ELI5 Credit Scores - why do FICO scores end at 850?

What was the recent algorithm change that is affecting everyone's credit scores? Why do FICO scores start at 300 and end at 850? What factors affect my credit score?   ... We explain like i'm five!   Thank you to Empower, the sponsor of today's episode. For more info about Empower, visit: empower.me/ELI5     Thank you to the r/explainlikeimfive community as always and in particular the following users whose questions and comments formed the basis of this discussion: snowydew, acreditguru, less_is_happiness, chuyskywalker, aeyln & sonobomb. To the ELI5 community that has supported us so far, thanks for all your feedback and comments. Send us an e-mail: [email protected]