Per Card Utilization levels that make an "impact" - or does everything count?

[sdanaher]

Are there certain thresholds for utilazation % that matter most in the FICO formula?  Or is 49.5% vs 50% the same different to FICO as 76% is to 76.5%?

Trying to determine the best bang for my "buck" for FICO scoring purposes on a couple cards.  Rates are all the same.  A couple I can get below 50% with some extra cash laying around... or i can spend it all on one and get that one down from 90 to 80%

[Anonymous]

i would work on the 90% cards first to get down to 80 or less.  FICO looks at both total utilization and also individual card utilization.  Max on either is a hit.  But since you cannot get the total down to ideal levels, I would work on getting those maxed under 70%.  Then you can whittle on them from there.

The caveat to this would be if your 90% card happened to be a BT for a really low promo rate.  I wouldn't pay off the lowest rates first, I would focus on the best bottom line financial benefit first....being the highest fee cards, because as you pay those down, the savings you realize can then be used on the other card(s).

IMO

[Jazzzy]

I agree with txjohn. Having cards close to maxed out will draw the attention of your other creditors. Many forum members have seen credit lines reduced or accounts closed based on their usage on other cards. What you do on one card can affect them all.