What Does Your Credit Score Mean?

Credit score is a number between 300 and 850 that measures an individuals creditworthiness based on credit history. Credit scores are calculated using mathematical methods that incorporate credit history, amount of credit used and available, number of late and on-time payments, whether any payments due are in default, and other variables.

Ratings are as follows:   
Excellent: Over 750   
Very Good: 720 or more     
Acceptable: 660 to 720    
Uncertain: 620 to 660     
Risky: Less than 620.   

Source : www.bills.com

Credit scores are a typical feature in the United States, which refers to a number characteristically between 300 and 850. This figure is based on a number of factors. It can be thought of as statistical analysis of someone's credit files, which corresponds to the creditworthiness of him/her. This basically implies the likelihood that an individual will make payment for his/her bills.

It is imperative to check on your credit mark a minimum of once every year in as this will go a long way in averting possible complications and in swiftly resolving any that could crop up.  
You need to understand that your credit score is chiefly founded on credit report information, in general from three key credit reporting agencies.

It is a collection of metrics which combine the following factors:
Number of credit accounts outstanding, length of time accounts are open, amount of open credit, amount of credit used compared to credit line (try to keep 25% of limit open), and payment history.

Negative payments of course work against you as do excessive inquiries by credit grantors.  Suggest if you have any "dings" on your credit report, some credit card issuers will grant one time reprieves from reporting negative information.  If you find some collection accounts from utility, medical bills, credit cards, etc. you should negotiate the removal of negative charge off information when you negotiate the final payment of the account.

Note that generally payments for apartment rents, utilities, etc. generally do not appear on your credit report unless you have payment problems.