Who Has a 382 Credit Score?

While age isn't a direct factor in credit score calculations, there is a clear trend of scores increasing over time. According to an analysis of 2023 Experian data, the average FICO 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 382 Credit Score

A credit score of 382 falls into the "very poor" range, which can significantly hinder your ability to obtain a credit card. Lenders view this score as a high-risk indicator, making them hesitant to approve applications for traditional, unsecured credit cards. Consequently, your options will likely be restricted to secured credit cards or specific subprime cards that often come with higher fees and interest rates.

‍

Kudos can help you find a suitable card with its AI-powered tools that filter through nearly 3,000 options based on your financial goals. The platform offers personalized recommendations and provides insights into how a new card could impact your credit, empowering you to make a more informed decision.

Auto Loans and a 382 Credit Score

A 382 credit score places you in the deep subprime category, which can make securing an auto loan very challenging. Lenders view this score as high-risk, often resulting in the highest interest rates and least favorable loan terms, according to a 2025 rate analysis.

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

Mortgages at a 382 Credit Score

A 382 credit score falls significantly below the minimum threshold for nearly all mortgage types. Even government-backed FHA loans, the most accessible option for lower credit, require a minimum score of 500 with a 10% down payment. According to mortgage requirement data, conventional lenders look for scores of 620 or higher, making it highly unlikely to secure a traditional home loan.

‍

If you were to find a specialty lender, a low score would lead to severe terms. Expect substantially higher interest rates, which drastically increase your monthly payments and the total loan cost. You would also face higher fees and more expensive mortgage insurance premiums, further limiting what you can afford.

What's in a Credit Score?

Figuring out what goes into your credit score can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle, but it generally boils down to a handful of key elements. The most common factors include:

• Your payment history, which tracks whether you pay your bills on time, is the most significant factor.
• Credit utilization, or the amount of credit you're using compared to your total available credit, also plays a major role.
• The length of your credit history demonstrates your experience with managing credit over time.
• Having a healthy mix of different types of credit, such as credit cards and installment loans, can positively impact your score.
• Finally, recent credit inquiries, which occur when you apply for new credit, are also taken into account.

How to Improve Your 382 Credit Score

Improving your credit score takes time and consistent effort, but it is entirely possible to rebuild your financial standing. Here are four proven methods you can use to start raising your score:

• Monitor your credit reports. A score in this range could be the result of errors on your report, and correcting them can provide a quick boost. Regularly checking your reports also helps you track your progress and protect yourself from identity theft.
• Establish automatic bill payments. Your payment history is the single most important factor in your credit score, so paying bills on time is crucial for improvement. Setting up automatic payments ensures you never miss a due date, which is a fundamental step in building a positive history.
• Apply for a secured credit card. With a 382 credit score, you may struggle to get approved for traditional credit, but a secured card can help you build or rebuild your credit history. These cards report your payments to the major credit bureaus, allowing you to demonstrate responsible credit use over time.
• Address collection accounts. Accounts in collections are significant negative items that severely drag down your score. Contacting the collection agency to negotiate a settlement or a goodwill deletion can help remove this damaging mark from your report.

For more help managing your credit cards and maximizing rewards, consider using a financial companion like Kudos.