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644 Credit Score: Is It Good Or Bad (+ Can I Fix It)?

  • A credit score of 644 limits your financial options and makes loans harder to obtain.
  • Improving your score is crucial; focus on timely payments and reducing debt.
  • Call The Credit Pros for personalized strategies that can potentially enhance your score and improve your financial future.

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A credit score of 644 sits in the "fair" range, which limits your financial options. This score can make it tougher to secure loans, mortgages, or good interest rates. Knowing how to improve it is key for your financial health and opens up better opportunities.

To boost your 644 credit score, make timely payments and reduce your debt. Keep your credit utilization below 30%, and check your credit report for mistakes. Think about becoming an authorized user on a strong credit account to take advantage of a positive payment history. These actions can significantly raise your score over time.

Don’t go through this journey by yourself. Call The Credit Pros, and we'll evaluate your entire 3-bureau credit report. We’ll customize our approach to fit your situation and help you with effective strategies to improve your score and overall financial wellbeing.

On This Page:

    Why Is My Credit Score Only 644?

    Your credit score of 644 falls in the "fair" to "poor" range, which can stem from several factors affecting your creditworthiness.

    First, payment history is crucial. Late or missed payments significantly lower your score. You should always pay your bills on time to improve your standing.

    Next, consider credit utilization. If your debt is high compared to your credit limits, it hurts your score. Aim to keep this ratio below 30% for better results.

    Length of credit history also plays a role. A shorter history can negatively impact your score. You should avoid closing old accounts, as this helps maintain a longer average age of your accounts.

    Additionally, a diverse credit mix can boost your score. If possible, try to include various types of credit, like revolving credit and installment loans.

    Lastly, be mindful of recent inquiries. Too many hard inquiries for new credit applications can signal risk. Limit your applications for new credit to improve your score.

    Overall, by addressing these factors, you can work on boosting your score above 644. Stay focused on timely payments, managing your debt, and maintaining a healthy credit mix. Taking consistent steps can lead you to better credit health.

    5 Best Ways To Boost A 644 Credit Score?

    To boost your 644 credit score, you can follow these five effective strategies:

    • Make On-Time Payments: Always pay your bills on time. Late payments hurt your score. Set up autopay or reminders to help you stay on track.

    • Reduce Credit Utilization: Keep your credit utilization below 30%. If you owe $1,000 in credit limits, aim for a balance under $300. Pay down existing debts to lower your utilization.

    • Check Your Credit Report: Review your credit report regularly for errors. Dispute any inaccuracies because they can negatively impact your score. Use services like Experian to monitor your credit.

    • Limit New Credit Applications: Avoid applying for multiple credit accounts quickly. Each application can cause a slight drop in your score. Only apply for what you genuinely need.

    • Consider Becoming an Authorized User: If someone you trust has a good credit card account, ask to become an authorized user. Their positive payment history can benefit your score.

    Implementing these strategies can improve your score over time. As a final point, consistently pay on time, reduce your credit utilization, check for report errors, limit new applications, and consider becoming an authorized user to steadily enhance your credit score.

    Major Factors That Keep My Fair Credit Score Low?

    Several major factors keep your fair credit score low. Here’s what you need to know:

    • Payment History: This factor is the most significant, accounting for about 35% of your score. Late payments, defaults, or delinquencies negatively affect it. Timely payments enhance your score, while missed payments can hurt it for years.

    • Credit Utilization: This accounts for approximately 30% of your score. It measures how much credit you are using compared to your total available credit. High utilization (above 30%) signals to lenders that you're over-reliant on credit, which can lower your score.

    • Length of Credit History: Making up about 15% of your score, this considers how long your credit accounts have been active. A shorter history can decrease your score because it shows less experience in managing credit.

    • Types of Credit: This factor represents about 10% of your score. A mix of credit types (credit cards, loans) showcases your ability to handle various debts, positively influencing your score.

    • New Credit: This accounts for about 10% of your score. Opening many new accounts in a short time can signal risk to lenders, negatively impacting your score.

    To put it simply, focus on making timely payments, managing your credit utilization wisely, building a longer credit history, diversifying your credit types, and being cautious with new credit applications. This approach can lead to a significant improvement in your score and better financial opportunities.

