Reason code

Reason codes, also called score factors or adverse action codes, are numerical or word-based codes that describe the reasons why a particular credit score is not higher. For example, a code might cite a high utilization rate of available credit as the main negative influence on a particular credit score. The codes are often provided with credit score reports, or with adverse action reports issued after denial of credit. Different sources of credit scores use different code systems. The website www.reasoncode.org provides explanations of the codes.