When you download your instant online credit score, there are a few key important things to know. Most importantly, not all credit score services are created equally. Make sure you are downloading the right information and don't get misled obtaining a credit score that doesn't really mean anything.

What the average consumer doesn't realize is that there are dozens of different credit scores. A credit score is just a way to measure your credit history and likelihood that you'll repay your debts. In other words, it measures your credit worthiness. But there are only a couple of these scores that are actually reliable. For that reason, only a couple of these credit ratings are actually used by banks and lenders, and that's the same information you want to access as you download your instant online credit score.

Most notably is the Fair Isaac Corp (FICO) score. This is the rating that is used by 90% of lenders and banks, and should be the only one you care about. Most other credit rating agencies try to mimic the FICO score because it is the gold standard when it comes to determining your credit worthiness.

When you request your information online, it is important to make sure it is from a reputable company as well. There are many scam sites that try to pose as being a reporting agency, but in actuality they are just collecting your private information. That personal data can be used for identity theft or in other malicious ways.