Your credit score is no longer a mysterious piece of confidential information.

Accessing your credit score is fast, simple and, in many cases, free.

A credit score is a number that is calculated based on your credit history. The credit score will give lenders a better idea of whether or not to provide a loan or credit to applicants. Your credit score is really a measure of the risk that you may represent to the lending agency or company. A lender can also make this determination by reviewing your credit report but the credit score is faster and more objective.

The system for calculating your credit score awards points based on transactions and activity identified in your credit report. Based on this credit score a lender can assess the likelihood that you will repay a loan or make timely payments on a purchase. When you qualify for instant credit it is because your credit score is satisfactory.

There are several methods for determining a credit score but the most common is the method developed by Fair Isaac and Company and known as FICO. If someone refers to a "FICO score" they are referring to your credit score. The FICO method is used by banks, lenders, insurance companies and other businesses. The FICO credit score methodology was developed in conjunction with the three major credit bureaus, Experian, Equifax and TransUnion in the 1980's.

Only recently have you been able to access your credit score. Until 2001, only lenders and other businesses that required a credit score for evaluation could access it. However, due to pressure from Congress and consumer advocates it is now possible to access your credit score. You can your credit score directly from the credit bureaus or Fair Isaac or you can find hundreds of online sources that will provide your credit score.

You can receive your credit score from our recommended partners. Click here to visit our selected sources.