Your 5-minute guide to credit scores

A better score means a better deal from landlords, lenders, insurers and other creditors. Use these dozen-plus tips to boost yours.

Your credit score is likely the most important three-digit number in your life.

Your score affects how much you pay for credit, and it can affect other bills you pay, where you live and where you work.

Banks and credit card companies review your score when deciding whether to extend you credit and how much interest to charge. (See "What bad credit really costs you.")
A high score can lead to lower car- and home-insurance premiums, a deposit waiver from utility companies and a better service package from the cell-phone company. (See "5 people who check your credit.")
Many landlords check credit scores before allowing you to sign a lease. (See "Credit checks: A civil rights issue?")
Many employers -- 35% in 2003 -- are doing credit checks on prospective employees, particularly those who would deal with money. Employers need your written permission to make the check and must give you a chance to respond.