What Is a Credit Score and Why It Matters

A credit score is a three-digit number — typically 300 to 850 in South Africa — that represents your creditworthiness. The higher your score, the better your chances of being approved for loans, accounts and rentals. It is built from your payment history, debt levels, credit age, credit mix and recent applications.

How credit scores are calculated

• Your payment history
• How much debt you have
• The length of your credit history
• Types of credit used
• New credit inquiries

Why a good score matters

A healthy credit score can help you access better terms and larger amounts. Lenders such as eKasi Pay Credit also run an affordability check, so a good score works best alongside stable, verifiable income. You can improve your score by paying on time, keeping balances low, and avoiding too many applications at once.

Remember, your credit score reflects your financial behaviour. Treat credit responsibly and it opens doors. For practical steps, read How to Rebuild Your Credit Score or visit our FAQs.