Credit utilisation
The share of your available revolving credit you're currently using. Below 30% is generally healthy; below 10% is ideal for credit scores.
Full definition
Credit utilisation is the percentage of your total available revolving credit (mostly credit cards) currently in use. It is the second-largest factor in FICO scoring after payment history. Most credit experts recommend keeping utilisation below 30%, and ideally below 10%, to maximise your score. Consolidating credit-card debt into a personal loan can quickly drop reported utilisation.
- Written by
- Get Advance Loan Editorial Team
- Reviewed by
- Compliance Review
- Published
- January 15, 2026
- Last reviewed
- May 22, 2026
- Credit scoreA three-digit number (typically 300 to 850) summarising your credit history. Lenders use it to predict the likelihood you'll repay.
- FICO scoreFICO is the credit-scoring model used in roughly 90% of U.S. lending decisions. Scores range from 300 to 850.
- VantageScoreVantageScore is a competing credit-scoring model jointly developed by the three major credit bureaus. Also runs 300 to 850.
- Credit reportA record of your credit history maintained by the three U.S. credit bureaus. You're entitled to one free copy per year from each bureau.
- Soft credit inquiryA credit check that does not affect your credit score. Used for pre-qualification and rate-shopping.
- Hard credit inquiryA credit check that may lower your credit score a few points and remains on your credit report for up to 24 months.
Ready to apply this knowledge?
Compare personal loan offers in two minutes. Soft credit check only, no impact to your score.
Begin your request