FICO vs. PLUS Score: What’s the Real Difference and Why It Matters

If you’ve applied for a loan, a credit card, or a mortgage recently, your credit score likely played a pivotal role in the lender’s decision. But did you know there’s more than one type of credit score? Two commonly referenced models—FICO and PLUS Score—serve very different purposes.

Understanding the difference between the FICO vs. PLUS score models is essential if you want to monitor your credit accurately and prepare effectively for any lending decision.

Let’s break down how they differ, why it matters, and which one you should actually be watching.

What Is a FICO Score?

The FICO Score, created by Fair Isaac Corporation, is the most widely used credit scoring model in lending decisions. Whether you’re applying for a mortgage, auto loan, or new credit card, lenders typically evaluate your creditworthiness using one of several versions of the FICO model.

FICO Score Range: 300 to 850

Here’s how your FICO Score is calculated:

• Payment History – 35%

• Amounts Owed – 30%

• Length of Credit History – 15%

• New Credit Inquiries – 10%

• Credit Mix (Types of Credit Used) – 10%

Each of the three major credit bureaus uses a slightly different version of the FICO Score:

• Equifax: BEACON® Score

• TransUnion: EMPIRICA®

• Experian: Experian/Fair Isaac Risk Model

Where to Get Your FICO Score

You can purchase your FICO Score directly from MyFICO.com. Each score costs around $19.95 and includes a credit report from either Equifax or TransUnion. Some credit card companies and banks also offer free FICO Scores as a customer perk.

What Is a PLUS Score?

The PLUS Score, developed by Experian, is designed strictly for educational use. It’s a consumer-only score that lenders do not use when evaluating credit applications.

PLUS Score Range: 330 to 830

While the PLUS Score uses similar data points as FICO—like payment history, balances, and credit inquiries—it exists to help consumers understand their credit standing, not to influence lending decisions.

You’ll find your PLUS Score offered through Experian’s platforms like CreditExpert.com, typically bundled with your credit report for $14.50.

Key Differences Between FICO and PLUS Scores

Which Credit Score Should You Monitor?

If your goal is to apply for credit and secure favorable loan terms, the FICO Score is what matters. It’s the gold standard used by more than 90% of top lenders.

That said, the PLUS Score can still serve a purpose. It helps you:

• Understand your credit behavior

• Track progress over time

• Compare your credit standing with national averages

Just keep in mind that your PLUS Score may look different from your FICO Score—often slightly higher—and is not predictive of how lenders will evaluate you.

What Else Do Lenders Consider Beyond Your Credit Score?

Although your FICO Score is a crucial factor, lenders look at additional criteria when making approval decisions:

• Employment history

• Current income

• Debt-to-income ratio

• Type of credit or loan requested

• Purpose of the loan

This is why having a great credit score doesn’t guarantee loan approval—it’s just one piece of the financial puzzle.

Final Thoughts: Know the Difference, Monitor What Matters

When comparing FICO vs. PLUS Score, the key takeaway is this:

• FICO = Used by Lenders

• PLUS = For Personal Insight

Monitoring both scores can give you a more complete view of your credit profile, but only the FICO Score will affect your borrowing power.

If you’re actively working to build or maintain good credit, focus your efforts on improving the factors that drive your FICO Score—and use the PLUS Score as an educational tool to stay motivated and track progress.

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Side-by-side comparison chart of FICO vs. PLUS credit scores

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FAQs:

Which score do lenders actually use—FICO or PLUS?

Lenders primarily use the FICO Score for credit decisions. The PLUS Score is only for consumer education and not used in lending.

Why is my PLUS Score higher than my FICO Score?

The scoring models differ in both range and calculation. It’s common for your PLUS Score to appear higher than your FICO Score, but it’s not a better indicator of creditworthiness.

How can I check my FICO Score?

You can purchase it on MyFICO.com, or check with your bank or credit card issuer—many offer it as a free benefit.

Is the PLUS Score accurate?

It’s accurate in showing your general credit health, but it doesn’t reflect what lenders will actually see or use in real-world decisions.

Should I monitor both scores?

Yes—monitoring both helps you understand how different models evaluate your credit. But if you’re applying for loans, your FICO Score should be your top priority.