Who Has a 405 Credit Score?

While age isn't a direct factor in calculating your credit score, there is a clear trend of scores improving over time. According to 2023 Experian data, average credit scores tend to rise with each generation.

• Generation Z (ages 18-26): 680
• Millennials (ages 27-42): 690
• Generation X (ages 43-58): 709
• Baby Boomers (ages 59-77): 745
• The Silent Generation (ages 78+): 760

Credit Cards With a 405 Credit Score

A credit score of 405 falls into the "very poor" range, which can severely limit your options when applying for a credit card. Most mainstream lenders view this score as a significant risk, meaning your application for a traditional unsecured card is highly likely to be denied. While you may still qualify for certain secured credit cards, they typically require an upfront security deposit and come with less favorable terms, such as higher interest rates and annual fees.

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The AI-powered Explore Tool from Kudos can help by first asking what you're looking for in a card, such as low interest rates or specific rewards. Based on your answers, it generates tailored recommendations and transparently shows how each option aligns with your stated preferences, making it easier to find a suitable match for your financial situation.

Auto Loans and a 405 Credit Score

A 405 credit score places you in the deep subprime category, which can make securing an auto loan challenging. While approval is still possible, you should expect to face some of the highest interest rates offered by lenders.

• Super-prime (781-850): 5.25% (New) / 7.13% (Used)
• Prime (661-780): 6.87% (New) / 9.36% (Used)
• Non-prime (601-660): 9.83% (New) / 13.92% (Used)
• Subprime (501-600): 13.18% (New) / 18.86% (Used)
• Deep subprime (300-500): 15.77% (New) / 21.55% (Used)
• Rates based on Q2 2025 Experian data.

Mortgages at a 405 Credit Score

With a 405 credit score, qualifying for a traditional mortgage is extremely challenging. Most lenders have minimum score requirements that are significantly higher. For instance, FHA loans—a common option for borrowers with lower credit—typically require a score of at least 500. According to mortgage requirements, a score as low as 405 will likely not meet the criteria for most mainstream home loans, including government-backed options.

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In the rare case you find a specialty lender, a 405 score will severely impact your loan terms. You would face much higher interest rates, larger down payment requirements of at least 10%, and additional fees. Lenders would also conduct a rigorous manual underwriting process, closely examining your income stability, debts, and employment history to offset the risk associated with a very poor credit score.

What's in a Credit Score?

Figuring out what goes into your credit score can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle, but it generally boils down to a handful of key elements. The most common factors include:

• Your payment history, which tracks whether you pay your bills on time, is the most significant factor.
• Credit utilization, or the amount of credit you're using compared to your total available credit, also plays a major role.
• The length of your credit history demonstrates your experience with managing credit over time.
• Having a healthy mix of different types of credit, such as credit cards and installment loans, can positively impact your score.
• Finally, recent credit inquiries, which occur when you apply for new credit, are also taken into account.

How to Improve Your 405 Credit Score

While a 405 credit score is considered very poor, it is entirely possible to improve your financial standing with consistent effort. With the right strategies, you can see meaningful changes in as little as three to six months.

• Set up automatic bill payments. Payment history is the most significant factor in your score, so automating payments ensures you never miss a due date. This is crucial for building a positive track record and preventing your score from dropping further.
• Reduce your credit utilization ratio. Aim to keep your balances below 30% of your credit limit, as this is the second most important factor in your score. Paying down debt is one of the fastest ways to see a significant improvement when you have a low score.
• Become an authorized user. Ask a trusted person with a strong credit history to add you as an authorized user on their credit card. Their responsible credit habits can be added to your credit file, providing a powerful boost to a damaged score.
• Monitor your credit reports. Regularly check your credit reports for errors or signs of fraud and dispute any inaccuracies you find. Removing negative errors can provide an immediate lift to your score and helps you track your improvement over time.

The free Kudos browser extension can help you manage your cards and monitor your score as you put these actions into practice.