A 780 credit score is a very good credit score. Financial institutions view this type of score favorably.
A very good credit score is almost excellent, which means you are low risk.
Low-risk borrowers have a history of successfully managing their finances and are likely to honor their debt obligations. As a result, you may experience an easy approval process with almost any lender and get better than average loan terms.
Key Takeaways for a 780 Credit Score
Overview of Your
Credit Rating
780 is a “very good” FICO Score and an “excellent” VantageScore. Very good scores are indicative that you have a long history of responsibly managing your finances.
Borrowing Options With a
780 Credit Score
Your score gives you higher approval odds than someone with an average credit score. You may qualify for almost any installment loan option with low-interest rates.
Improving a 780
Credit/FICO Score
You can maintain your credit score by keeping your credit utilization in check and avoiding late payments on monthly bills. Over time, you could get an "excellent" credit rating.
Is a 780 Credit Score Good?
A 780 score is better than good. A “good” score ranges from 670 to 739. But if you have a 780 score, you are in the second-best credit rating category, which is “very good.” You can obtain an “excellent” credit score over time by continuing to maintain a history of good credit management. The “excellent” credit category includes credit scores between 800 and 850, which are deemed perfect.
What Can You Get Approved for With a 780 Credit Score?
These are some of the financial products you can qualify for with a 780 score:
Personal Loans
A personal loan is a great financing option because it can be used for almost any emergency situation. These online loans can provide anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, and APRs typically run from 4% to 36%.¹ Borrowers with excellent credit scores are likely to get the loan amount they want with low rates. But remember that borrowing more than you need can result in excess debt and interest fees.
Bank Loans
Banks typically require good credit for installment loans. As a borrower with a very good credit rating, you may qualify for all types of bank loans, such as mortgages and home equity loans.
Credit Cards
Credit card issuers generally reserve the best offers for high credit borrowers. Exclusive credit cards with strict credit requirements can provide you with the best rewards and the lowest APRs. But keep in mind that some may require an annual fee.
These are some of the best credit cards for good to excellent credit scores:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
- Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
- Amex EveryDay® Credit Card
Auto Loans
Auto loans can have high interest rates. And unfortunately, if you want to buy a used car, your rate will be steeper. But, having an excellent credit history can help you get a decent annual percentage rate (APR) that significantly reduces your interest fees.
Products To Help Maintain a 780 Credit Score
These are some financial products that can help you maintain your current credit rating:
Credit Monitoring
Monitoring your credit can help you track your credit position. Noticing significant changes can also alert you of issues that require immediate action, such as fraudulent activity. You can view your FICO Score on your monthly credit card or loan statement and through certain online credit accounts.
Budgeting Apps
A budgeting app can help you better manage your finances and prevent overspending. Using too much credit can decrease your FICO Score and prevent you from obtaining excellent credit. However, using a budgeting app can help you set financial goals and monitor your spending.
Automatic Payments
Your payment history is the most important factor for most credit scoring models. Setting up automatic payments (autopay) can help you avoid late fees and negative entries on your credit report.
Benefits of a 780 Credit Score
These are some of the exclusive benefits you can get with a 780 score:
Lower Insurance Premiums
High scores can help consumers save on more than just loans and credit cards. According to a Bankrate study, drivers with poor credit pay 97% more, on average, for full coverage car insurance premiums compared to drivers with exceptional credit.²
Better Credit Card Rewards
Rewards credit cards can help cardholders save a lot of money and get various perks. However, higher credit scores are generally required for qualification. Take a look at some rewards you can expect with credit cards below.
Credit Card Type | Rewards Type | Key Features |
Cash Back | Cash | – High cash back rates in specific categories (e.g., groceries, dining, gas) or a flat rate on all purchases. – Possible sign-up bonuses. |
Travel | Points/Miles | – Earn points or miles on every purchase, with higher rates in categories like travel and dining. – Benefits may include travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and airport lounge access. – Sign-up bonuses often include a large number of points or miles. |
Points | Points | – Earn points on every purchase, with some cards offering higher rates in specific categories. – Points can be redeemed for merchandise, gift cards, travel, or even cash back. – Often includes sign-up bonuses in points. |
Better Housing Opportunities
Higher credit scores can make the application process for rental units much more effortless. Most landlords require at least good credit for consideration. If you have a 780 score, you may get preferential treatment and faster approval.
How To Maintain Your 780 Credit Score
Here are some tips to help you maintain your very good credit:
Limit Credit Applications
Knowing you have so many financing options available to you may tempt you to apply for more credit accounts. While checking your own credit will not affect your score, a lender running a hard credit check on you will knock a few points off your credit score.
Keep Your Credit Utilization Low
When borrowers use more than 30% of their total credit limits, their credit scores can decrease. If you want to maintain good credit, keeping your outstanding credit card debt low is essential.
Keep Old Accounts Open
While it’s tempting to close old financial accounts you don’t use, know that doing so can negatively affect your credit. Closing old accounts will change the average length of your credit history and increase your credit utilization. It’s better to keep your accounts open and in good standing to maintain your current credit score.
FAQs About 780 Credit Scores
How does a 780 score affect my credit limit on new credit cards or loans?
With a 780 score, you’re viewed favorably by lenders, which often means you can qualify for higher credit limits on new credit cards or loans. This score indicates you’re a low-risk borrower, encouraging lenders to offer you more generous terms. Remember, the final credit limit also considers your income and existing debts.
Can having a 780 score impact the credit mix in my credit report?
Absolutely! A 780 score shows you’ve managed your credit well, which might make you a good candidate for different types of financial products. Diversifying your credit mix—by responsibly using a mix of credit cards and installment loans—can further strengthen your credit profile.
Will all lenders view my 780 score the same way, or do different scoring models affect this?
While a 780 score is generally considered very good, different lenders might use different scoring models, such as FICO or VantageScore, which can lead to slight variations in how your creditworthiness is viewed. However, a 780 score is strong across most models, positioning you well for favorable terms.
What products are best suited for someone with a 780 score looking to reach 800?
If you’re aiming for excellent scores, consider credit products that reward good financial behavior and fit your lifestyle. For instance, a credit card offering rewards for paying on time or loans with no prepayment penalties can be beneficial. Always choose products that encourage and reward responsible credit use without tempting overspending.
What Interest Rate Can I Get With a 780 Credit Score?
You can usually expect to get very low rates with a 780 credit score. Lower rates are generally reserved for borrowers who pose a low credit risk and have a long history of financial stability. A low rate can significantly reduce the amount you pay to borrow funds.
Can I Buy a House With a 780 Credit Score?
Borrowers with very good credit may have no issues qualifying for a conventional mortgage loan. Conventional loans are not backed by the government, which can result in competitive rates, lower fees, and a faster underwriting process. And if you can provide a 20% down payment, you will not have to get private mortgage insurance.
