Credit Score
A number (0-1000 in NZ) that represents your creditworthiness. Based on your borrowing history, repayment patterns, and credit applications. Check yours free at Centrix or Equifax NZ.
Your credit score is a number that represents how creditworthy you are to lenders. In New Zealand, both Centrix and Equifax score from 0 to 1000, with higher being better.
Your score is based on factors including: payment history (do you pay bills on time?), credit utilisation (how much of your available credit are you using?), credit history length, types of credit, and recent credit applications.
You can check your credit score for free at Centrix (centrix.co.nz) or Equifax (equifax.co.nz). Checking your own score doesn't affect it.
Why this matters
Your credit score affects your ability to get a mortgage, personal loan, car finance, or even a phone contract. A higher score means better interest rates and more options. Before applying for any significant credit, check your score and address any issues. Common score killers in NZ include late bill payments, too many credit applications in a short period, and high credit card balances relative to your limit.
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