What does a credit score represent?

A credit score is primarily an indicator of a consumer's creditworthiness. It provides lenders with a standardized assessment to gauge the likelihood that an individual will repay borrowed money. This score is derived from various factors, including payment history, amount of debt, length of credit history, types of credit accounts, and recent inquiries into a person's credit.

Understanding creditworthiness is essential for lenders, as it influences the decision to grant loans, the interest rates offered, and the overall terms of credit. A higher credit score suggests a lower risk for lenders, which can lead to more favorable borrowing conditions for the individual.

The other options address different financial concepts. For instance, income is relevant for assessing an individual's ability to pay but is not directly measured by a credit score. Net worth involves calculating assets minus liabilities, which is not reflected in the credit score either. A record of financial accounts can summarize an individual's financial activity but does not encapsulate the creditworthiness conveyed through the score.