What Is a 644 Credit Score and What Does It Mean?

A credit score numerically represents an individual’s creditworthiness, indicating the likelihood of repaying borrowed funds. Lenders use this three-digit number to assess risk.

Understanding the 644 Credit Score

A 644 credit score falls into the “Fair” credit category for major scoring models like FICO and VantageScore. FICO scores range from 300 to 850, with a fair score typically between 580 and 669. VantageScore models also range from 300 to 850, with a fair score often between 601 and 660. This score is below the average U.S. credit score, which was 715 for FICO in April 2025.

A 644 credit score suggests a mixed credit history, potentially including past issues like late payments or high debt. Lenders view individuals with this score as higher-risk borrowers, which influences the terms and conditions for financial products. Approximately 17% of consumers have FICO Scores in the Fair range, and about 27% of them are likely to become seriously delinquent.

How Credit Scores Are Determined

Credit scores are calculated based on various factors from an individual’s credit report. Payment history is a primary determinant, accounting for about 35% of a FICO score. Consistently making payments on time is crucial, as even a single missed payment can negatively impact a score.

Credit utilization, or the amount of debt owed, is another significant factor, representing approximately 30% of a FICO score. This ratio compares the total amount of credit used against the total available credit. Maintaining a credit utilization rate below 30% is advised, as higher rates can significantly lower a score.

The length of credit history contributes about 15% to a FICO score. A longer history of responsible credit management positively influences a score. This factor considers the age of the oldest account and the average age of all accounts.

New credit, reflecting recent applications and newly opened accounts, makes up approximately 10% of a FICO score. Multiple credit inquiries in a short period can slightly reduce a score. However, scoring models treat multiple inquiries for specific loans, like mortgages or auto loans, as a single event.

Finally, the credit mix, or the types of credit accounts maintained, accounts for about 10% of a FICO score. This includes a blend of revolving credit, like credit cards, and installment loans, such as mortgages or car loans. While a diverse mix can be beneficial, it is not advisable to open new accounts solely for this purpose.

Implications for Financial Products

A 644 credit score leads to less favorable terms for financial products compared to those with higher scores. For personal loans, individuals with a 644 score may face higher interest rates and lower loan amounts. Lenders might approve these loans, but often require strong qualifications regarding income and existing debts.

For auto loans, a 644 score generally allows for approval, but at significantly higher interest rates than those offered to borrowers with good credit. While an excellent score might secure a rate around 4% or less, a 644 score could result in interest rates ranging from 4.68% to 11.92% or higher. This difference can substantially increase the total cost of the vehicle over the loan term.

Mortgage options are more limited with a 644 credit score, as many conventional lenders prefer higher scores. Individuals in this range might find it challenging to qualify for the most competitive rates. For instance, a $300,000 mortgage could carry an average interest rate between 3.317% and 4.293% with a 620-669 score, compared to a 2.704% rate for someone with excellent credit. Government-backed loans, such as FHA loans, may offer more accessible paths to homeownership for those with fair credit.

Accessing credit cards with a 644 score is possible, but often comes with less attractive conditions. Applicants may be approved for basic or secured credit cards, which require an upfront security deposit. These cards frequently have higher annual percentage rates (APRs), potentially ranging from 16.5% to 20.5%, and may include annual fees. This contrasts with excellent credit, which can yield average credit card interest rates around 13.5%.

Accessing and Reviewing Your Credit Information

Individuals can obtain official credit reports from the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) entitles consumers to a free credit report from each bureau once every 12 months. Access these reports through AnnualCreditReport.com, the only authorized website for free reports. Regularly reviewing these reports is important for accuracy and to understand the underlying data contributing to a credit score.

Credit reports detail an individual’s credit accounts, payment history, public records, and inquiries. Examining this information allows for the identification of discrepancies or errors, such as incorrect personal details, accounts not opened by the consumer, or inaccurate payment statuses. If errors are found, consumers have the right to dispute them directly with the credit bureau and the information provider.

While credit reports provide raw data, credit scores are separate numerical representations. Many credit card issuers and banks offer free access to credit scores, often updated monthly. Various financial websites also provide free credit scores, typically based on VantageScore models. Understanding both the report and the score helps individuals monitor their financial health and identify areas for improvement.