Scores dropped... I just don't get it

[Anonymous]

I've been buying my scores monthly and for some reason they dropped a lot this time.

12/14/07 - Equifax 687

1/14/08 - Equifax 633

No new accounts.  No new inquiries.  No missed payments.  What would cause a drop like this?  54 points!

[SmartCookie]

Buying FICOs monthly?  If so, see if there is a big UTI change on your report.  Possibly a large amount of holiday charges reported.  If so, this will recover as soon as they are reported paid off or lower next month.

[Junejer]

The experts are going to want more information. How is your util? Compare the two reports and see exactly what changed. Something would have had to change in order for your scores to drop 54 points.

Edit: SC, you beat me to it.

Message Edited by ByrdMan on 01-15-2008 10:27 PM

[Anonymous]

Xmas shopping?

I would be looking with a fine tooth comb to find 50 points.  

[SmartCookie]

Evenin' Timothy.   

I'm remaining hopeful.... I will not say collection... I won't. 

[Anonymous]

According to my credit at a glance, my revolving credit amount in January is $753 less than December and my mortgages are $1243 less.  Most of Christmas was purchased with cash.  I use my credit cards for gas and then make a higher than minimum payment.

[SmartCookie]

Did you use Credit Complete?  You definitely need to do the side by side... with the fine tooth comb.  Check the status of everything as well.... did something old and bad (like a collection) re-report?

[Anonymous]

Utilization appears to be slightly different between the two months.  The one main credit card I use is $750 higher than previous month.  The other one is $115 higher.

[SmartCookie]

With that info, it does not seem to be UTI.  Last month you pulled FICO, not FAKO?

[Anonymous]

Not sure what FAKO is.  I always pull all FICO scores.  Experian had no change but Equifax took the 54 point hit.  I just don't get it.  If I compare the credit-at-a-glance, 4 late payments rolled off, 5 inquiries rolled off, 2 accounts in last year rolled off, and 3 accounts just rolled off totally.