Know your FICO® scores, improve your FICO scores, save money Whether you’re buying a home, a car or applying for a credit card – lenders want to know the risk they’re taking by lending your money. FICO scores are the credit scores that most lenders use to determine your credit risk. Your FICO credit scores (you have 1 score from each of the 3 major credit bureaus) can affect how much money a lender will lend you and at what terms (interest rate). So, taking steps to improve your FICO scores can often help you qualify for better rates from lenders – which can save you money!