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How and Where to Get Your Free FICO® Score: 6 Reliable Sources in 2024
Your credit scores significantly influence your financial future, affecting everything from mortgage applications to credit card approvals. While many people are familiar with VantageScore through services like Credit Karma, FICO® scores remain the industry standard, used by 90% of top lenders in their decision-making process.
Understanding FICO® Scores vs. VantageScore: Key Differences
Before diving into where to get your free FICO® score, it's essential to understand how FICO® differs from VantageScore. Both scoring models analyze your credit report data, but they weigh credit score factors differently. FICO®, developed by the Fair Isaac Corporation, is more widely used by creditors and lenders for credit decisions.
Key factors that influence your FICO® score include:
- Payment history (35%)
- Credit utilization (30%)
- Credit history length (15%)
- Credit mix (10%)
- New credit inquiries (10%)
6 Legitimate Ways to Access Your Free FICO® Score
Discover Credit Scorecard
Discover's Credit Scorecard program offers free monthly FICO® score updates to everyone, not just cardmembers. This service includes:
- Monthly FICO® score updates based on TransUnion® data
- Personalized credit tips
- Credit score history tracking
- $0 fraud liability guarantee
- Dark web monitoring
American Express® Free FICO® Score Access
American Express cardholders can access their FICO® score through the FICO® Score Open Access Program. Benefits include:
- Monthly score updates based on Experian® credit reports
- Detailed FICO® score factors
- Credit score simulator
- Credit management tools
- Online account access
Citibank® Credit Card FICO® Scores
Select Citibank credit card holders receive complimentary access to their FICO® scores, featuring:
- Monthly updates based on Equifax® data
- Credit score chart tracking
- Credit utilization insights
- Payment history monitoring
- Credit mix analysis
Bank of America FICO® Score Program
Bank of America provides eligible cardholders with free FICO® scores through their online account, offering:
- TransUnion®-based FICO® scores
- National FICO® score comparisons
- Credit score history tracking
- Credit score factors explanation
- Personalized credit tips
Credit Unions
Many credit unions offer free FICO® scores as a membership benefit. Notable examples include:
- Navy Federal Credit Union
- DCU Credit Union
- Local banks and credit unions: These institutions often provide additional financial counseling and credit management resources.
FICO® Official Website
Through myFICO.com, you can access:
- Free monthly Equifax-based FICO® score
- Credit report monitoring
- Identity alerts
- Credit score simulator
- Educational resources
Maximizing Your Credit Card Rewards While Monitoring Your Score
While monitoring your FICO® score is crucial, you can also maximize your credit card rewards simultaneously. Kudos, a free AI-powered browser extension, helps you optimize your credit card usage across over 15,000 stores.
Currently, Kudos is offering $20 back after your first eligible purchase — simply sign up for free with code "GET20" and make a purchase at a Boost merchant. This tool complements your credit monitoring strategy by ensuring you're getting the most value from your credit cards while maintaining good credit habits.
Expert Takeaway
Regularly monitoring your FICO® score is essential for maintaining a healthy financial profile. With these six free options available, there's no reason not to stay informed about your credit standing. Remember that checking your own credit score through these methods counts as a soft inquiry and won't affect your credit score.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between FICO® and VantageScore?
FICO® and VantageScore use different credit scoring models to calculate your credit score. While both consider similar factors, FICO® scores are more widely used by lenders and financial institutions.
How often should I check my FICO® score?
Financial experts recommend checking your FICO® score at least once every three months, or before applying for new credit products.
Will checking my FICO® score hurt my credit?
No, checking your own FICO® score is considered a soft inquiry and won't impact your credit score.
Which FICO® score do mortgage lenders use?
]Most mortgage lenders use FICO® Score 8 or FICO® Score 2, 4, or 5, depending on the type of loan and specific requirements of conventional loans.
Can I get my FICO® score if I have no credit history?
Yes, but you may need to build some credit history first. Services like Experian Go and Experian Boost can help you establish initial credit history.
Supercharge Your Credit Cards
Experience smarter spending with Kudos and unlock more from your credit cards. Earn $20.00 when you sign up for Kudos with "GET20" and make an eligible Kudos Boost purchase.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
