Subprime
A credit profile with a FICO score below approximately 620. Loans to subprime borrowers carry higher APRs to reflect higher default risk.
Full definition
Subprime is the credit-industry label for borrowers with a FICO score below approximately 620. Loans to subprime borrowers carry higher APRs and stricter terms to reflect higher default risk. The subprime personal-loan market in the U.S. is served by online installment lenders, credit unions, and specialty banks.
- 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.
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