topic Re: 700 Credit Score but 75% Utilization in Credit Card Applications

700 Credit Score but 75% Utilization

Manhattanlad — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:27:31 GMT

So, my income runs up and down as a freelancer. I can be 0% utilization back to 75% utilization because of my business. I'm looking at applying for a 0% transfer card for the short term. But is there any point at all applying when I have such high utilization? Citibank always shows up on those equifax card ideas but when i go to their site they don't pre-approve me. Anyone with success with a similar situation? Otherwise i haven't made a late payment in over 15 years...

Re: 700 Credit Score but 75% Utilization

Patient957 — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:34:37 GMT

Citi's pre approval tool is not known for being accurate. You could just "risk it for the biscuit," as they say. I would also be concerned about apping with 75% UT.

You didn't ask this, but I'll offer it unsolicited anyway -- Why not get a business card or two to keep the utilization off your personal credit?

Re: 700 Credit Score but 75% Utilization

JoeRockhead — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:36:33 GMT

You'd likely have better odds for a higher approval with lower utilization. Even then I'd forget Citi being they're not known to be very generous with starting limits. Instead maybe look into a no rewards platinum card from a credit union for your BT needs.

Re: 700 Credit Score but 75% Utilization

cashorcharge — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 18:38:56 GMT

I tend to get the best BT offers from USBank and their subsidiary, Elan.

By chance...is that debt business related or are you living off the credit while your income fluctuates?

I ask because you may find value in exploring business credit to shift that debt off your personal reports, get a Business BT and shift some debt away to improve your score for the long term, and keep your utilization more consistent

Re: 700 Credit Score but 75% Utilization

Sbrav77 — Sat, 30 Aug 2025 14:34:14 GMT

I actually got one of my highest sl's with Citi. I've built up other cards higher before applying with Citi though. Citi gave me a starting limit of $12,000.