How FinTechs Assess Creditworthiness
FinTech companies use advanced algorithms and machine learning to analyze alternative data—information not typically found in a traditional credit report—to assess creditworthiness without relying solely on FICO® scores. This approach helps to expand access to credit for the "credit invisible" population who may have thin or no credit files.
Instead of just looking at credit history and existing debt, FinTechs use a more holistic view of an applicant's financial behavior and stability.
Key data sources include:
Arro Card: A Real-World FinTech Example
The Arro Card is a prime example of a FinTech company applying these principles in the real world. Arro's model relies on an applicant's income and bank account history to determine creditworthiness.Advantages of the FinTech Approach
In summary, FinTech companies are fundamentally changing how creditworthiness is assessed by looking beyond the traditional FICO® score. By leveraging alternative data like banking history and income, they are creating opportunities for millions of people previously overlooked by the credit system. The Arro Card serves as a prime example of this innovative approach, demonstrating that responsible financial behavior can be recognized and rewarded, even without a lengthy credit history. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, understanding these new assessment methods empowers you to find a credit solution that is more transparent and better suited to your unique financial profile.
Arro Card
- No hard inquiry to apply.
- Apply in 5 minutes or less.
- Get up to $300 with the unsecured Arro Card. Grow your credit line up to $2,500.
- Earn 1% cash back on gas & groceries, including Walmart and Target
- Instantly increase your credit limit as you master your personal finances in the Arro app.
- Reports to all 3 credit bureaus.
- The Arro Card is issued by Community Federal Savings Bank, member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International.
- CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE
*Subject to terms and conditions
Found this guide helpful? Bookmark it for future reference as you continue your financial journey!
Experian Boost: A Comprehensive Guide to Boosting Your Free Credit Score
FICO® Credit Scores
FICO® Score Ranges:
- Exceptional: 800–850
- Very Good: 740–799
- Good: 670–739
- Fair: 580–669
- Poor: 300–579
What is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a three-digit number, typically ranging from 300 to 850, that predicts your creditworthiness—how likely you are to repay borrowed money on time. Lenders use this score to assess the risk of lending to you and to determine the interest rates and terms of any credit you might receive.
Why is a Credit Score Important?
A credit score is important because it acts as your financial reputation. Lenders, landlords, insurers, and employers use this single number to quickly judge how reliable you are with money. A higher score helps you qualify for loans and credit cards, often securing lower interest rates that can save you significant money. Conversely, a poor credit score can lead to application denials or much higher costs for borrowing, making it a key factor in your overall financial opportunities.
FICO® Credit Score Facts
- Three-Digit Number: Like other credit scores, FICO® Scores are a three-digit number that summarizes a consumer's credit risk.
- Range: Most standard FICO® Scores range from 300 to 850. Higher scores indicate lower credit risk.
- Data Source: FICO® Scores are calculated using data from your credit reports maintained by the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Your score may vary slightly depending on which bureau's data is used.
- Industry Standard: Lenders rely on FICO® Scores for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards because they provide a consistent, statistically sound assessment of the likelihood that a borrower will repay their debt.
Note: Credit scores are used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any credit card product.
Security Notice: All Applications utilize Secure SSL Technology for secure transmissions.
*See the online credit card applications for details about terms and conditions of credit card offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. When you click on the " Apply Now " button you can review the credit card terms and conditions on the credit card issuer's web site.
Advertiser Disclosure: The card offers that appear on this site are from companies from which Gettingacreditcard.com receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). Gettingacreditcard.com does not include all card companies or all card offers available in the marketplace.
© 2006-2025 GettingACreditCard.com, All Rights Reserved.