What kind of credit score is 847?
An 847 credit score places you among the elite group of U.S. consumers, far surpassing the national average. Approximately 23% of Americans have an exceptional credit score ranging from 847 to 850, but only 1.6% have a perfect score of 850. These scores reflect exceptional credit management skills, including punctual payments and minimal credit utilization. Attaining such a score is the result of long-term diligence and consistency rather than quick fixes.
An exceptional credit score marks you as a preferred borrower in the eyes of lenders. Lenders rely on your score, extracted from your credit report, to gauge your potential risk of default. A high score like 847 indicates that you are a low-risk borrower, making you an attractive candidate for loans and credit. As such, you’re poised to gain access to loans with favorable interest rates, credit cards with lucrative rewards, and higher credit limits. Additionally, an 847 credit score can lead to better terms on mortgages, car loans, and even insurance policies, potentially saving you thousands of dollars over time.
Maintaining this top-tier score involves continued financial discipline. To keep your score at this level, it’s essential to make all payments on time, keep credit card balances low, avoid opening too many new accounts, and regularly monitor your credit report for errors. Understanding the advantages of an exceptional credit score and how to maintain it can ensure long-term financial health and access to the best financial products available.
Getting a credit card with an 847 credit score
With an 847 credit score, applying for a credit card often comes with few hurdles. While absolute approval might not exist, your score almost assures eligibility for a broad spectrum of cards offered. Issuers are inclined to propose their top-tier products featuring competitive APRs (annual percentage rate), lucrative rewards, and exceptional benefits. However, it's important to note that these premium offerings frequently include significant annual fees and increased interest rates. Prioritize which benefits matter most to you and select a card that offers more in value than it asks for in fees.
When choosing the right credit card, consider the various types available:
Cash Back Cards:
Travel Cards:
Co-Branded Cards:
Premium Cards:
Business Rewards Cards:
How to Tell if You're Getting the Best Deal
With such a good credit score, you have a lot of choices. It can be easy to be tempted by some of the sign-up bonuses or shiny rewards that credit card issuers offer. The thing to keep in mind is that top-tier cards with lucrative rewards can be expensive. Yes, you get a lot back, but issuers still want to make money, so they'll charge a high annual fee and high interest rate. Make sure that the card you choose fits your budget and that you will get more back in benefits than you'll spend out of pocket. Otherwise you're simply paying to spend money.
To determine if you're getting the best deal, consider the following factors:
- Annual Fee: Weigh the annual fee against the value of the rewards and benefits. High annual fees can be justified if the perks (e.g., travel credits, lounge access) outweigh the cost.
- APR: Look for a card with a competitive APR, especially if you plan to carry a balance. However, paying your balance in full each month can negate the impact of high APR.
- Rewards Rate: Compare the rewards rates across different spending categories. Choose a card that offers high rewards in the categories where you spend the most.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Consider the value of the sign-up bonus and the spending requirement to earn it. A lucrative sign-up bonus can significantly boost your rewards in the first year.
- Additional Benefits: Evaluate other benefits such as purchase protection, extended warranties, travel insurance, and customer service quality.
Choosing the right card depends on your spending habits and the specific benefits you value most. If you travel a lot, a travel card may be perfect. If you have a favorite hotel or airline, a co-branded card may offer better rewards. With an exceptional credit score, you can choose from the best options available. Decide what perks you want, then do your research to ensure you get a card with maximum benefits and minimum costs.
Getting a personal loan with an 847 credit score
Similarly, an 847 credit score simplifies the process of obtaining a personal loan. Lenders see you as a prime candidate, which means you'll qualify for the lowest interest rates and most favorable loan terms. An excellent score can save you significant money over the life of a loan, whether you're consolidating debt, making a major purchase, or financing a personal project. However, it’s still crucial to do your research and shop around for loans. Understand what rates are available and try to prequalify so that you can compare offers and secure the best terms possible.
Where to Find Different Types of Loans
Banks:
Credit Unions:
Online Lenders:
Loan Marketplaces:
Cash Advance Apps:
Shopping Around and Prequalifying
Shopping around and prequalifying for loans is essential to ensure you get the best deal possible. Prequalification involves a soft credit check, which does not impact your credit score and gives you an idea of the rates and terms you might qualify for. Here's what to look for when prequalifying:
Interest Rates: Compare the annual percentage rates (APRs) offered by different lenders. A lower APR means you'll pay less in interest over the life of the loan.
Loan Terms: Consider the length of the loan and monthly payment amounts. Longer terms mean lower monthly payments but more interest paid overall.
Fees: Look out for origination fees, prepayment penalties, and other charges that can affect the overall cost of the loan.
Repayment Flexibility: Check if the lender offers flexible repayment options, such as bi-weekly payments or deferment in case of financial hardship.
With your exceptional credit score, you are in a good position to pick and choose the best loan. It can literally pay to shop around as you may save thousands over the life of the loan.
Reasons for Loan Denial
Despite a high credit score, you may still be denied a loan. While your score is important for lenders and makes you an ideal candidate, it is not everything they consider. Several other reasons for denials include:
High Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI): If your monthly debt payments are too high compared to your income, lenders may view you as a higher risk.
Insufficient Income: Lenders require proof that you have a stable income sufficient to repay the loan.
Too Many Existing Loans or Credit Accounts: Multiple active credit accounts or loans can make lenders hesitant to extend additional credit.
Unstable Employment: Lenders prefer borrowers with a stable employment history. Frequent job changes or gaps in employment can be red flags.
Lender-Specific Reasons: Each lender has its criteria and risk assessments, which might include factors like the type of loan you’re applying for or internal policies.
