2 min read
18 March 2026

Your credit score plays a crucial role in accessing loans, credit cards, and various financial opportunities. Knowing how to improve your credit score can help you secure better interest rates, higher credit limits, and quicker approvals. This guide outlines practical steps to strengthen your score and improve your overall financial health.

What is a credit score, and why does it matter?

A credit score is a three-digit number that represents your creditworthiness. In India, it usually ranges from 300 to 900, with a score above 750 considered excellent. The most widely used credit bureau is TransUnion CIBIL, which is why it is commonly referred to as a CIBIL score.

Core features:

  • Repayment ability: Reflects how reliably you repay loans and manage credit
  • Lender evaluation: Used by banks and financial institutions to approve or reject loan applications
  • Better loan benefits: A higher score improves your chances of getting lower interest rates and higher credit limits

Why does your credit score matter when borrowing?

Your credit score is one of the most important factors lenders assess when you apply for a loan or credit card.

  • Low score: Indicates higher risk and may result in rejection or higher interest rates
  • High score: Reflects responsible credit behaviour and improves your chances of approval
  • Loan terms: A higher score can help you secure lower interest rates and higher credit limits

How does credit score calculate?

CIBIL score is calculated by assessing 4 major factors of your financial profile. They are as follows:

  • Credit utilisation ratio
  • Credit portfolio mix
  • Repayment track record
  • Amount of existing loans or credit

Factor

Weight

Description

Repayment Track Record

30%

Timely payments of EMIs, credit cards, and loans

Credit Portfolio Mix

25%

Variety of secured and unsecured credit accounts

Credit Utilisation Ratio

25%

Amount of credit used vs. available credit

Number of Loans / Applications

20%

Frequency of new credit inquiries or existing loans


How to increase credit score?

Here are 7 proven ways to improve your credit score:

  • Clear outstanding dues: Pay off overdue EMIs, credit card balances, and existing loans to reduce financial burden
  • Pay on time: Ensure all bills and EMIs are paid before the due date to avoid penalties and negative marks
  • Check for errors: Review your credit report regularly and report any inaccuracies to the credit bureau immediately
  • Maintain low utilisation: Keep your credit usage within 30 to 35 percent of your total limit to show responsible behaviour
  • Avoid frequent applications: Limit multiple loan or credit card applications within a short period
  • Balance your credit mix: Maintain a combination of secured and unsecured credit to strengthen your profile
  • Track your score: Monitor your credit score regularly and adjust your financial habits accordingly

Benefits of improving credit score

Improving your credit score offers numerous financial advantages. A higher credit score demonstrates financial responsibility and creditworthiness, making it easier to access loans and financial products. Here are key benefits:

  • Easier loan approvals: A good credit score increases the likelihood of loan approval, as lenders view you as a reliable borrower.
  • Lower interest rates: With a higher credit score, you can qualify for loans at reduced interest rates, saving money over time.
  • Higher credit limits: Lenders are more likely to offer higher credit limits to individuals with strong credit scores, providing financial flexibility.
  • Better housing options: Landlords and housing agencies often check credit scores, and a higher score can improve your chances of renting or securing housing.
  • Quick approvals: Improved credit scores speed up loan and credit card application processing times.
  • Financial security: A strong credit score allows better preparedness for emergencies and unexpected expenses by ensuring easier access to credit.

Tools to monitor and improve your credit score

Using the right tools can help you track your credit health and make informed financial decisions.

  • CIBIL score check: Access official credit reports and detailed insights into your credit profile
  • Bajaj Finserv credit monitoring: Track score changes regularly and receive actionable tips to improve it
  • EMI and loan calculators: Plan repayments efficiently to maintain a healthy credit profile
  • Credit utilisation trackers: Monitor usage levels to ensure you stay within an optimal credit limit

How to borrow money with bad credit

In order to get a loan with bad credit, you can employ alternate measures like showing substantial financial backup or pledging an asset as collateral. The latter has a higher chance of success and secured borrowing options also offer larger sanctions along with better repayment terms.

