A credit score is a number that rates your credit risk at one point in time. It can help creditors determine whether to give you credit, decide the terms you are offered, or the rate you will pay for the loan. Having a high score can benefit you in many ways, including making it easier for you to obtain a loan, rent an apartment, and lower your insurance rate.

The information in your credit report is used to calculate your credit score. That\'s why it\'s important to make sure your credit report is accurate. You can have multiple credit scores, created by different companies or lenders that use their own credit scoring system.  

Your free annual credit report does not include your credit score, but it\'s available for a fee. When you buy your score, you often get information on how you can improve it.