With an 847 credit score, obtaining a personal loan becomes more accessible, but it's still crucial to shop around and prequalify to ensure you're getting the best deal. Consider various lending sources like banks, credit unions, online lenders, and loan marketplaces. Understand the factors beyond your credit score that can influence loan approval, such as your debt-to-income ratio, income stability, and existing credit accounts. By being diligent in your research and preparation, you can secure a loan that meets your needs and offers the best terms available.
Take your 847 credit score with a grain of salt
Your score is only one part of your financial well-being. Lenders also consider other factors like income, employment, and debt levels to determine if they will lend to you. Yes, an 847 credit score is an impressive achievement, but it’s only part of your financial health. Some lenders don't even consider it at all. Do not become complacent, as scores can change for better or worse.
To maintain your status as a strong financial candidate, you must continue to practice sound financial habits. Maintain your score by continuing to pay your bills on time and keeping your usage low. Then, continue to pay down your existing debts and stay employed to be considered a good candidate all around. By upholding responsible financial habits, you can remain a well-rounded and appealing candidate to lenders.
Tips for maintaining your exceptional credit score
With your credit score now in the exceptional range, safeguarding it from decline is key. The first step in doing that is knowing how scores are calculated. There are two main scoring models, FICO and VantageScore. Both models look at similar patterns of behavior and rate scores from 300 to 850. There are some key differences in how exactly they calculate your scores.
FICO Score:
- Payment history (35%)
- Amounts owed (30%)
- Length of credit history (15%)
- New credit (10%)
- Credit mix (10%)
FICO scores are the most commonly used by lenders.
VantageScore:
- Payment history (40%)
- Depth of credit (21%)
- Utilization (21%)
- Balances (11%)
- Recent credit (5%)
- Available credit (3%)
VantageScore is known for using different algorithms and can sometimes offer scores for people with a shorter credit history.
Let’s consider the key factors that got your score in the top tier to begin with and how you can keep it there.
Check Your Report
Regularly checking your credit report is crucial for maintaining an exceptional credit score. This helps you identify and correct any errors or inaccuracies that could negatively impact your score. You are entitled to a free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus—Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax—via AnnualCreditReport.com. Reviewing your report also allows you to spot any signs of identity theft or fraud early. Ensuring all information is accurate and up-to-date not only protects your credit score but also contributes to your overall financial health.
Prompt Payment of Bills
Your outstanding score likely reflects a history of no late payments. Maintaining this record is crucial, as consistent on-time payments are the cornerstone of a high credit score. To prevent human forgetfulness, implement autopay or set reminders for upcoming bills. A late payment can severely hurt your score, especially when it’s high. If you do miss a bill, contact your creditor immediately and ask for leniency. On the first offense, they may forgive the mistake and not report it to the credit bureaus, helping to preserve your excellent credit standing.
Managing Credit Balances
The ratio of your credit usage to your total credit limit, known as credit utilization, should ideally be below 30%. With an exceptional score, you likely maintain a utilization of less than 10%. Keep this up to ensure your score stays in the exceptional range. Maintaining a low credit utilization ratio can be easier with a higher credit limit. Many creditors are willing to increase limits for consistently responsible customers, so consider requesting one. Alternatively, pay down balances ahead of time to avoid approaching your credit limit, ensuring your utilization remains low.
Account Longevity
The age of your credit accounts significantly contributes to your overall credit score. The longer you’ve had credit, the better, as it shows a history of responsible credit management. Keeping older accounts open supports a lengthy credit history, while closing them can adversely affect both your credit age and utilization ratio. To prevent issuers from closing inactive accounts, use them for occasional purchases. Consider closing an account only if it incurs substantial fees, understanding that the initial negative impact will lessen over time. Maintaining older accounts can help preserve and enhance your credit score.
Selective Credit Inquiries
New credit inquiries can cause your credit score to dip, so it's important to limit these inquiries by applying for new credit only when necessary. While a single inquiry typically has a minimal impact, multiple inquiries within a short period can signal potential financial distress to lenders. This could result in higher interest rates or even denial of credit. To protect your credit score, be selective about when and why you apply for new credit, ensuring that each application is strategically planned and truly needed.
Varied Credit Portfolio
Managing a mix of credit types, such as installment loans and credit cards, can enhance your credit score. This diversity demonstrates your ability to handle various types of credit responsibly. However, acquiring additional loans solely to diversify your credit mix is unnecessary for maintaining an exceptional score. It's important not to take on debt you don't need, as this can lead to unnecessary financial strain. Focus on managing your existing credit responsibly, making timely payments, and keeping your balances low to maintain your excellent credit standing.
Maintaining your exceptional credit score involves more than just a high score. It’s about continuously demonstrating responsible financial behavior across various facets of credit management. By understanding the nuances of how your score is calculated and diligently managing your financial activities, you can ensure your credit remains exemplary.
Next steps for your 847 credit score
An 847 credit score is a testament to your financial responsibility and opens many doors in the credit market. It affords you the best terms on loans and credit cards, saving you money and offering opportunities for financial growth. With such a stellar score, you can secure lower interest rates, higher credit limits, and access to premium financial products, which can significantly enhance your financial flexibility and savings over time.
However, credit isn’t something you can set and forget. Maintaining this exceptional score requires ongoing diligence. Continue to keep your credit utilization low, ideally below 10%, to show that you manage credit wisely. Always pay your bills on time, as even one late payment can significantly impact your score. Regularly review your credit reports to ensure they are accurate and to catch any signs of identity theft or errors that could hurt your credit.
By adhering to the practices that earned you this score—responsible credit use, timely payments, and regular monitoring—you can ensure that your credit remains an asset for years to come. This proactive approach will help you sustain your high score, keeping you in a strong position to take advantage of the best financial opportunities available.
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.