    How Long To Improve My 644 Credit Score 100-150 Points?

    Improving your 644 credit score by 100-150 points can take a few weeks to several months. This timeline depends on factors like your current debts and payment history. Here are key actions you can take:

    • Pay Down Debt: Focus on reducing your credit card balances. Aim to use no more than 30% of your credit limit. You might see a lift in your score within 30 days of making significant payments.

    • Timely Payments: Pay all your bills on time. Late payments have a lasting negative impact, so set up automatic payments or reminders to help you stay on track.

    • Avoid New Debt: Steer clear of accumulating new debt while you work on improving your score. This helps keep your utilization ratio low.

    • Monitor Your Credit: Regularly check your credit report for errors or negative marks. Disputing inaccuracies can help improve your score.

    • Use Experian Boost: This tool lets you gain credit for on-time payments of bills not typically reported, potentially boosting your score quickly.

    By following these steps consistently, you can see significant improvements in a few months.

    In short, to boost your 644 credit score by 100-150 points, focus on paying down debt, making timely payments, avoiding new debt, monitoring your credit, and using tools like Experian Boost. You can take charge and see positive changes!

    Inaccuracies hurting your Credit Score?
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    Can I Realistically Get A Mortgage With A 644 Credit Score?

    Yes, you can realistically get a mortgage with a 644 credit score. Many lenders view your score as fair, allowing for various mortgage options.

    Your score is below average, but it doesn’t automatically disqualify you. Different loan types have varying minimum requirements. For example, FHA loans require at least a score of 580, making you eligible. Conventional loans typically need a minimum score around 620.

    However, securing approval may be challenging due to your subprime credit status. Expect higher interest rates, and you may need a solid down payment. Lenders will closely evaluate your income and debt levels, so demonstrating stable finances can improve your chances.

    Consider exploring options like FHA loans, which are more accommodating for lower credit scores. They usually offer more forgiving terms compared to conventional loans. To finish, don’t hesitate to apply-focus on your overall financial profile alongside your credit score for the best results.

    Can I Get A Personal Loan With A 644 Credit Score?

    Yes, you can get a personal loan with a 644 credit score, but it may be a bit challenging. A score of 644 falls in the "fair" category. Lenders might view you as a moderate risk, which means they may offer loans with higher interest rates or lower amounts.

    To increase your chances of approval, consider these steps:

    • Check Your Credit Report: Look for errors that could hurt your score. If you find inaccuracies, dispute them promptly.

    • Manage Your Debt: Work on reducing existing debts. A lower credit utilization ratio can improve your score.

    • Make Timely Payments: Ensure you make all future payments on time to build a stronger credit history.

    • Evaluate Your Needs: Borrow only what you truly need. This demonstrates to lenders that you are responsible.

    • Choose the Right Lender: Approach banks where you have an existing relationship. They may be more willing to help based on your payment history.

    Lenders have different criteria, so exploring alternative lending platforms that cater to fair credit can also be beneficial. In essence, while a 644 credit score presents challenges, taking proactive steps can help you secure a personal loan.

    Can I Buy Or Lease A Car With A 644 Credit Score?

    Yes, you can buy or lease a car with a 644 credit score. While your score is in the "fair" range, lenders may still approve your application. However, you might face higher interest rates and less favorable terms.

    When you consider leasing, remember that dealers look at your financial situation, including income, job stability, and current debt. Your credit score is just one factor. You can improve your chances of approval by:

    • Making a larger down payment
    • Securing a co-signer with a stronger credit history
    • Shopping around at different dealerships for better offers

    If you qualify for a lease, be prepared for potential conditions like a higher security deposit or increased monthly payments. For buying a car, you may not get the lowest interest rates, but options are still available. Focus on improving your credit score before you apply for better loan terms in the future.

    To wrap up, you can buy or lease a car with a 644 credit score. Consider a larger down payment, explore co-signing options, and shop around to find the best deal for your situation.

    Credit Card (Secured Or Unsecured) Options With A 644 Credit Score?

    With a 644 credit score, you have both secured and unsecured credit card options. You can consider secured credit cards, which require a cash deposit that serves as your credit limit. This lowers risk for lenders and boosts your chances of approval. For instance, the Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card lets you start with a $200 security deposit while earning rewards.

