It is important to know what is not a factor in a credit score as well as what is included!

We get asked this all the time and it is important that you understand not only what is in your credit score, but also what is not.

According to FICO, they consider several different factors when to determine your credit score.  But, they do not consider:

Race, color, religion, national origin, sex or marital status.

This would also not include whether or not you receive public assistance or if you exercise your rights under the Consumer Credit Privacy Act.

Your occupation, title, employer or salary as well as the date you were employed or employment history.

But, although this may not be a factor in determining your credit score, lenders may consider this information.

Your age.

Even though some types of scores may consider your age, FICO scores do not.

Where you live.

Any items reported as child/family support obligations or rental agreements.

Certain types of inquiries or requests for your credit report.

There is a misunderstanding that if you make a personal request for your credit report that it will have a negative impact on your score.  NOT TRUE!

Your score does not count "promotional inquiries"or requests made by lenders in order to make you a "pre-approved" credit offer.

If a current lender makes an "administrative inquiry" - requests made by lenders to review your account with them, this is not a factor of your credit score.

Nor are inquiries from your employer.

For a more complete explanation about the effects of inquiries about your credit report, click here.

If you have enrolled in a credit counseling or debt management program of any kind. 

That's good news if you are enrolled in a DEBT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OR If you are considering a DEBT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM.