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573 Credit Score: Good Or Bad (Can I Fix It)?

  • A credit score of 573 indicates poor credit health.
  • Improve your score by paying bills on time and managing credit wisely.
  • Contact The Credit Pros for personalized advice on improving your credit.

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A credit score of 573 shows poor credit health. This score comes from missed payments, high credit utilization, and negative marks like collections or charge-offs. Address these issues quickly, or your score could drop even further.

To bounce back from a 573 credit score, pay your bills on time and keep your credit utilization below 30%. Check your credit report regularly for errors and dispute any inaccuracies. You might also want to look into secured credit cards or become an authorized user on a responsible account to help boost your score over time.

The best move you can make is to reach out to The Credit Pros. We’ll chat about your credit report without any pressure and give you advice tailored to your situation. Call us for a thorough evaluation so you can kickstart your journey to a better score.

On This Page:

    Why Is My Credit Score Only 573?

    Your credit score is 573 due to several factors that negatively affect it. Understanding these factors helps you improve your score.

    First, your payment history is critical. If you miss payments or pay late, it significantly lowers your score. You should pay your bills on time. Setting up automatic payments or reminders can help you stay on track.

    Next, assess your credit utilization, which is the amount of credit you’re using compared to your total available credit. Aim to keep your utilization below 30%. High credit card balances hurt your score, so you should focus on paying down existing debt.

    Negative marks on your credit report, such as bankruptcies or collections, also lower your score. Regularly monitoring your credit report for errors and disputing inaccuracies is essential.

    Additionally, having a longer credit history benefits your score. If you have few credit accounts or new credit, it can negatively influence your score. You should consider keeping older accounts open to enhance your credit history length.

    Lastly, focus on paying bills on time, maintaining low credit utilization, monitoring your credit report, and keeping older accounts open. These steps empower you to improve your credit score over time.

    5 Best Ways To Recover From A 573 Credit Score?

    To recover from a 573 credit score, you can follow these five best ways:

    1. **Pay Your Bills on Time:** Commit to making all your payments on time. Late payments significantly damage your credit score. Use automatic payments or reminders to help you stay organized.

    2. **Reduce Your Debt:** Focus on paying down existing debts, especially high-interest ones. You can adopt either the Debt Avalanche method (tackling high-interest debts first) or the Debt Snowball approach (starting with smaller debts for motivation).

    3. **Check Your Credit Report for Errors:** Obtain your free credit reports from the three major bureaus. Review them thoroughly for inaccuracies and dispute any errors you find. Fixing incorrect information helps improve your score.

    4. **Keep Credit Utilization Low:** Maintain your credit balance below 30% of your total credit limit. Aim to pay down your balances before the statement date to ensure a lower utilization rate is reported.

    5. **Consider a Secured Credit Card or Becoming an Authorized User:** A secured credit card requires a deposit but can help rebuild your credit if used wisely. Alternatively, ask someone with good credit to add you as an authorized user on their card to benefit from their positive payment history.

    Finally, by consistently paying on time, reducing debt, checking for errors, keeping utilization low, and exploring secured options, you set yourself up for a healthier credit score and financial future.

    Major Factors That Keep My Credit Score So Low?

    Several major factors keep your credit score low at 573. Understanding these will help you take steps to improve it.

    Your payment history holds a significant weight (35%) on your score. Making timely payments is crucial. Late payments, defaults, and collections negatively impact your record. Even missing a payment for 30 days can harm your score.

    Credit utilization impacts 30% of your score. This refers to how much credit you’re using compared to your total available credit. Aim to keep your utilization below 30%. For example, if your total credit limit is $10,000, keep your total balance under $3,000. Higher utilization may prompt lenders to perceive you as a higher risk.

    The length of your credit history accounts for 15% of your score. A shorter history can lower your score since lenders prefer seeing a longer, responsible track record. Keep your older accounts open to help build this history.

    Credit mix contributes 10% to your score. Having various types of credit—like credit cards, auto loans, and mortgages—can enhance your score. If you only have one type of credit, you might not maximize your score’s potential.

    New credit inquiries also impact 10% of your score. Frequently applying for new credit can lead to hard inquiries, which temporarily lower your score. Multiple inquiries in a short time can make you seem like a high-risk borrower.

    Big picture—you should focus on making timely payments, keeping your credit utilization low, maintaining a long credit history, diversifying your credit types, and limiting new inquiries. Taking action in these areas will help improve your credit score.

    Can My 573 Credit Score Drop Any Lower (Can I Prevent It)

    Your 573 credit score can indeed drop lower if you encounter negative credit events. Late payments, missed payments, and high credit utilization are key factors that can cause your score to decrease. Since payment history makes up 35% of your credit score, a single late payment can have a significant impact. Moreover, keeping your credit utilization above 30% can trigger a decline as well.