Opt for the Bajaj Housing Finance Limited Loan Against Property by pledging any residential or commercial property that you own as security. This will help you get access to a sizable sanction of up to Rs. 10.50 crore*. Further, thanks to the lenient eligibility criteria, you can qualify for this loan even with a less than ideal CIBIL score, so long as other aspects of your finances are in good standing. You can also choose to repay over a flexible tenure up to 15 years and get access to your funds within 72 hours* of the approval.

Check your eligibility for a loan against property with bad CIBIL score, and to get quick access to funding, check your pre-approved offer. This will help you get a tailored deal and enjoy a hassle-free approval online.

Converting feet to yards is an essential skill for many measurement tasks, especially in real estate and construction. By understanding this simple conversion formula, you can handle measurements confidently. If you are planning on upgrading your property or purchasing land, consider using Bajaj Finserv Loan Against Property to finance your plans with ease. With competitive loan against property interest rate options and flexible repayment terms, you can plan better using the loan against property EMI calculator, helping you turn your dream project into reality.

Common mistakes that can lower your credit score

A few common habits can negatively impact your credit score if not managed carefully:

  • Late payments: Even a single missed EMI or credit card bill can bring your score down
  • High credit utilisation: Using a large portion of your available credit may indicate a higher risk
  • Multiple credit applications: Applying for several loans or credit cards in a short period can affect your score
  • Ignoring credit reports: Errors or discrepancies can go unnoticed without regular checks

Property loan based on amount

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Apply for a loan against property in different cities

Loan Against Property in Bangalore

Loan Against Property in Delhi

Loan Against Property in Hyderabad

Loan Against Property in Chennai

Loan Against Property in Kerala

Loan Against Property in Noida

Loan Against Property in Mumbai

Loan Against Property in Ghaziabad

Loan Against Property in Ahmedabad

Loan Against Property in Pune

Loan Against Property in Kolkata

Loan Against Property in Punjab

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Frequently asked questions

Can errors in my credit report lower my score?

Yes, errors in your credit report can negatively impact your credit score. Mistakes like incorrect late payments, outdated debts, or identity theft can lower your score if left uncorrected.

Does paying off a loan improve my credit score?

Yes, paying off a loan on time improves your credit score by demonstrating financial responsibility and reducing debt. It lowers your credit utilization and establishes a positive payment history.

Can closing old credit cards hurt my credit score?

Yes, closing old credit cards can hurt your credit score by reducing your available credit, which raises credit utilization. It can also shorten your credit history, impacting your overall score.

Can co-signing a loan affect my credit score?

Yes, co-signing a loan can impact your credit score. If the primary borrower misses payments, it affects both their and your credit score negatively, as payment history is shared.

How long does it take to improve a credit score?

Improving a credit score usually takes a few months, depending on your current profile and repayment behaviour. Consistent on-time payments and reducing outstanding debt can gradually raise your score over 3 to 6 months.

Can I get a loan with a low credit score?

Yes, but options may be limited, and interest rates are usually higher. Some lenders may offer smaller loan amounts or require additional checks before approval.

Does checking my credit report affect my score?

No, checking your own credit report is considered a soft inquiry and does not impact your score. However, multiple hard enquiries by lenders can slightly reduce it.

What is a good credit score in India?

A credit score of 750 and above is generally considered good in India. It improves your chances of quick approvals and access to better loan terms.

How can I maintain a high credit score?

You can maintain a high score by paying EMIs and credit card bills on time, keeping credit utilisation low, and avoiding frequent loan applications. Regularly reviewing your credit report also helps.

Does paying off loans improve credit score immediately?

Paying off loans can improve your score, but the change may not be immediate. It usually reflects in your credit report within a few weeks as lenders update your repayment history.

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