While you may have a good idea how important your credit score is, you may be unclear about how to improve or maintain a good credit score. One thing is clear, today more than just your lender is paying attention to your credit score.

Employers look at your credit score to see if you're a worthy hire, and landlords use them to determine if you would be a good tenant. Some utility companies set deposits based on credit scores and insurance companies can use them to determine your premium.

The good news is, if you have a credit score that's less than favorable, you have the power to improve your score and save yourself some money.

Your credit score is a number that represents the information in your credit file and shows how likely you are to pay a debt on time. Your credit score is also called your FICO number. Scores range from 300 to 850 and are used to determined how risky it is to do business with you. Typically, the higher your score, the better rate you receive because you're considered less of a credit risk.

Learn more about your credit score and steps you can take to increase your score:

• Understand your credit score
• How to move your credit score
• Don't be misled - 5 common credit misconceptions

Find out your score by requesting an annual credit report. Manage your score by learning facts and tips for maintaining good credit.

• www.annualcreditreport.com - free annual credit report