FICO launches new credit score combining traditional data with cash flow

FICO (NYSE: FICO) announced the general availability of its next-generation UltraFICO Score, which combines traditional credit data with real-time cash flow information from consumer bank accounts. The enhanced credit score was developed through a partnership with Plaid, a financial data network company.

The UltraFICO Score incorporates cash flow insights from consumer-permissioned bank account data across Plaid's network of more than 12,000 financial institutions. The score analyzes cash inflows and outflows, account balance stability, and spending behavior alongside traditional credit information.

"The UltraFICO Score advances credit scoring by delivering cash flow insights in a format lenders already understand, on the same score scale they already use," said Julie May, vice president and general manager of B2B Scores at FICO.

According to FICO's analysis, the enhanced score shows a 7% relative increase in approvals with no incremental risk and a 15% relative performance improvement for prime applicants with limited credit histories. The company reported that 79% of non-prime applicants with a history of positive account balances receive higher scores.

The score uses the same scale as the traditional FICO Score, which is used by 90% of top U.S. lenders. This alignment allows lenders to integrate the new scoring system into existing credit policies and risk management frameworks without operational changes.

Lenders can access the UltraFICO Score through Plaid Check, Plaid's consumer reporting agency. The score is distributed regardless of how lenders currently receive FICO Scores and is designed to meet compliance requirements through secure, consent-based data sharing.

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