When considering a borrower, which credit score should be used?

The middle credit score is the most appropriate choice when evaluating a borrower, particularly in situations involving multiple credit scores. This method helps to provide a more balanced assessment of a borrower's creditworthiness. Lenders typically obtain credit reports from the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Each bureau may present a different score based on their individual evaluation methods.

Using the middle score minimizes fluctuating outliers that can skew the evaluation process. For instance, if one bureau generates a significantly higher or lower score due to errors or differing data, the middle score offers a more accurate representation of the borrower's overall credit health. This approach helps lenders make informed lending decisions that reflect the borrower's true risk profile.