Whether it’s a different score from a bank, an auto lender or another source, it’s not unusual to see many different credit scores. Here are three of the reasons why.
There are many different scoring models
On Credit Karma you’ll see scores and reports from TransUnion and Equifax, both using the VantageScore 3.0 scoring model. VantageScore was created in collaboration with all three credit bureaus, and VantageScore 3.0 is relied on by lenders across a variety of industries.
Each credit scoring model has its own formula that may take into account different factors of your credit report. And each scoring model weighs different credit factors slightly differently.
When you apply for a financial product the lender may be looking at different credit factors to make a lending decision. An auto lender for example might use a scoring model that weighs any existing auto loans more heavily than other credit factors. And a mortgage lender may be considering entirely different criteria altogether!
Lenders may not report to all three credit bureaus
Some lenders report to all three major credit bureaus, but others report to only one or two. Because of this difference in reporting, each of the three credit bureaus may have slightly different credit report information for you and you may see different scores as a result.
Scores can be from different dates
Credit bureaus can sometimes take a while to receive up-to-date information from your lenders and your scores may not change as quickly as you’d expect.
Since your scores might change at any time it’s a good idea to compare credit scores from the same date. If you do compare scores from the same credit scoring model, make sure they were last updated on the same date.
If there are so many scores, what should I focus on?
Though your scores may vary, they’re all based on information in your credit reports — so focusing on the information and key factors in your reports can help you make your credit stronger overall, no matter who’s checking.
Want more information?
See more details on this topic in this article: Why are there so many different credit scores?
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