660-699 Credit Score
How Close Are You to a ‘Good’ Credit Score?
You’re so close to the coveted 700+ “Good” credit tier – but that last 1-40 point gap could be costing you thousands in extra interest. This guide reveals:
✔ Exactly what financial doors a 660-699 score opens (and which remain shut)
✔ 5 surprisingly fast tricks to cross the 700 threshold
✔ Real APR comparisons showing what you’re overpaying
💰 See Your Potential Savings at 700+
Estimated auto loan APR: 6.5% → 5.2% at 700+
Potential savings: $1,200 over 5 years
Let’s get you into the 700 club!
🔍 What Does a 660-699 Score Really Get You?
This range is the financial “almost there” zone – better than average, but not quite premium.
✅ APPROVED (But Pay More):
• Mortgages: FHA & conventional (but ~0.25% higher APR than 700+)
• Auto Loans: Average 6.5% APR (vs. 5.2% for 700+)
• Unsecured Credit Cards: Basic rewards cards (but rarely premium travel cards)
❌ STILL DIFFICULT:
• Chase Sapphire/American Express Gold cards
• Lowest insurance premiums
• Luxury apartment approvals
🚨 TUIC Errors + Low Credit Score?
CreditScoreIQ helps you build credit faster by reporting utility bills to all 3 bureaus—while you dispute errors.
Start Building Credit Today →💡 Expert Tip:
*”Lenders see 660-699 as ‘medium risk.’ Just 30 more points could save you $1,200 on a car loan.”*
📈 5 Fast Tactics to Hit 700+
1. The “9% Utilization” Hack
- Pay down balances before statement dates to show <9% utilization (vs. common 30% advice)
- Pro Tip: Set calendar reminders for 3 days before statement closes
2. Become an Authorized User
- Get added to a family member’s old, low-utilization card
- ⚠️ Avoid cards with late payments or high balances
3. Dispute “Gray Area” Errors
- Challenge:
- Late payments under $100
- Medical collections under 1 year old
- Use this free template: Sample Dispute Letter
4. Strategic Credit Mix
- Add a credit-builder loan (e.g., Self or Credit Strong)
- Even a $500 loan can boost scores 20+ points
5. Request Limit Increases
- Script:“Hi [Issuer], I’ve been a customer since [date] with on-time payments. Could you review my credit limit?”
- Best targets: Cards you’ve had >6 months
🔗 Need Help Monitoring? Track your progress here.
Check these common culprits:
• Credit cards >30% utilized?
• Old errors on reports?
• Less than 3 credit accounts?
💸 What You’re Overpaying Right Now
A 699 vs. 700 score might seem trivial – but lenders see them differently:
Data sourced from Q2 2023 Federal Reserve reports
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Improve Your Credit?
Disputing TUIC errors is step one. Step two? Boost your score by reporting utility payments with CreditScoreIQ.
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