What is a Tier 1 Credit Score? - Cushion (2024)

We’ve all experienced the anxiety of applying for a loan or mortgage only to be told that our approval hinges on a three-digit number: our credit score. This number can either open doors or shut them tight. One of the key ways to access the best loan terms and make your financial dreams a reality is to achieve a Tier 1 credit score. In this article, we’ll break down what a Tier 1 credit is, why it’s beneficial, and how you can achieve it.

What is the Tier 1 Credit Score Range?

A Tier 1 credit score represents the highest level of creditworthiness. While different lenders might have slight variations in their criteria, a Tier 1 credit score generally falls within the range of 800 to 850 on the FICO scale. This score range signifies excellent credit and reflects a history of responsible borrowing and timely repayments​​​​. According to Experian, almost 22% of consumers fall under this credit tier.

In comparison, other credit tiers are as follows:

Note: While these ranges provide a general guideline, the exact cutoff for each tier can vary between lenders. Some might consider a 750 credit score sufficient for Tier 1 financing, while others might require an 800​​​​.

Benefits of a Tier 1 Credit Score Range

Having a Tier 1 credit score opens up a plethora of financial benefits. Here are some of the most significant advantages:

• Lower interest rates: The most apparent advantage of a Tier 1 credit score is access to the lowest interest rates on credit cards and loans. Lower interest rates can save you thousands of dollars over the life of a loan.
• More financing options: A Tier 1 credit score means more choices. Whether you’re applying for a mortgage, an auto loan, or a credit card, lenders are more willing to work with you and offer the best terms available​​​​. This means you can shop around for the best deals and terms that suit your needs​​​​.
• Higher loan approval rates: Lenders view Tier 1 borrowers as low-risk, making it easier to get approved for various types of credit, including mortgages, auto loans, and personal loans​​​​. They may also be more willing to offer you a larger loan amount compared to those under lower credit tiers.
• Better negotiation power: When you have excellent credit, you are in a stronger position to negotiate better terms on loans and other financial products. Lenders are more likely to accommodate favorable conditions to secure your business​​.

Looking to boost your credit score and reach that coveted Tier 1 status? Cushion can help you get there. With this app, your bills, subscriptions, and Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) payments are reported to credit bureaus. It helps you build a solid credit history, making it easier than ever to improve your credit score.

What a Tier 1 Credit Score Means for Auto Loans

A Tier 1 credit score lets you buy a car with the best terms available, including a larger loan amount, lower interest rate, and more manageable monthly payments. With a Tier 1 credit score, you also gain access to extended repayment periods, which can further reduce your monthly payment burden. To understand better what Tier 1 credit means in auto financing and how it may impact you, take a look at this example:

Two individuals under different credit tiers are applying for a $40,000 five-year car loan from a bank in California.

With an 820 credit score, Person B qualifies as Tier 1 for auto finance and enjoys a lower interest rate and monthly payment. They also save about $4,560.

What a Tier 1 Credit Score Means for Mortgage Loans

A Tier 1 credit score can be very advantageous when it comes to getting a mortgage. With excellent credit, you can negotiate better terms, such as lower down payments and fewer fees. This makes buying a home more affordable and accessible. Moreover, you also have a better chance of being approved for larger loan amounts. This is especially important in competitive housing markets, where being pre-approved quickly is a significant advantage.

To help you understand the potential benefits of having a Tier 1 credit score when applying for a mortgage, consider this illustration:

Two individuals under different credit tiers are applying for a $400,000 30-year mortgage.

Person B, with a Tier 1 credit score, acquires lower interest rates and monthly payments. Thanks to their credit score, they are also able to save around $59,472.

How to Get a Tier 1 Credit Score

As you can see, a Tier 1 credit score can significantly impact your financial health and provide you with greater flexibility and savings. It’s a goal worth striving for to ensure you get the most out of your financial transactions. Achieving this credit tier requires consistent effort and smart financial practices. Here are some tips to help you get there:

1. Pay your bills on time: Payment history is the most significant factor in your credit score. Make it a priority to pay all your bills on time. Even one late payment can decrease your credit score​​​​.
2. Keep your credit utilization low: Your credit utilization ratio, which is the amount of credit you’re using compared to your credit limit, should be kept below 30%. Lower utilization rates are even better​​​​.
3. Avoid new debt: Be cautious about taking on new debt. Each new credit application results in a hard inquiry, which can slightly lower your credit score. Too many inquiries in a short period can be detrimental​​.
4. Maintain a mix of credit types: Having a diverse credit portfolio, including credit cards, installment loans, and mortgages, can positively impact your credit score. This shows lenders that you can handle different types of credit responsibly​​.
5. Regularly check your credit report: Monitoring your credit report for errors and disputing any inaccuracies can help maintain or improve your credit score. Regular checks can also alert you to potential fraud​​.
6. Keep old accounts open: Your credit score is influenced by the age of your credit accounts. Keeping older accounts open, even if you don’t use them frequently, can contribute positively to your credit history​​.

If you’re striving to reach a Tier 1 credit score, Cushion can be an invaluable tool. With this app, your everyday spending for subscriptions, utility bills, and BNPL payments are reported to credit bureaus. This helps you build credit history effortlessly with the payments you’re already making. Cushion transforms routine expenses into opportunities to enhance your credit standing, ensuring every payment counts towards your financial goals.

Summary

Achieving and maintaining a Tier 1 credit score can unlock numerous financial benefits, from lower interest rates to more favorable loan terms. It takes consistent effort, including timely payments, low credit utilization, and careful management of new debt. By understanding what it takes to reach this status, you can set yourself on a path to financial stability and large savings.