HotelCards.com uses a variation of FICO® Score 8 for its credit ranges and definitions thereof. FICO® Score 8 is one of multiple types of credit scores used by lenders when considering your credit card application. Keep in mind that meeting the minimum credit level does not automatically guarantee that you will be approved for any particular credit card.
Credit Scores Explained
Excellent Credit
Approval odds:
Fairly likely
A credit score which falls in the 740 to 850 range is considered excellent and is above average for the typical U.S. consumer’s score. Consumers who have excellent credit scores will find that they will easily get approved for most credit cards or other lending applications.
Good Credit
Approval odds:
Favorable
On par with the average U.S. consumer’s score, a credit score of 670 to 739 is considered good. Consumers who have a credit score that falls into the “good” category will find they have a favorable chance at approval for nearly all credit cards, with the exception of the most premium cards and the lowest interest rates.
Fair Credit
Approval odds:
Somewhat unfavorable
A credit score in the 580 to 669 range is considered fair and is slightly below the average U.S. consumer’s score. Those with fair credit are often referred to as “subprime” borrowers by credit issuers and have a limited range of credit card that they can be approved for.
Bad Credit
Approval odds:
Unlikely
A credit score which lands below 579 is considered poor and is much lower than the average consumer’s score in the U.S. Individuals with poor credit will discover that their options are more limited and are likely to be rejected for most credit cards. Those they are approved for typically require added measures, like security deposits or fees.
No Credit
Approval odds:
Slim to none
Those who have not yet established a credit history will find a very narrow selection of cards to choose from. A secured card is likely the best starting point towards building a reputable credit file, after which a better credit card can be applied for. Prepaid cards are another option since they do not often require a credit history.