What is typically the minimum acceptable credit score for most lenders?

The minimum acceptable credit score for most lenders generally falls around 600. This score is often seen as the lower threshold for qualifying for various types of loans, including mortgages, car loans, and personal loans. A score of 600 indicates that the borrower has some credit history, though it may also reflect potential risks for lenders due to past financial behavior.

Scores below this range could make it difficult to secure loans without higher interest rates or might even result in outright denial of financing. Lenders use credit scores as a primary tool to assess the likelihood that a borrower will repay their debts reliably. Therefore, while higher scores (like 700 or 800) suggest a strong credit history and greater reliability to lenders, a score of around 600 is often the minimum that still allows for reasonable access to credit.