How to Get an 850 Credit Score

In the U.S. credit system, 850 is the highest possible score. However, it’s rare for even the most credit-savvy consumers to reach this pinnacle. 

No matter what your score is right now, it’s better to focus on improving it instead of shooting for 850 specifically. But if you’re wondering how to get an 850 credit score, you’re in the right place. 

How to reach a credit score of 850

The best way to improve your score is to maintain a good payment history. This is the biggest factor in most credit models, which means that missed payments have a major impact. 

To avoid missing payments, set up autopay when possible. Ideally, you should keep a cash buffer so that payments never bounce. If that’s not feasible, set up a reminder a few days before each bill is due.

When you have a handle on payments, look at your revolving utilization. High reported balances on revolving credit will bring down your score. Paying your balance down before the statement date will keep reported values low. This is a great tip to follow if you’re wondering how to get an 850 credit score.

Age of credit also matters. Keeping an old account is better than taking on a new one. If you have a credit card that doesn’t charge a yearly fee, consider keeping it open even if you don’t need it. Additionally, think carefully about any credit product before applying. 

Is it possible to get to an 850 credit score?

While it may be a long and challenging process, getting a credit score of 850 is possible. Still, your score can vary depending on the model that a lender pulls.

A perfect score isn’t just about keeping your record clear of missed payments. It requires a long-standing credit history. You’ll need well-established accounts paid consistently over the course of years. Having different types of credit also helps.

Once your credit score is over 800, it can be more difficult to get those last few points. They may hinge on minor details that are not in your control. For example, your history of opening and closing accounts and the mix of account types on file can hold your credit score back.

Do you need an 850 credit score?

When it comes to practical benefits, moving from an excellent score to a perfect one doesn’t matter all that much. Even high-level rate tiers and card offers rarely require a perfect score; they just have a high threshold.

It’s also important to remember that your credit score is just one factor that lenders take into account. They look at affordability and risk based on your income, employment history, and debt-to-income ratio.

Instead of aiming to reach 850, it’s best to maintain consistency, which will help you weather any unexpected circumstances that could impact your finances. It’s worse to see your credit drop below excellent than to never end up reaching perfect.

How long does it take to reach a credit score of 850?

The timeline to reach a credit score of 850 can be over a decade. Credit scores form over the course of years, and that’s even more true if you’re aiming for perfection. A mature file is needed, and recent negative events or frequent account changes can really stall your progress.

Any improvements or negative impacts can also take some time to actually affect your score. Lenders submit information to credit bureaus at irregular intervals, and the bureaus themselves typically work on monthly cycles. Instead of trying to make sudden changes, it’s better to maintain long-term consistency.

How to get an 850 credit score really comes down to letting your file mature without major disruptions. Be smart and cautious with your credit, and track your credit reports to flag any inaccurate information.

Taking steps to get closer to a credit score of 850

While it’s possible to reach a credit score of 850, you should know that it’s not required for better financing. Maintaining on-time payments, lowering utilization, and preserving account age can all boost your score. You can also take a step toward stronger credit habits with Kikoff.