A credit score is a system created out of a mathematical statistical number by both creditors and credit agencies. It is used to determine your ability to repay a loan. In other words, it is an assessed risk factor. Using such things as your payment history, the total amount you owe in debts, your past credit record, the type of credit you currently possess and the number of inquires you have made for credit, the agencies and creditors derive a figure. This is usually between 300 and 850. A low number indicates you are a high risk. To increase it, requires adjusting your financial practices. You will need to pay all your bills on time. You will also have to keep any and all outstanding debts you carry low. In addition, you need to watch your available credit levels, keeping them low. While you can ask for help from a credit repair business, you can overhaul your personal and family economic system on your own.