    To prevent your score from dropping further, focus on the following action steps:

    • Make timely payments by setting up automatic payments or reminders.
    • Monitor your credit utilization and keep it below 30% by reducing your balances.
    • Regularly check your credit report for inaccuracies and dispute any errors you find.
    • Limit the number of hard inquiries on your credit report to avoid signaling financial distress.

    By practicing these habits, you can stabilize your 573 credit score and work toward improving it over time. Overall, prioritize timely payments, manage your credit utilization, and regularly monitor your credit report to safeguard your score. You’ve got this!

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    How Long Will It Take To Improve My 573 Credit Score?

    Improving your 573 credit score takes time, and results vary for each person. With dedicated effort, you might notice changes in just one month. However, some factors can lead to a longer timeline, taking several months or even years.

    Your current credit practices, negative marks on your credit report, and the steps you take all influence how quickly your score improves. If you consistently make on-time payments, your score can rise more rapidly. If you face serious issues, like bankruptcies, full recovery might take up to ten years.

    To speed up the process, consider these actions:
    • Regularly check your credit report for errors and dispute inaccuracies.
    • Keep your credit card balances low.
    • Build a history of timely payments.

    As a final point, focus on checking your credit report, maintaining low balances, and paying on time to help improve your score more effectively. Stay dedicated, and you'll see progress over time.

    Can I Realistically Get A Mortgage With A 573 Credit Score?

    Getting a mortgage with a 573 credit score is challenging but not impossible. A score below 580 is considered poor, making you a high-risk borrower in the eyes of lenders. This greatly reduces your chances of qualifying for a conventional mortgage. Major lenders like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac usually require a minimum score of 620. FHA loans might allow scores as low as 500 but require a larger down payment.

    If you pursue a mortgage, expect higher interest rates and fees. Lenders may ask for a down payment of at least 10% instead of the standard 3.5% if your score is below 580. It’s crucial for you to demonstrate income stability, as lenders will focus on that in addition to your credit score.

    You can explore options with specialized lenders or credit unions that may be more flexible. They might consider your overall financial situation, including your income and lower debt-to-income ratio.

    To put it simply, while getting approved for a mortgage with a 573 credit score is tough, you still have options. You should focus on improving your financial situation and explore lenders who might be willing to work with you.

    Can I Get A Personal Loan With A 573 Credit Score?

    Yes, you can get a personal loan with a 573 credit score, but your options may be limited. Lenders typically view a 573 credit score as poor. This means you will likely encounter higher interest rates and less favorable loan terms compared to borrowers with better scores.

    You should look for lenders who specialize in loans for individuals with lower credit scores. These lenders often have more flexible requirements. To boost your chances of approval, highlight your positive financial attributes, like steady income or a low debt-to-income ratio.

    Some lenders may also consider your overall financial situation along with your credit score. Using platforms like Acorn Finance can help you find suitable lenders quickly, without harming your credit score.

    Keep in mind that while obtaining a loan is possible, the terms may not be ideal. You might face higher fees and interest rates. Therefore, weigh these factors carefully before applying for a loan.

    In short, you can secure a personal loan with a 573 credit score by seeking specialized lenders, showcasing your strengths, and being mindful of the loan terms you may face.

    Can I Buy Or Lease A Car With A 573 Credit Score?

    Yes, you can buy or lease a car with a 573 credit score, but you will face challenges. A score of 573 is below average, which typically results in higher interest rates and less favorable terms compared to those with higher scores.

    When leasing, lenders prefer applicants with scores in the 661 to 780 range. However, they also consider factors such as your income, employment history, and debt-to-income ratio. If your score is low, be prepared for either a larger down payment or a higher monthly payment to offset the lender's risk.

    For buying, auto loans are generally more accessible for lower credit scores than mortgages. You can secure a loan, but expect significantly higher interest rates. For instance, the average APR for someone with a score in the 500-589 range can soar to 17.54%.

    To finish, while you can buy or lease a car with a 573 credit score, anticipate higher costs and limited options. Focus on improving your credit score for better deals in the future as you explore your car financing options.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    What Is The Best Method To Fix A 573 Credit Score?

    To fix a credit score of 573, you start by pulling your credit report from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Check for errors that might lower your score. If you find inaccuracies, dispute them with the credit bureaus and your lender. Correcting errors is crucial for score improvement.

    Next, prioritize making on-time payments. Late payments can significantly harm your credit score. Set up automatic payments or reminders to stay current on your bills. Consistent on-time payments help improve your score over time.

    Reduce your credit card balances. Aim to keep your credit utilization below 30% of your total credit limit. You can pay off smaller debts first to relieve financial pressure.

    Consider using a secured credit card. This card can help you rebuild credit, as it requires a cash deposit that serves as your credit limit. Use it responsibly and pay it off in full each month.

