 TITLE: How to Achieve the Highest Credit Score CONTENT: Why Your Credit Score Matters\n-----------------------------\nLenders and other financial institutions use credit scores to get a snapshot of your overall credit health. While they'll typically consider more than just your credit score in a lending decision, that three-digit number is an important factor because it gives them a quick understanding of how likely you are to repay your debts on time.\nAlso, some auto and homeowners insurance companies use what's called a credit-based insurance score to help determine your monthly rates, although this isn't allowed in every state.\nMost credit scoring systems use a scale that ranges from 300 to 850. There are, however, some credit scoring models that go up to 900 or 950, including industry-specific scores used by certain institutions.\nWorking your way up to an 850 credit score might sound appealing, but it isn't necessary. Simply having a credit score in the upper 700s or low 800s indicates that you're a responsible credit user, and you'll likely qualify for the same terms that you would with a perfect credit score.\nSo instead of shooting for a specific score, focus on the credit score ranges. Here are the ranges for one of the most common scoring models, the FICO® Score☉ : END