    Unsecured credit cards are also available, though they may come with higher fees and interest rates due to your credit score. The Capital One Platinum Credit Card offers no annual fee and reports to major credit bureaus. Another option is the Citi Double Cash® Card, which provides cash back with no annual fee, although it typically targets slightly higher credit scores.

    Focus on credit cards tailored for fair credit. These options often have more lenient approval criteria, helping you improve your credit score over time. Make sure to compare fees, rewards, and reporting practices to find the best fit for your financial goals. Checking for new offers regularly will help you find the most suitable options.

    On the whole, explore secured and unsecured credit cards designed for fair credit, like Capital One or Citi, to help you manage your finances better and potentially improve your credit score.

    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 Become An Authorized User With A Fair Credit Score?

    You should consider becoming an authorized user even with a fair credit score. Being an authorized user on someone else's credit card can boost your credit score significantly. Research shows that those with fair credit reported nearly an 11% increase in their score within three months of becoming authorized users.

    However, carefully choose your primary account holder. If they miss payments or have a high credit utilization ratio, it could harm your credit score. Verify that the person you select has a solid history of managing their credit responsibly.

    Not every credit card issuer reports authorized user activity to credit bureaus. Check if the issuer reports this information. If it’s reported, you can also improve your credit utilization ratio, which is essential since utilization contributes to about 30% of your credit score.

    Bottom line - becoming an authorized user can strengthen your credit score if you choose the right person wisely and ensure their account is reported to the bureaus.

    Which Negative Marks On My Credit Report Affect My 644 Credit Score?

    Negative marks on your credit report directly affect your 644 credit score. Here are the main factors:

    • Late Payments: A late payment, especially over 30 days, can significantly lower your score. This mark stays on your report for up to seven years.

    • Charge-Offs: If you don't pay a debt, creditors may charge it off as a loss. This negative mark also remains for seven years.

    • Collections: Unpaid debts transferred to collection agencies can severely impact your score. Each collection account reduces your score further.

    • Bankruptcies: Filing for bankruptcy drops your score and stays on your report for seven to ten years, depending on the type.

    • Foreclosures: Losing your home through foreclosure seriously harms your credit and lasts for seven years.

    • Credit Utilization: High balances on your credit cards-especially over 30% of your limit-can negatively influence your score.

    To understand the specific effects of these marks, you should check your credit report. By reviewing your history, you can identify areas for improvement.

    In a nutshell, focus on addressing late payments, avoiding charge-offs, managing collections, and minimizing your credit utilization to boost your score effectively. We’re here to help you navigate this process.

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

    Yes, you should negotiate and pay off debts to improve your fair credit score, but be aware of potential short-term downsides. When you settle a debt, you agree to pay less than what you owe. This reduces your overall debt, but it often results in a negative mark on your credit report.

    Expect a drop in your credit score after settlement because creditors report the debt as "paid-settled" instead of "paid in full." Future lenders may view this negatively. The overall impact on your credit score depends on factors like your current score, the debt size, and your payment history.

    Consider the risks carefully. If your debts are overwhelming, negotiating can provide immediate relief and help you focus on rebuilding your credit. However, if your credit is relatively healthy, maintaining your current payments might better preserve your score.

    You can negotiate directly with your creditor or seek help from a reputable debt resolution professional. Ensure they understand your credit situation and the risks involved. Remember, finding a balance between reducing debt and protecting your credit health is essential.

    All in all, weigh your options carefully. If negotiating helps you regain control, it can be a helpful step towards better credit. Just stay informed and choose the path that best suits your financial situation.

    Best Site To Monitor My Credit Report?

    To find the best site to monitor your credit report, you should consider Credit Karma and AnnualCreditReport.com. Credit Karma offers free credit score monitoring, allowing you to track your TransUnion and Equifax reports. It alerts you to potential errors or identity theft, which helps you act quickly.

    AnnualCreditReport.com, authorized by federal law, lets you access one free credit report from each of the three major bureaus-Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion-once a year. This site is essential for ensuring your credit information's accuracy.