    Lastly, reach out to a reputable credit repair company for assistance. We advise you to be cautious, as some companies may not provide effective help. The Credit Pros is a recommended option that could assist you in improving your credit score.

    In essence, check your credit report for errors, make timely payments, reduce card balances, consider a secured credit card, and seek guidance from a trusted credit repair company to improve your 573 credit score effectively.

    Credit Card (Secured Or Unsecured) Options With A 573 Credit Score?

    With a credit score of 573, your best option for a credit card is a secured credit card. Unsecured credit cards usually require higher scores, making them hard to qualify for. Here’s what you need to know:

    • Secured Credit Cards: These require a cash deposit that becomes your credit limit. For example, a $500 deposit gives you a $500 limit. They are easier to get approved for and help you build or rebuild your credit. Many secured cards, like the Discover it® Secured Credit Card, offer perks such as cash back rewards and no annual fees.

    • Unsecured Credit Cards: These cards do not require a deposit but aren't typically available to those with a 573 score. If you do find one, expect high fees and interest rates.

    To improve your score, focus on secured cards. Making on-time payments will positively impact your credit report, increasing your chances of qualifying for an unsecured card later.

    Another option is to become an authorized user on a family member's credit card. This allows you to benefit from their positive payment history, which can help boost your score.

    To wrap up, concentrate on secured credit cards to build your credit. Consider becoming an authorized user on someone else's account to further support your credit journey. With patience and consistent payments, you can improve your credit score over time.

    Should I Become An Authorized User With A Poor Credit Score?

    Becoming an authorized user on someone else's credit card can indeed help improve your credit score, even if you have a poor credit history. This option allows you to benefit from the primary account holder's positive credit practices, like on-time payments and low credit utilization. However, it's essential to consider a few factors before deciding.

    **Pros:**
    • You can boost your credit score through the primary cardholder's positive credit history.
    • Your credit utilization ratio may improve, which significantly impacts credit scoring.
    • You gain this benefit without needing to apply for your own credit card.

    **Cons:**
    • If the primary cardholder misses payments or has high balances, it could negatively affect your credit.
    • Not all credit card issuers report authorized user activity to credit bureaus, so confirm this beforehand.
    • A poor credit history may lessen the impact of being an authorized user, as negative records can outweigh benefits.

    If you trust someone with good credit who is willing to add you as an authorized user, this can be a viable option. Just ensure they manage their credit responsibly and check if the credit issuer reports to the bureaus to maximize your potential gains.

    On the whole, weigh the pros and cons, seek a reliable primary cardholder, and confirm reporting practices to make an informed decision about boosting your credit score as an authorized user.

    Which Negative Marks On My Credit Report Affect My 573 Score?

    Negative marks on your credit report that affect your 573 score include:

    • Missed Payments: If you miss a payment, it stays on your report for up to 7.5 years and can significantly damage your score, especially if recent.

    • Charge-Offs: When you default on a debt, creditors may write it off as a loss. This remains on your report for 7 years.

    • Collections: If an unpaid account goes to a collection agency, it will stay on your report for 7 years, further hurting your score.

    • Bankruptcy: Chapter 7 bankruptcy impacts your score for 10 years, while Chapter 13 affects it for 7 years. Both severely reduce your score.

    • Foreclosure: A foreclosure can appear on your report for 7 years and indicates a serious financial misstep.

    • Repossessions: If a lender takes back an item due to non-payment, it stays for 7 years and harms your score.

    • High Credit Utilization: Using over 30% of your available credit can negatively impact your score, even without missed payments.

    To improve your score, focus on addressing these negative marks. Regularly check your credit report for errors and dispute any inaccuracies. Make timely payments and reduce your credit utilization to start rebuilding your credit effectively.

    Bottom line: Address missed payments, charge-offs, and collections to improve your score. Stay proactive by checking for errors and managing your credit wisely.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    Should I Negotiate And Pay Off Debts To Improve My Bad Credit Score?

    Yes, you should negotiate and pay off debts to improve your bad credit score. This often involves reaching out to your creditors to negotiate lower payments that fit your budget. For instance, you might ask them to accept a lump sum payment that is less than what you owe. This can relieve some of your financial stress.

    Keep in mind that settling a debt can hurt your credit score. When you settle a debt for less than the full amount, your credit report shows it as "settled." This can indicate to future lenders that you didn't fully repay your debts, potentially lowering your score.

    Consider your options carefully. Paying off the full amount is usually better for your credit score because it shows you met your obligations. Accounts marked as “paid in full” signal to lenders that you successfully managed your debts.

    You might also want to explore non-profit credit counseling agencies. They can help you negotiate debt settlements and create a manageable repayment plan without high fees associated with for-profit debt settlement companies.

