What is so important about an 800 credit score? A credit score in this range is a significant accomplishment, as it’s a reflection of responsible financial habits. By achieving a credit score of 800, you’ll have far more financial opportunities accessible to you and can take advantage of lower interest rates and favourable loan terms.
With hard work and careful attention to debt, income, and payments, an excellent credit score of 800 is possible.
Key Points
- A credit score of 800 is considered ‘excellent’.
- Having an 800 credit score can make it easier for you to access a variety of financial products at lower rates and better terms.
- Achieving an 800 credit score takes time and responsible financial habits, including making timely bill payments and keeping your credit utilization low.
Is An 800 Credit Score In Canada Considered ‘Excellent’?
Yes, a credit score of 800 is classified as ‘excellent’. To reach a credit score this high, you’ll need to practice good spending and borrowing habits. That includes paying your bills on time, keeping your credit card expenditures low, and avoiding too many loan applications.
Please note that attaining an 800 credit score in Canada takes time, so you’ll need to exercise patience while taking steps to build a healthy credit profile.
Do You Know What Your Credit Score Is?
Your credit score is a number between 300 and 900. The higher your credit score, the more creditworthy you are. It’s best to apply for a credit product when you have good credit, and an 800 score would certainly put you in a great position, but you don’t necessarily need a score that high to be approved.
Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to check your credit score. You can do so for free with the credit bureaus, some banks and third-party providers such as Loans Canada CompareHub.
What Your Credit Score Means?
- Excellent Credit Score Range: 760 – 900
- Very Good Credit Score Range: 725 – 759
- Good Credit Score Range: 660 – 724
- Fair Credit Score Range: 560 – 659
- Poor Credit Score Range: 300 – 559
Learn more: Credit Score Range In Canada: What It Really Means
What Are The Benefits Of A Credit Score Over 800 In Canada?
Being in the top tier of credit scores definitely has its perks. Let’s take a look at the benefits of being in the 800 Credit Score Club.
Easier Loan Approval
You’ll have an easier time getting approved for loans and credit products, like personal loans, mortgages, car loans, and credit cards.
Lower Interest Rates
Lenders offer the lowest interest rates to borrowers with higher credit scores. A score of at least 800 can help you secure lower rates on loans and credit products, which can help you save a lot of money.
Better Loan Terms
With excellent credit, you may qualify for longer loan terms and more flexible repayment schedules.
Higher Credit Limits
Credit card providers may be more willing to offer higher credit limits if you have excellent credit, which can give you more financial flexibility and even help you keep your credit utilization ratio low.
Premium Credit Cards
Many premium credit cards that offer higher rewards, cash back, or travel perks are typically only available to those with excellent credit.
Better Chances Of Getting A Job
Some employers check credit scores of job applicants as part of the interview process. This is more likely with jobs that deal with money or sensitive data.
Improves Odds Of Getting An Apartment
Landlords may also ask to review your credit report and check your credit score as part of the tenant screening process. The higher your credit score, the better the odds that you’ll make your rent payments on time in the eyes of the landlord.
Note: It’s important to understand that credit scores in the 800s will likely benefit you when applying for new credit, a loan, or even an apartment. But, remember that your credit is not the only factor used during the approval process for these products and services.
800 Vs. 850: Is There A Big Difference?
A credit score of 800 versus 850 isn’t significant, as they’re both considered in the excellent range. That means lenders will see you as a very low-risk borrower, whether your score is 800 or 850.
Once you reach over the 800 mark, you can access most financial products, including prestigious credit cards and low-interest rate loans. An extra 50 points may not necessarily make much of a difference at that point, though it’s never a bad idea to reach for the highest score.
What If I Have A 700 Credit Score?
A credit score of 700 or more is generally considered ‘good credit’ and makes it easier to qualify for credit products with lower interest rates.
That said, approval still depends on your overall financial profile and the lender. So, you’ll still need to show sufficient income, stable employment, and manageable debt levels.
Learn more: Your 700 Credit Score
What If I Have A 600 Credit Score?
