Financial Planning and Analysis

What Can I Get With a 671 Credit Score?

Explore the real-world financial implications of a 671 credit score on your borrowing power and options.

A credit score serves as a numerical representation of an individual’s creditworthiness, providing lenders with an assessment of the risk associated with extending credit. This three-digit number, typically ranging from 300 to 850, is a foundational element in financial decisions, influencing everything from loan approvals to interest rates. This article will explore the specific financial opportunities and implications associated with a 671 credit score.

Understanding Your 671 Credit Score

A 671 credit score positions an individual within the “Good” range for both the widely used FICO and VantageScore models. For FICO, a score of 671 falls just above the 670 threshold for “Good” credit, which extends up to 739. Similarly, VantageScore classifies scores between 661 and 780 as “Good.”

While a 671 score is considered good, it resides at the lower end of this category, meaning there is substantial room for improvement. Although a 671 score suggests responsible credit management, it does not typically unlock the most favorable terms or lowest interest rates available to those with “Very Good” or “Exceptional” credit scores.

Credit Card Opportunities

Individuals with a 671 credit score generally find a range of credit card opportunities available to them. Many general-purpose credit cards are accessible, as lenders perceive this score as indicating a relatively low-risk borrower. While approval is likely, premium cards offering the most extensive rewards programs or the absolute lowest Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) may require a higher credit score.

Typical interest rates for unsecured credit cards with a 671 score might be moderately higher compared to those offered to borrowers with excellent credit. Credit limits may also be more modest, often ranging from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars, rather than the higher limits extended to those with top-tier scores. Secured credit cards, which require a cash deposit as collateral, remain an option and can be useful for further building credit.

Loan and Mortgage Eligibility

Personal Loans

A 671 credit score generally allows access to personal loans. While approval is probable, the interest rates offered will likely be higher than those extended to borrowers with excellent credit. Average personal loan rates for individuals with a 700 FICO score were around 12.57% in August 2025, but rates can vary significantly, potentially ranging up to 21.74% or more depending on the lender and specific terms. Loan amounts can range from a few thousand dollars up to tens of thousands, with specific limits often tied to income and debt-to-income ratios.

Auto Loans

Obtaining an auto loan is typically feasible with a 671 credit score. This score falls within the “Prime” or “Good” category for auto lending, indicating a borrower who is generally reliable. However, interest rates will likely be above the lowest advertised rates. For instance, in the first quarter of 2025, average new car loan interest rates for those with a 661-780 VantageScore were around 6.70%, while used car rates were about 9.06%.

Mortgages

A 671 credit score is often sufficient for mortgage eligibility, though it sits at the lower end of what is considered favorable. For conventional loans, a minimum credit score of 620 is generally required, so a 671 score meets this threshold. However, lenders may impose stricter underwriting criteria or offer higher interest rates compared to borrowers with scores above 700 or 740, who typically qualify for the most competitive rates.

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans are more accessible, often requiring a minimum FICO score of 580 for a 3.5% down payment, making a 671 score well within their guidelines. While a mortgage is attainable, the terms, including interest rates and potentially down payment requirements for conventional loans, will reflect the moderate risk associated with this score. For example, Fannie Mae guidelines may cap debt-to-income ratios at 36% for scores below 720, impacting borrowing capacity.

Other Financial Impacts

Beyond traditional lending, a 671 credit score influences various other aspects of financial life. When applying for rental housing, landlords frequently review credit scores to assess a prospective tenant’s financial reliability. A 671 score is generally considered acceptable by many landlords, though some may prefer higher scores, particularly in competitive rental markets.

Insurance companies often use credit-based insurance scores to help determine premiums for auto and other types of insurance. A 671 credit score, being in the “Good” range, typically results in more favorable insurance premiums than for individuals with lower scores. However, those with higher credit scores may still qualify for even lower rates, as a higher credit-based insurance score is associated with a lower likelihood of filing claims.

Utility companies, such as those providing electricity, gas, or water services, may conduct a credit check when establishing new service. While a 671 score is unlikely to result in service denial, it might lead to a requirement for a security deposit. This deposit, which can range from under $100 to several hundred dollars, serves to mitigate the perceived risk of non-payment by the utility provider. These credit checks are typically “soft inquiries” and do not negatively impact the credit score.

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