    Both sites are user-friendly and vital for maintaining your financial health. By regularly checking your reports, you can spot inaccuracies early, which may help improve your credit score over time. Services like Experian or Equifax offer monitoring and comprehensive features, but these usually come with a fee.

    The gist of it is that you should regularly monitor your credit report using these resources. Staying on top of your credit is crucial, especially if your score is 644. You empower yourself to make informed financial decisions by utilizing these tools.

    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 Consider A Credit Builder Loan W/ Fair Credit?

    Yes, you should consider a credit builder loan if you have fair credit. These loans help you improve your credit score by proving you can make timely payments. They typically require minimal to no credit history for approval, making them accessible for individuals like you.

    A credit builder loan usually involves borrowing small amounts, typically between $300 and $1,000, with payment terms ranging from six to twenty-four months. Each month, you make fixed payments into a secured savings account. The lender reports these payments to credit bureaus, helping to boost your credit score since payment history significantly impacts your score.

    Before you proceed, assess your financial situation. Ensure you can comfortably make the required monthly payments. Missing payments can hurt your credit score, which defeats your purpose.

    Here are some steps to consider:
    • Compare different lenders to find favorable interest rates and terms.
    • Confirm that the lender reports to all three major credit bureaus.
    • Explore other options like secured credit cards.

    Remember, a credit builder loan can be a strategic step toward improving your fair credit. Focus on making on-time payments, and you'll be on your way to a better credit score.

    Is A 644 Credit Score Different Between Fico And Vantage?

    Yes, a 644 credit score differs between FICO and VantageScore models. Each model employs distinct factors and weightings, leading to potentially varying scores.

    FICO scores range from 300 to 850. You typically see factors such as payment history at 35%, amounts owed at 30%, and length of credit history at 15%. With a 644 FICO score, you may fall into the “fair” credit category.

    VantageScore, also ranging from 300 to 850, uses a different weighting system. It assigns 40% to payment history and only 20% to amounts owed. Thus, a 644 score under VantageScore could imply a slightly different situation than under FICO.

    Both models may consider factors like rent and utility payment history, but their methodologies vary. As a result, you might notice significant differences in scores between the two systems for the same credit profile.

    At the end of the day, remember that lenders often choose their preferred scoring model when assessing your creditworthiness. You should check both FICO and VantageScore to gain a comprehensive understanding of your credit standing.

    Does A 644 Credit Score Affect My Chances Of Renting An Apartment?

    A credit score of 644 can impact your chances of renting an apartment. Many landlords look for a minimum score of 650 for approval. Being just below this mark may raise concerns.

    However, this score doesn't automatically disqualify you. Landlords often consider other factors, such as your income, rental history, and employment status. Showing financial stability can help balance out a lower credit score.

    In competitive rental markets like Boston or San Francisco, higher scores matter more. If your score is 644, be ready to explain any negative credit history. Show how you're managing your current financial responsibilities.

    Some landlords may accept additional deposits or allow co-signers. Open communication with potential landlords can help you navigate the rental application process, despite a fair credit score.

    Lastly, you should focus on highlighting your strengths. Be prepared to discuss your financial situation and demonstrate your reliability as a tenant.

    Can A Credit Repair Company Actually Boost My 'Fair' Score

    Yes, a credit repair company can boost your 'fair' credit score, but there are important caveats. These companies help correct errors on your credit report, which can positively impact your score. If your report has inaccuracies, like incorrect late payments or unfamiliar accounts, a legitimate credit repair service can help you dispute these errors with credit bureaus.

    However, remember that credit repair companies cannot remove accurate negative information from your report. If you have legitimate late payments or accounts in collections, these must stay on your report for a certain time. Be cautious, as some credit repair companies make bold claims and may charge high fees without guaranteeing results.

    Before hiring a service, review your credit report yourself. You can request free reports annually and dispute errors for free. Consider whether spending on a credit repair company is worth it, as you might handle many issues independently.

    If you decide to proceed, make sure the credit repair company is reputable. Research their credentials, read customer reviews, and avoid those that ask for upfront fees.

    Finally, you can take proactive steps to improve your credit score by disputing errors, researching companies, and staying informed about your credit report. Your persistence will pay off in the long run.

    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.

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