A credit score of 600 would be considered ‘fair’, which could mean that lenders may see you as a higher-risk borrower. As such, your financing choices may be more limited, but not necessarily out of reach. That said, while you can still get approved, expect higher interest rates and lower credit limits.
You may also need to demonstrate a strong income and lower debt levels to unlock credit products when your credit score is at 600. You might also have to work with an alternative lender, as banks may hesitate to loan to borrowers with this credit level.
Learn more: 600 Credit Score: What It Means For You
What If I Have A 450 Credit Score?
A 450 credit score is considered ‘poor’, making it difficult to qualify for loans through traditional lenders. With a score this low, you’d be considered a high-risk borrower.
In this case, you’d need to work with alternative lenders that offer bad credit loans. Keep in mind that while you may get approved with these lenders, you’ll be charged a higher interest rate and will likely be offered smaller loan amounts to offset the lender’s risk.
Learn more: Can You Get a Loan With a Credit Score of 450?
How To Get An 800 Credit Score In Canada
When it comes to being a part of the 800 Credit Score Club, there are a few credit habits that most members have, including the following:
Pay On Time, All The Time
Your payment history is the most important factor used during the calculation of your credit scores. It counts for roughly 35%. This means you must always pay on time, with no exceptions.
Be Mindful Of Credit Card Balances
The relationship between your credit card limit and balance is factored into your credit score. Maxing out your credit limit may impact your credit scores, this is why it’s a good habit to keep your credit utilization ratio below 30%.
Don’t Close Old Credit Card Accounts
The total age of your credit accounts, as well as the age of your oldest and youngest accounts, are taken into consideration when your credit scores are calculated. This is why it’s good practice to keep your older credit cards open and active.
Only Apply For Credit When Absolutely Necessary
When you apply for new credit and the lender or creditor performs a credit check, a hard inquiry is listed on your credit report. A hard inquiry can affect your credit scores, so applying for new credit only when needed is a good habit to establish.
Make Use Of Various Account Types
Certain credit scoring models favour individuals who have a variety of account types. Over time, gradually adding different accounts, such as credit cards, auto loans, student loans, and mortgages, may boost your credit score.
Repeat Your Habits And Track Your Progress
Consistency is crucial when it comes to credit scores, this means that you need to develop good habits, repeat them and track your progress.
Start As Soon As Possible
Credit scores build over time. The longer you consistently and responsibly use credit, the more likely it’ll help build your credit scores. As such, the earlier you start working on your credit, the longer you’ll have to build your payment history and credit history, which are common factors used to calculate your credit scores.
Monitor Your Credit Score
Be sure to check your credit regularly. Not only will it allow you to better understand your credit position, but it will also help you keep track of your credit progress. Checking your credit score does not lower it.
Learn more: How To Improve Your Credit Scores
| Pro Tip: Watch Out For What Can Hurt Your Credit Just as you can work on improving your credit, there are certain things you can watch out for that can cause your score to dip, such as the following: -Missed or late bill payments -High credit utilization ratio -Closing old credit accounts -Too many hard inquiries -Mistakes on your credit report |
How Long Does It Take To Reach An 800 Credit Score?
The amount of time it takes to reach a credit score of 800 depends on your starting point and financial habits. For instance, if your score is already high — at say 750 or higher — it may take you as little as a few months to get to 800, as long as you make sound financial decisions.
However, if your starting point is 500, it could take several months to a few years to hit a credit score of 800. The amount of time depends greatly on your credit score, what’s pulling down your credit, and what actions you’re taking to improve it.
Can You Get A Personal Loan With An 800 Credit Score In Canada?
Regardless of what type of loan you’re applying for, it’s essential to note that your credit score alone won’t get you approved. Lenders also look at your debt levels, income, and more.
That said, with a credit score of 800, getting approved for a personal loan should be easy. Borrowers with this score are considered very low-risk, which makes it easier to access personal loans with low interest rates and flexible terms.
Learn more: What Credit Score Is Needed For A Personal Loan?
Can You Get A Car Loan With An 800 Credit Score In Canada?
Like personal loans, car loans should be easy for borrowers with 800 credit scores to secure. Further, they should also be able to get the lowest rates and most favourable loan terms.
