Who Has a 474 Credit Score?

While age isn't a direct factor in credit score calculations, there is a clear trend of scores improving over time. According to 2023 Experian data, the average credit scores by generation break down as follows:

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

Credit Cards With a 474 Credit Score

A 474 credit score falls into the “very poor” range, which can make qualifying for a traditional credit card a significant challenge. Most lenders view this score as a high-risk indicator, meaning applications for standard unsecured cards are often denied. Consequently, your options will likely be restricted to secured credit cards or other subprime products that come with higher fees and interest rates.

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Kudos can help you find the right card by analyzing your spending habits and financial situation through its Dream Wallet feature. The platform provides personalized recommendations and insights into how different cards may impact your credit score, helping you make a choice that aligns with your financial goals.

Auto Loans and a 474 Credit Score

A 474 credit score places you in the deep subprime category, which can make securing an auto loan challenging as lenders view you as a high-risk borrower. If approved, you will face some of the highest interest rates available, leading to significantly more expensive monthly payments and overall loan costs.

• Super-prime (781-850): 5.25% for new cars and 7.13% for used cars
• Prime (661-780): 6.87% for new cars and 9.36% for used cars
• Non-prime (601-660): 9.83% for new cars and 13.92% for used cars
• Subprime (501-600): 13.18% for new cars and 18.86% for used cars
• Deep subprime (300-500): 15.77% for new cars and 21.55% for used cars, according to a 2025 complete guide.

Mortgages at a 474 Credit Score

With a 474 credit score, your mortgage options are extremely limited. Your most viable path is likely an FHA-insured loan, which accepts scores down to 500, though securing approval remains challenging. Most conventional lenders require a score of at least 620, placing other loan types out of reach. While some specialty non-prime lenders may consider sub-580 borrowers, these are rare and have strict requirements.

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If you do qualify for an FHA loan, your credit score will lead to less favorable terms. You must provide a down payment of at least 10% rather than the standard 3.5%. You will also face significantly higher interest rates, larger mortgage insurance premiums, and a lower cap on your total loan amount. Lenders will also subject your entire financial profile to intense scrutiny through manual underwriting.

What's in a Credit Score?

Understanding your credit score can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle, as it's a blend of several key financial habits. The most common factors that determine your score include:

• Your payment history tracks whether you have paid past credit accounts on time.
• Credit utilization is the percentage of your available credit that you are currently using.
• The length of your credit history considers the age of your oldest account and the average age of all your accounts.
• Credit mix refers to the variety of credit products you have, such as credit cards, retail accounts, and loans.
• New credit inquiries and recently opened accounts can also temporarily impact your score.

How to Improve Your 474 Credit Score

Improving a 474 credit score is achievable, and with consistent positive behavior, you can see meaningful changes within a few months. Tackling the core factors that influence your score is the most effective strategy for rebuilding your credit.

• Establish automatic bill payments. Payment history is the most significant factor in your credit score, so paying every bill on time is the most critical step. Setting up automatic payments ensures you never miss a due date, which demonstrates reliability and begins to build a positive track record.
• Reduce your credit utilization ratio. This ratio of your debt to your available credit is the second most important scoring factor. For a low score, high balances can be a major drag, so paying them down to below 30% shows you can manage credit responsibly.
• Become an authorized user. Being added to the credit card of someone with a strong payment history and low credit utilization can add their positive data to your credit file. This can provide a significant boost by piggybacking on their good habits.
• Apply for a secured credit card. Designed for those rebuilding credit, these cards require a cash deposit as collateral, making them easier to get with a low score. Responsible use and on-time payments are reported to the credit bureaus, helping you establish a fresh, positive payment history.

For help managing your cards and monitoring your progress, consider using a tool like Kudos to stay on track.