A credit score is calculated based on your credit history to give credit card companies a simpler "lend/don't lend" answer. This number helps the lender identify the amount of risk incurred if they lend to someone. The credit score is quicker and less subjective than a credit report. The system awards points based on information in the credit report, and the resulting score is compared to other consumers with similar profiles. A lender can predict if someone is too likely to repay a loan and make payments on time. Credit scoring allows stores to offer instant credit.