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What is a Credit Score and Why Should You Care?
What is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a 3-digit number that represents your creditworthiness — essentially, how likely you are to repay borrowed money (loans, credit cards, etc.) on time.
In India, credit scores are most commonly calculated by CIBIL (Credit Information Bureau India Limited), although other bureaus like Experian, Equifax, and CRIF High Mark also provide scores.
- Range: 300 to 900
- Good Credit Score: 750 and above
- Average Score: 600–749
- Poor Score: Below 600
How is a Credit Score Calculated?
Your score is calculated based on five main factors:
|
Factor |
Weightage (approx.) |
What It Means |
|
Payment History |
35% |
On-time repayment of loans & EMIs |
|
Credit Utilization Ratio |
30% |
% of credit limit used vs available |
|
Length of Credit History |
15% |
How long you’ve had active credit |
|
Types of Credit Used |
10% |
Mix of credit cards, loans, etc. |
|
New Credit Inquiries |
10% |
Number of recent applications for credit |
Why Should You Care About Your Credit Score?
Whether you’re applying for a home loan, a credit card, or even renting a house — your credit score matters more than you think. Here’s why:
1. Easier Loan Approvals
- Lenders check your credit score before giving loans.
- A high score improves your chances of instant approval.
- A low score can lead to rejections or delays.
2. Better Interest Rates
- A good credit score means you are considered “low risk”.
- Banks and NBFCs may offer lower interest rates on:
- Home loans
- Personal loans
- Credit cards
- Example: With a score of 800, you might get a home loan at 8.2% interest. With a score of 620, it might be 9.5% or more.
3. Higher Credit Limits
- Strong credit scores can lead to higher credit card limits or pre-approved personal loans.
- Useful during emergencies or big purchases.
4. Better Negotiating Power
- You can negotiate for better loan terms or lower processing fees.
- Some banks even waive joining/annual fees for high-score customers.
5. Useful for Renting or Employment
- Landlords may ask for credit reports before renting.
- Some employers (especially in finance roles) check credit behavior.
6. Faster Approval for Utilities & Insurance
- A good credit score can help avoid security deposits on:
- Broadband
- Mobile connections
- Electricity or gas connections
- Some insurers now use credit-based scoring for premium calculation.
What Hurts Your Credit Score?
- Late or missed EMI/credit card payments
- Overusing credit cards (utilization > 30%)
- Applying for too many loans/credit cards in a short time
- Defaulting on loans
- Having only one type of credit (e.g., just credit cards, no loans)
How to Improve or Maintain a Good Credit Score?
- Always pay bills and EMIs on time.
- Keep credit utilization below 30%.
- Avoid applying for multiple loans/cards simultaneously.
- Check your credit report regularly (for free once a year on CIBIL or RBI-mandated platforms).
- Maintain a healthy mix of secured (home, auto loans) and unsecured credit (credit cards, personal loans).
Key Takeaway
Your credit score isn’t just a number — it’s a financial reputation.
A good score can save you lakhs in interest, offer you financial flexibility, and open doors when you need it most.
Start building it early, and protect it like an asset.
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