Credit Mix
The FICO score factor that accounts for 10% of your score. Reflects whether you have experience managing different types of credit — revolving credit (credit cards) and installment credit (loans). Having both types generally helps your score, though it's not necessary to open accounts you don't need.
Related guides
- Full credit & FICO® glossary
Browse all defined terms by category.
- Revolving Credit
A type of credit where you can borrow repeatedly up to a set limit, repay, and borrow again. Credit cards and lines of credit are revolving. Your credit utilization ratio — a major FICO factor — only applies to revolving credit accounts.
- Installment Loan
A loan repaid in fixed monthly payments (installments) over a set period of time. Examples include mortgages, auto loans, student loans, and personal loans. Unlike revolving credit, installment loans have a fixed balance that decreases with each payment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Credit Mix
What does Credit Mix mean?
The FICO score factor that accounts for 10% of your score. Reflects whether you have experience managing different types of credit — revolving credit (credit cards) and installment credit (loans). Having both types generally helps your score, though it's not necessary to open accounts you don't need.
Is Credit Mix important for my FICO® score?
Yes — Credit Mix is one of the five factors that directly determine your FICO® score. Understanding it helps you make better decisions about your credit.