    Ultimately, focus on what works for you. If negotiating settlements helps you avoid missed payments, it may positively impact your situation, despite the initial negative effect on your score. In a nutshell, prioritize negotiating and paying off debts to improve your credit score, but aim to pay in full when possible for the best long-term results.

    Best Site To Monitor My Credit Report?

    For monitoring your credit report, you should use CreditWise from Capital One. This free service provides real-time updates without requiring a credit card. CreditWise is especially useful as it offers dark web scanning, alerting you if your personal information is compromised.

    Another excellent choice is Experian's free credit monitoring service. You receive alerts for changes in your credit report, along with a one-time dark web surveillance report. You can also visit annualcreditreport.com to obtain a free report from each major credit bureau once a year. This allows you to check your credit status regularly at no cost.

    For comprehensive analysis and additional support, consider reaching out to The Credit Pros. They specialize in credit monitoring and analyze your full report, offering personalized advice on improving your score.

    All in all, utilize CreditWise or Experian for free monitoring, check annualcreditreport.com, and consider The Credit Pros for in-depth analysis. Taking these steps empowers you to manage your credit health effectively!

    Should I Consider A Credit Builder Loan?

    Yes, you should consider a credit builder loan, especially if your credit score is low, like 573. A credit builder loan helps you build credit when you have little or no credit history. By making regular payments, you improve your payment history, which is the most significant factor in your credit score, making up 35% of it.

    These loans are typically offered by smaller banks and credit unions, ranging from $300 to $1,000, with terms of 6 to 24 months. You usually don’t need good credit for approval, but lenders will assess your income and employment history. You can qualify even with a low score or no credit history.

    Keep in mind that you will pay interest on the loan, which increases the total amount you repay. However, the primary goal is to establish a positive credit record. After completing your payments, you'll gain access to the money you initially deposited. A credit builder loan can significantly enhance your chances of securing future loans and credit cards at better rates.

    The gist of it is that if you’re looking to improve your low credit score, a credit builder loan can be a practical step. You make regular payments, build your credit history, and eventually access the funds. Taking this action can set you on a path toward better financial opportunities.

    Is A 573 Credit Score Different Between Fico And Vantage

    Yes, a 573 credit score differs between FICO and VantageScore models. The FICO score assesses your credit history through detailed factors like payment history and amounts owed. In contrast, the VantageScore evaluates credit behavior with a simpler approach, considering fewer variables.

    Both scores range from 300 to 850, and a score of 573 is below average in each model. FICO scores typically offer more detail, while VantageScore might include non-traditional credit factors, such as utility payments. This variance means that lenders may view your creditworthiness differently based on which scoring model they prioritize.

    Understanding these differences is crucial, especially if you are seeking loans or credit options. You can find specific scenarios, like applying for a mortgage or personal loan with a 573 score, in later sections. Remember to check which score model your lender uses to improve your chances of securing credit.

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
    Securely review your full 3-bureau Credit Report (with a real expert).

    By clicking ‘Get Started’ I agree by electronic signature to: (1) be contacted by The Credit Pros by a live agent, artificial or prerecorded voice, and SMS text at my residential or cellular number, dialed manually or by autodialer even if my phone number is on a do-not-call registry (consent to be contacted is not a condition to purchase services); and (2) the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

    Will A 573 Credit Score Affect My Chances Of Renting An Apartment?

    A 573 credit score can negatively impact your chances of renting an apartment. Most landlords prefer tenants with a credit score above 670. Since your score is on the lower end, it may raise concerns about your financial reliability.

    In competitive rental markets, a 573 score makes it harder for you to get approved. You might face larger security deposit requests or even outright denials. However, some landlords may still consider applicants with lower scores if you can show stability in other areas, like a good income or rental history.

    To improve your chances, be upfront about your credit score. Consider providing extra documentation that demonstrates your payment history or steady income. Securing a co-signer with a better credit score can also strengthen your application.

    At the end of the day, a 573 credit score presents challenges, but it doesn't automatically rule you out from renting an apartment. By addressing concerns proactively and showcasing your strengths, you can still find opportunities for housing.

    Can A Credit Repair Company Actually Boost My Low Score

    Yes, a credit repair company can boost your low credit score, but only if there are inaccuracies on your credit report. They can dispute any incorrect or erroneous negative items. If successful, your score may improve.

    Be aware that these companies can only address inaccuracies. If your report shows accurate negative information—like late payments or defaults—they cannot change those entries.

    You can dispute errors on your own for free, which can save you money. If you're feeling overwhelmed, a legitimate credit repair company can help manage disputes and provide personalized strategies for improving your score.

    Just be cautious of scams. Choose a licensed credit repair service that operates transparently, as not all companies fulfill their promises.

    Lastly, if there are inaccuracies on your credit report, working with a credit repair company can be beneficial. Verify your report's details and see if professional help aligns with your needs.

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