For example, with an 800 credit score, you may qualify for special offers such as 0% financing or zero down payment car loans.
Can You Get A Mortgage With An 800 Credit Score In Canada?
Considering the very high loan amounts required to buy a home, mortgages can be more difficult to qualify for. That’s why it’s best to apply with a very high credit score to ensure you can get the highest loan amount possible with the lowest rates. And with a credit score of 800, your chances improve.
That said, there are other factors involved in getting a mortgage in Canada, including passing the mortgage stress test, making a minimum down payment of at least 5% (on home prices up to $500,000), and having a low debt-to-income (DTI) ratio.
Can You Get A Credit Card With An 800 Credit Score?
With an 800 credit score, you should be able to qualify for most credit cards in Canada, including premium cards. Keep in mind, however, that credit card issuers will also look at other factors, including income levels and debt loads. Premium cards in particular typically have minimum income requirements in addition to credit score requirements, so you’ll also have to meet those criteria to get approved.
Does An 800 Credit Score Guarantee Loan Approval?
Not necessarily, just because you have excellent credit doesn’t guarantee approval on its own. Lenders also take other factors into consideration when assessing a loan application, such as your income, employment history, debt-to-income ratio, and recent credit activity.
So, even with excellent credit, it’s still possible for you to be denied a loan if you have inconsistent income, unstable employment or excessively high debt.
Taking On Debt To Build A High Credit Score
Building credit in Canada may require taking on debt, though there are some other ways to build a positive credit history. While taking on debt to build good credit can be a strategic approach, it requires responsible spending habits and careful planning. If you add too much debt to the books and have trouble repaying it, you could be negatively affecting your credit.
Here are some pros and cons of taking on lots of debt to build or improve your credit score:
Pros
The following are some advantages of taking on more debt to build good credit:
- Build Payment History: Regular, timely bill payments play a key role in improving your credit score. If you’re able to make your payments by the due date every billing cycle, your credit score can improve.
- Prove Your Creditworthiness: Taking on debt and managing it responsibly proves to lenders and creditors that you can handle debt appropriately. This can increase your chances of loan approval at lower rates and better terms.
- Increase Credit Limits: If you’re able to manage your credit accounts successfully, you may be offered higher credit limits, which can help keep your credit utilization low if you keep your spending in check.
Cons
There are important risks to consider before adding more debt as a means of building a positive credit profile:
- Risk Of Borrowing Too Much: Taking on too much debt can potentially make it more difficult for you to cover your payments if your finances are not strong enough.
- Potential To Miss Payments: If you struggle to make your bill payments because of your excessive debt load, your credit score may suffer.
Myths People Believe About Having An 800 Credit Score
Credit scores are not always a fully understood concept among many consumers. Here are a few myths about 800 credit scores in particular, and the truths behind them:
Myth #1: You Need An 800 Score To Get Approved For A Loan
While a credit score of 800 is excellent and can help you access various credit products with the most competitive rates, many borrowers can still get approved with good scores in the 660–760 range, depending on income and debt levels.
Similarly, individuals with bad credit scores can also get a loan. However, they’ll usually need to work with a private lender, who may charge higher interest rates.
Myth #2: Once You Reach 800, You Can Ease Up On Good Financial Habits
If you’re not careful, your 800 credit score can take a tumble. Even after you hit an 800 score, you still need to maintain good financial habits, like making on-time payments and keeping your credit utilization low.
Myth #3: You Need Several Credit Cards To Reach 800
You can reach an 800 credit score even with one credit card, as long as you consistently pay on time and keep your utilization low.
Myth #4: Only High-Income Earners Can Hit 800
You don’t need to earn a high income to reach an 800 credit score, as long as you make on-time bill payments, keep your credit utilization low, and maintain responsible account management habits.
Final Thoughts
Being part of the 800 Credit Score Club has its perks, as it helps you access more financial products at better rates and terms. That said, an 800 credit score is not necessary to be financially successful in any way, as many individuals manage to get by with scores under this threshold. Regardless, it’s best to strive towards better credit that’s realistic for you.
