What does a good credit score typically indicate?

A good credit score typically indicates a strong history of managing debt. This strong history reflects an individual's ability to make payments on time, maintain low credit card balances relative to their limits, and effectively utilize a mix of credit types. Lenders use credit scores to assess risk; a high score suggests that a borrower is likely to repay loans, thereby making them more attractive to lenders when applying for mortgages, car loans, or credit cards.

While having a lack of existing debt may contribute to a good credit score, it is not a definitive indicator on its own. Similarly, a recent application for a credit card could temporarily lower a score due to a hard inquiry, which does not reflect overall credit management. Lastly, a history of high credit utilization is typically detrimental to a credit score, as it suggests reliance on credit and potential financial trouble. Therefore, focusing on a strong history of debt management provides a more accurate representation of what leads to a good credit score.