for free from annualcreditreport.com. Look it over for errors or discrepancies. These can be simple mistakes you should dispute with the issuing bureau or signs of identity theft. Next, see what you're doing wrong. Knowing what habits you have that are keeping your score down lets you know what you need to change.
Now, here are some essential principles to implement to bring your score to even greater heights:
Lower your utilization: Aim to use only 30% of your available credit, and even better, keep it below 10%. Credit utilization significantly impacts your credit score. The average consumer with a FICO score of 800 uses only 5.7% of their available credit. To lower your utilization, pay down existing debts, consider increasing your credit limits, and always pay your bills in full. The less credit you use, the better, but it's also crucial to keep your cards active to show responsible usage.
Pay your bills on time: Timely bill payment is the most critical factor in building and maintaining a high credit score. The impact of a late payment on your score depends on how late the payment is and how recently it was missed. An impressive 95% of consumers with FICO scores of 800+ have never missed a payment. Consistently paying your bills on time will demonstrate your reliability to lenders.
Let your credit age: The length of your credit history matters significantly. A longer credit history indicates more credit experience and provides lenders with more data on your financial behavior. There's not much you can do to speed up this process except to wait. Consumers with FICO scores of 800+ have an average account age of 10.5 years. Patience and consistent use of credit over time will benefit your score.
Don’t close old accounts: While it might be tempting to close old accounts, doing so can decrease your available credit, increase your credit utilization ratio, and shorten your credit history length. However, if an account has high fees, it may be worth closing. Generally, keeping old accounts open helps maintain a favorable credit utilization rate and a longer credit history.
Apply for new credit sparingly: Only apply for new credit when absolutely necessary. Each application results in a hard inquiry, which can negatively impact your credit score for about a year. Additionally, newly opened accounts lower the average age of your credit history. Limiting new credit applications helps maintain a stable and strong credit profile.
Diversify your credit mix: A diverse credit mix, including both credit cards and installment loans, can positively impact your credit score. However, you should only take on new debt if you need it. Demonstrating responsible management of various credit types shows lenders your ability to handle different forms of credit.
Building credit takes time, but you're already halfway there. By consistently following these principles and maintaining responsible financial behavior, your credit score will continue to rise. Remember, improving your credit is a gradual process, but with patience and diligence, you can achieve an excellent credit score and unlock even better financial opportunities.
Next steps for your 698 credit score
Achieving a 698 credit score is commendable and reflects well on your financial habits, but you can still do more to improve your financial standing. A higher score will open doors to the finest financial products available, including loans and credit cards with the lowest interest rates and most attractive rewards. To start, thoroughly understand your current score by examining your credit reports for any areas that need improvement.
Begin by lowering your credit utilization rate. Aim to use less than 30% of your available credit, and ideally below 10%. Paying down balances and requesting higher credit limits can help achieve this. On-time payments are crucial, as they heavily influence your credit score. Set up automatic payments or reminders to ensure you never miss a due date.
Another factor is the age of your credit accounts. Avoid closing old accounts unless they carry significant fees, as their longevity positively impacts your score. Be cautious with new credit applications; too many hard inquiries can temporarily lower your score.
Lastly, maintain a varied credit portfolio, including different types of credit accounts, to show lenders you can manage various financial responsibilities. By consistently applying these strategies, you can elevate your score into the very good or excellent range, significantly enhancing your financial opportunities.
This content is general in nature and is provided for informational purposes only. MoneyFor is not a financial advisor and does not offer financial planning services. This content may contain references to products and services offered through MoneyFor marketplace.