446 Credit score: What You Need to Know in 2025

Who Has a 446 Credit Score?

While age isn't a direct factor in calculating your credit score, there is a clear correlation between age and the average score. Experian data from 2023 shows a steady increase in credit scores across generations:

• 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 446 Credit Score

A credit score of 446 falls into the "very poor" range, which can make qualifying for a traditional credit card a significant challenge. Most major issuers view this score as a high-risk indicator, leading to a high likelihood of application denial for standard unsecured cards. Consequently, your options will likely be limited to secured credit cards that require a cash deposit or specific subprime cards that often come with steep fees and high interest rates.

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Kudos can help you find the best card for your financial situation with its AI-powered tools that analyze your spending habits to deliver personalized recommendations. The platform also provides insights into how different cards may impact your credit score, empowering you to make a decision that aligns with your credit-building goals.

Auto Loans and a 446 Credit Score

A 446 credit score places you in the deep subprime category, which can make securing an auto loan challenging. While approval is possible, you should expect to face significantly higher interest rates and less favorable loan terms.

According to a 2025 auto loan analysis, average interest rates vary significantly based on credit score:

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

Mortgages at a 446 Credit Score

Securing a mortgage with a 446 credit score is exceptionally challenging, as your options are severely limited. According to current mortgage requirements, even government-backed FHA loans—the most accessible option for low-score borrowers—typically require a minimum score of 500. While some specialty non-prime lenders may consider sub-580 scores, these are rare. For most lenders, a 446 score falls below the minimum threshold for approval.

If you manage to find a willing lender, a low credit score will lead to unfavorable loan terms. Expect significantly higher interest rates, which increases your monthly payment and total cost over the loan's life. You will also face a larger down payment requirement of at least 10%, higher mortgage insurance premiums, and a much stricter underwriting process where your finances are scrutinized more heavily.

What's in a Credit Score?

Understanding your credit score can feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle, as it's a blend of several key financial habits. The most common factors that determine your score include:

• Your payment history tracks whether you have paid past credit accounts on time.
• Credit utilization is the percentage of your available credit that you are currently using.
• The length of your credit history considers the age of your oldest account and the average age of all your accounts.
• Credit mix refers to the variety of credit products you have, such as credit cards, retail accounts, and loans.
• New credit inquiries and recently opened accounts can also temporarily impact your score.

How to Improve Your 446 Credit Score

Your credit score is a crucial part of your financial life, but a low score isn't permanent. With consistent effort and the right strategy, it is entirely possible to improve your creditworthiness and build a healthier financial profile.

• Establish Automatic Bill Payments. Payment history is the most significant factor in determining your score, so setting up automatic payments ensures you never miss a due date. This consistent, positive behavior is the foundation for rebuilding credit from a very poor range.
• Reduce Your Credit Utilization Ratio. This ratio compares your credit card balances to your total credit limits, and keeping it below 30% is key. Paying down balances is one of the fastest ways to see an improvement, as it shows lenders you can manage debt responsibly.
• Monitor Your Credit Reports Regularly. Errors and inaccuracies can unfairly drag down your score, and you are entitled to free reports to check for them. Disputing mistakes can provide an immediate boost, while regular monitoring helps you track your progress.
• Become an Authorized User. If you have a trusted friend or family member with a strong credit history, being added to their account can help you. Their long history of on-time payments and low credit utilization can positively impact your own credit file.

The free Kudos browser extension can help you manage your cards and maximize rewards while you work on improving your score.