What is SCHUFA?
SCHUFA Holding AG is Germany's main credit bureau. It collects data on credit accounts, loans, payment history and existing obligations from 9,000+ partner companies. Your score is a percentage representing the probability of timely repayment.
How to check your SCHUFA for free
You are entitled to one free SCHUFA Datenkopie (data copy) per year under §15 BDSG. Order it at meineschufa.de. The paid 'Bonitätsauskunft' is for landlords and includes a presentable certificate.
How to improve your SCHUFA score
Pay all bills on time, keep credit utilization low, avoid multiple loan applications in short periods, close unused credit lines and dispute any incorrect entries with SCHUFA directly. Most improvements show within 30-90 days.
SCHUFA score ranges
| Score | Risk class | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 97.5%+ | A-B | Very low risk — best rates |
| 95-97.5% | C-D | Low risk — good rates |
| 90-95% | E-G | Moderate risk — higher rates |
| 80-90% | H-K | High risk — limited options |
| <80% | L-N | Very high risk — most lenders decline |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is checking my own SCHUFA bad?
No — checking your own score has no impact. Only lender inquiries leave a soft mark.
How long do negative entries stay?
Most negative entries are deleted after 3 years (e.g. completed payment defaults).
Does opening a bank account affect SCHUFA?
Yes — banks register the account, but a routine account opening has minimal score impact.
Can foreigners build SCHUFA?
Yes — opening a bank account, getting a mobile contract and a credit card all establish a SCHUFA file.
Ready to get started?
Open your account in minutes — fully digital, BaFin-regulated, with German IBAN.