Last Updated on February 24, 2024 by Ali Hamza
Once in Mumbai, there lived a young couple named Raj and Priya. They dreamt of beginning a new life together. They dreamt to purchase a lovely home near the beach. But there was one crucial obstacle in their path – the CIBIL score.
Significance of CIBIL score
The CIBIL score holds immense importance for individuals in India, including Raj and Priya. As they aspire to buy a luxurious home in their favourite locality, their CIBIL scores will play a significant role in shaping their financial journey.
Interest rates
Having high CIBIL scores not only increases the chances of loan approval but also grants them the privilege of negotiating lower interest rates on their home loan. This advantage can save them a substantial amount of money over the loan tenure, making their dream home more affordable.
Loan approval
When Raj and Priya apply for a home loan to turn their dream into reality, the lender will check their CIBIL scores. A high score, say above 750, assures the bank that they are creditworthy borrowers, significantly increasing the likelihood of loan approval.
Credit card approval
If Raj and Priya decide to apply for a credit card to manage their expenses efficiently, their CIBIL scores will be evaluated by the credit card issuer. A good score will expedite the approval process, ensuring they get the card they desire.
Rental accommodations
Suppose Raj and Priya plan to rent a house in a porch location before purchasing one. In that case, their potential landlord may consider their CIBIL scores as a measure of their financial responsibility and reliability, influencing the decision to rent them the property.
Negotiating power
A strong CIBIL score empowers Raj and Priya to negotiate better terms when dealing with banks or financial institutions. They can demand more favourable interest rates and other benefits, leveraging their creditworthiness.
Utility services
Establishing utility services like electricity, water, or gas connections might be easier with a healthy CIBIL score. A good score indicates their ability to manage financial commitments, fostering trust with utility service providers.
Financial discipline
The process of maintaining a high CIBIL score encourages Raj and Priya to develop and sustain responsible financial habits. They become more mindful of their credit-related actions, leading to improved financial discipline.
Future financial goals
Maintaining a good CIBIL score ensures that Raj and Priya can achieve future financial goals with ease. Whether it’s buying a car, financing their children’s education, or planning a vacation, a healthy credit score opens doors to various opportunities.
Online CIBIL score check by PAN number
With the convenience of technology, Raj and Priya can easily conduct their CIBIL score check free online by PAN number. This enables them to stay informed about their creditworthiness and monitor any changes over time.
Credit history
A significant factor in the CIBIL score calculation is their credit history. It considers the length of their credit accounts, including loans and credit cards. A longer credit history demonstrates their creditworthiness and reliability as borrowers.
CIBIL score calculation
CIBIL score calculation is based on various components that meticulously evaluate Raj and Priya’s credit behaviour and financial history.
Payment history
The timely repayment of loans and credit card bills is crucial for maintaining a healthy CIBIL score. Instances of late payments or defaults can adversely affect their score, indicating potential credit risks.
Types of credit
Having a mix of secured (e.g., home loan) and unsecured (e.g., credit cards) credit showcases Raj and Priya’s credit maturity and diversification. Lenders perceive this positively, as it indicates their ability to manage various types of credit responsibly.
Credit utilisation ratio
This ratio assesses how much of their available credit limit they have utilised. A lower credit utilisation ratio, ideally below 30%, indicates responsible credit management and positively impacts their CIBIL score.
Recent credit activity
Frequent credit inquiries or opening new credit accounts within a short period may negatively impact their CIBIL score. Such activities can suggest financial distress or credit-seeking behaviour, potentially making lenders cautious.
Defaults and settled accounts
Instances of loan defaults or settlements can significantly dent Raj and Priya’s CIBIL score, as it indicates financial instability and affects their creditworthiness in the eyes of lenders.
Credit exposure
The total outstanding debt, including credit cards and loans, is considered while calculating the CIBIL score. Managing their credit exposure responsibly ensures a healthier credit profile.
Public records
Any legal actions, bankruptcies, or tax liens against them are part of their credit report and influence their CIBIL score. Negative public records can have a severe and lasting impact on their creditworthiness.
Number of credit inquiries
Multiple credit inquiries within a short duration could imply financial distress or excessive credit-seeking behaviour. Lenders may perceive this as a red flag and become hesitant to offer credit.
Joint accounts and guarantorships
If Raj or Priya is a joint account holder or a guarantor for someone else’s loan, their credit behaviour could also affect their own CIBIL score. Being cautious about such associations is vital to maintaining a strong credit profile.
Closing unused accounts
While maintaining a healthy credit mix is important, closing unused credit accounts can also impact their CIBIL score. This action may reduce their overall credit limit and affect their credit utilisation ratio.
Frequency of credit applications
Frequent applications for credit can raise concerns among lenders, affecting their perception of Raj and Priya’s creditworthiness. Prudent credit management involves being selective about applying for new credit.
Credit education
Raj and Priya realise the significance of educating themselves about their CIBIL score and the factors influencing it. By staying informed, they can make better financial decisions, work towards improving their score, and secure their financial future effectively.
In conclusion, understanding the intricacies of CIBIL score computation and its various components empowers individuals like Raj and Priya to navigate the world of credit responsibly. By maintaining a healthy credit profile, they can achieve their financial aspirations and create a secure foundation for their dreams.
