Why is my Experian score so much higher than TransUnion?

Your Experian score is higher than your TransUnion score because they use different data (lenders report differently), different scoring models/versions (FICO vs. VantageScore, or FICO 8 vs. FICO 10), and update at different times, meaning one bureau might have more recent positive info or lack negative items that others show, making your Experian report look better.

Which is more accurate, TransUnion or Experian?

One credit bureau isn't more accurate than another, rather, they may simply have different methods of calculating your credit score. It's important to note that all three bureaus are used widely in the U.S. None of them are more “important” than the others.

Do lenders look at TransUnion or Experian?

Your score can differ depending on which credit reporting company is used, but most mortgage lenders look at scores from all three major credit reporting companies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion – and use the middle score for deciding what rate to offer you.

Why is my TransUnion score so low compared to Experian?

Your TransUnion score is likely lower than Experian because lenders report information at different times and not all to all bureaus, plus they use different scoring models (like VantageScore for TransUnion vs. various FICO/VantageScore versions for Experian), creating varied data snapshots and calculations. Check your reports at AnnualCreditReport.com for discrepancies, as errors or missing data in TransUnion's file (like a new account not updated everywhere) are common causes for lower scores, says Experian and MoneyLion. 

Why is my Experian FICO score higher than TransUnion?

When the scores are significantly different across bureaus, it is likely the underlying data in the credit bureaus is different and thus driving that observed score difference.

5 Credit Hacks to Increase Your Score FAST in 2025

Does Experian show your real FICO score?

A free Experian account allows you to track your FICO® Score 8, and it shows you how you're faring with each of the five scoring categories. You can also see the top five factors that are helping or hurting your FICO® Score.

Do lenders look at Experian or ClearScore?

Lenders can't see your ClearScore account, and your ClearScore report won't directly affect your credit worthiness. However, your ClearScore account shows Experian data, which lenders do look at.

Can I trust TransUnion credit score?

TransUnion credit scores are accurate representations of the data in your TransUnion report, but "accuracy" depends on the scoring model (like FICO or VantageScore) lenders use, as different models weigh factors differently and not all creditors report to all bureaus, meaning scores vary. While TransUnion provides reliable data as a major bureau, your score can differ from other bureaus (Experian, Equifax) or other models, so checking for errors on all your reports is key for a complete financial picture. 

Does Experian have the most accurate credit score?

No single credit bureau, including Experian, provides the single "most accurate" score, as all three major bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) offer equally valid reports, but scores differ because lenders report data at different times, and different scoring models (like FICO and VantageScore) weigh factors differently. The best approach is to monitor all three reports for accuracy and understand that lenders use various scores, so focusing on strong credit habits overall is key. 

Do car dealerships use Equifax or TransUnion?

Auto lenders most frequently use Equifax and Experian, but TransUnion also sells credit report data to auto lenders.

What credit score do you need for a $400,000 house?

Credit Score

When applying for a $400,000 home, lenders evaluate your credit scores to determine eligibility and the rates you'll receive: 740+: Best rates and terms. 700-739: Slightly higher rates. 660-699: Higher rates, may require larger down payment.

Do realtors use TransUnion or Equifax?

When you submit a rental application or prepare to buy a home, realtors typically use one of the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion—to run a credit check. Checking credit reveals crucial information about your financial behavior, such as your score, and history of making on-time payments.

What is the 2 2 2 credit rule?

The 2-2-2 credit rule is a guideline for lenders, especially for mortgages, suggesting borrowers should have at least two active credit accounts, open for at least two years, with at least two years of on-time payments, sometimes also requiring a minimum credit limit (like $2,000) for each. It shows lenders you can consistently manage multiple debts, building confidence in your financial responsibility beyond just a high credit score, and helps you qualify for larger loans. 

Do banks use Experian or Equifax?

In conclusion. Credit card issuers and lenders may use one or more of the three major credit bureaus—Experian, TransUnion and Equifax—to help determine your eligibility for new credit card accounts, loans and more.

What is a good Experian credit score?

A good Experian credit score (using the common 300-850 FICO/VantageScore range) starts at 670, with scores from 670-739 considered "Good," 740-799 "Very Good," and 800+ "Exceptional," giving you access to better rates, though a score in the mid-to-high 700s often secures top offers.
 

Which credit score matters the most?

The FICO Score matters most because roughly 90% of top lenders use it for loan decisions, though there isn't one single "most important" score, as lenders use various FICO versions (like FICO 8, 9, 10) and sometimes industry-specific or VantageScores. Your best bet is to know your general FICO score, especially common versions like FICO 8, and monitor it across the three bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) to understand your creditworthiness for major loans like mortgages and auto loans.
 

What are the disadvantages of Experian?

The main disadvantage of Experian is that, unlike FICO, it is rarely used as a stand-alone tool to make credit decisions. Even lenders that review credit reports in detail rather than go off a borrower's numerical score often look at results from all three bureaus, not just Experian.

How to get 800 credit score in 45 days?

Here are 10 ways to increase your credit score by 100 points - most often this can be done within 45 days.

1. Check your credit report. ...
2. Pay your bills on time. ...
3. Pay off any collections. ...
4. Get caught up on past-due bills. ...
5. Keep balances low on your credit cards. ...
6. Pay off debt rather than continually transferring it.

Why is Experian now 1250?

Why has the top score increased from 999 to 1250? The score has been expanded to give you a clearer picture of the new information that banks and lenders now use to make decisions. Things like rent, overdrafts, and mortgage overpayments.

What credit score is needed for a $250000 house?

The credit score needed to buy a $250,000 house depends on the type of mortgage. The lowest credit score you could have and still secure a mortgage would be 500 (for an FHA loan with a 10% down payment). Expect to need a minimum credit score between 580 and 640 for other loans, depending on which kind you choose.

Should I trust Experian or TransUnion?

Which of the 3 Credit Bureaus Is the Best? Of the three main credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion), no particular bureau is considered better than another. A lender may rely on a report from one bureau or all three bureaus when deciding whether to approve a loan.

Is it true that after 7 years your credit is clear?

It's partially true: most negative items like late payments and collections fall off your credit report after about seven years, but the debt itself might still exist, and bankruptcies last longer (up to 10 years). The 7-year clock starts from the date of the first missed payment, not when it goes to collections, and older negative info must be removed by law, though the debt isn't always forgiven. 

Can I get a $50,000 loan with a 700 credit score?

In general, to qualify for a $50,000 personal loan you will need to show you have sufficient income to make the monthly payments and have a credit score of 580 or higher.

Which banks consider Experian credit score?

Many major US banks use Experian, especially for credit cards, including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Capital One, though they might also use Equifax or TransUnion; specific bureaus used can vary by product, region, and even the applicant's location. UK banks like Barclays, Lloyds, and Nationwide also heavily rely on Experian for lending decisions. 

What cannot be removed from your credit report?

There are other items that cannot be disputed or removed due to their systemic importance. For example, your correct legal name, current and former mailing addresses, and date of birth are usually not up for dispute and won't be removed from your credit reports.