A bad credit score makes everything more expensive — loans, credit cards, apartments, even car insurance in some states. But “bad” is not one number. Here is exactly where the line is, what each range means for your wallet, and the fastest ways to move up.
What Is Considered a Bad Credit Score?
For the widely used FICO score (300–850):
- 300–579: Poor (bad). Very difficult to get approved for most credit; when approved, rates are the highest.
- 580–669: Fair. Not “bad” on paper, but below what counts as a good credit score (670+) — you will pay noticeably more than borrowers with good scores.
- 670–739: Good. Approved for most products at reasonable rates.
- 740–799: Very good. Better-than-average rates.
- 800–850: Exceptional. The best terms available.
So is 600 a bad credit score? Technically it is “fair,” not “poor” — but lenders still treat it as subprime, and you will pay hundreds or thousands more in interest than someone at 700. If your score starts with a 5, it is firmly bad and needs a repair plan.
What a Bad Credit Score Costs You
- Higher interest rates: a borrower at 620 can pay 2–4 percentage points more on an auto loan than a borrower at 720 — thousands over the loan.
- Denied applications: many credit cards and personal loans auto-decline scores under 580–620.
- Bigger deposits: landlords and utility companies often require larger security deposits from low-score applicants.
- Missed housing: some landlords set minimums around 620–650.
- Higher insurance premiums: in most states, insurers can use credit-based scores to price auto and home policies.
For the full breakdown of how scores are calculated, see what your credit score number actually means.
7 Proven Ways to Fix a Bad Credit Score
1. Pay every bill on time
Payment history is 35% of your FICO score — the single biggest factor. One 30-day late payment can drop a score by 60–100+ points. Set autopay for at least the minimums.
2. Get utilization under 30% — then under 10%
Owing $900 on a $1,000 limit signals risk even if you pay in full. Pay balances down before your statement closing date, not just the due date.
3. Dispute errors on your reports
About 1 in 5 reports contains an error. Pull your free reports, dispute anything wrong in writing, and follow up — removals can lift scores fast.
4. Add positive history with a secured card
A secured card with a small deposit reports like a regular card. Six to twelve months of on-time payments builds a track record from scratch.
5. Become an authorized user
Being added to a family member’s old, well-managed card can import years of good history to your file.
6. Stop applying for new credit
Each application adds a hard inquiry. A cluster of inquiries while your score is low just adds damage with little chance of approval.
7. Don’t close old accounts
Closing your oldest card shortens your credit history and raises utilization — both hurt. Keep old cards open with a small recurring charge.
Want the full playbook? Read our proven ways to improve your credit score for timelines and advanced tactics.
How Long Does It Take to Fix a Bad Score?
Removing an error or paying down a maxed-out card can lift a score within 30–60 days. Rebuilding from serious damage (collections, charge-offs) typically takes 6–24 months of consistent on-time payments. There are no legitimate overnight fixes — anyone promising one is selling something.
Educational content only, not financial advice. Consider speaking with a nonprofit credit counselor (NFCC member agencies offer free or low-cost help).