Is a 666 Credit Score Good or Bad?

If you’ve got a 666 credit score, you’re on the higher end of what’s considered fair credit. It’s a solid jumping-off point, although there’s still plenty of room to improve your credit profile. Remember, the higher your score, the more creditworthy you appear to lenders — which can mean lower interest rates, as well as more loan options.

Key takeaways

• Under FICO, which is the more commonly used credit scoring model, a 666 credit score is considered a fair credit score (and is four points away from a good credit score).
• You still can get loans and credit cards with a credit score of 666, but you can get better offers with a higher credit score.
• There are steps you can take that should help increase your credit score.

Is 666 a good credit score?

A 666 credit score is almost a good credit score. It’s technically seen as a fair credit score, according to the FICO model. There are several different types of credit scores and credit scoring models, but 90% of top lenders use FICO Scores, according to the company. These range anywhere from 300 to 850 and are broken down into five different tiers of creditworthiness.

Fair credit is the second-lowest tier. The bright spot is that a 666 score is only four points away from the next level up, which is good credit. As of October 2023, the average FICO Score in the U.S. was 717.

Here’s a closer look at FICO Score ranges.

How to improve your 666 credit score

Below are some tried-and-true ways to improve your credit:

• Pay down your current debts. How much you owe makes up 30% of your FICO Score. That’s why maxing out your credit cards can negatively affect your credit score. Try to keep your credit utilization ratio below 30%. This is the amount of available credit you’re actually using.
• Request a higher credit limit: A higher limit can reduce your credit utilization ratio, which is good news for your credit score. Just be sure not to accumulate new debt with that extra spending power.
• Avoid late or missed payments: Your payment history accounts for 35% of your FICO Score. Setting up autopay can help you consistently make on-time payments.
• Check for errors on your credit report: Whether it’s caused by identity fraud or an honest mistake, you’ll want to contact the three major credit bureaus to dispute inaccurate information and have it removed. You can begin by requesting your free credit report.
• Become an authorized user on someone else’s account: A creditworthy family member or friend may be willing to add you as an authorized user. You’ll be able to use their account, but you won’t be responsible for the debt. And their responsible credit usage could help improve your credit score.
• Look into a secured credit card: A secured credit card works like a regular credit card but requires a cash deposit, which may determine the credit line. Using your card responsibly can help raise your credit score.
• Don’t close old accounts: Closing down old credit cards could negatively impact your credit health. The length of your credit history makes up 15% of your FICO Score.

What can you do with a 666 credit score?

The best financing options are typically reserved for borrowers with strong credit. That doesn’t mean you’ll be boxed out if you have a 666 credit score, but knowing what to expect can make things a little easier.

Auto loans with a 666 credit score

It’s more than possible to get an auto loan with bad credit, but you might get stuck with a higher interest rate. The good news is that you’re more likely to qualify for one of our best auto loan rates with a fair credit score.

Source: Experian’s Automotive Finance Market Report Q2 2024

If your credit score is creating a challenge, consider these potential workarounds:

• Save a larger down payment: The more money you put down, the less you have to finance. That could make lenders more likely to work with you. You’ll also have a smaller loan and will pay less interest in the long run.
• Look for a different car: Shop around and compare your options. Going with an older car or a different model might make more financial sense. If you can make a larger down payment, you might also consider leasing a car.

Mortgage loan with a 666 credit score

Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 620 to qualify for a conventional mortgage. If you’ve got a 666 credit score, you’re already above that mark — but you’re less likely to be approved than borrowers with higher scores. You might also face higher interest rates and lower loan amounts.

Here’s a breakdown of minimum credit score requirements by loan type:

If you’re house hunting with bad credit, consider an FHA loan. These mortgages, which are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, have looser credit requirements and flexible down payment options. USDA loans and VA loans are also worth considering.

Personal loan with a 666 credit score

The best personal loan terms usually go to borrowers with the highest credit scores, though it’s possible to get a loan with a lower score. The following table breaks down the average loan amount and interest rate for people with credit scores of 640-619 who got a personal loan through LendingTree.

Source: LendingTree user data on closed personal loans for the second quarter of 2024.

Consider these tips if you’re having trouble qualifying for a personal loan:

• Take steps to improve your credit score. The tips mentioned earlier, like paying down your debt and making on-time payments, can help raise your credit score — and improve your odds of getting approved for a personal loan.
• Consider a cosigner. This is someone who agrees to assume the loan if you stop making your payments. Bringing on a creditworthy cosigner could help you qualify or secure a better interest rate or loan amount.

A 666 credit score isn’t amazing, but it isn’t bad either. You should still have options if you’re applying for financing — but as your score increases, your borrowing power will likely do the same.