Why is your credit score so important for a personal loan?
In modern financial solutions, personal loans have emerged as a reliable ally for the diverse financial needs of Indian individuals. Whether you envision advanced education, orchestrating a grand wedding, or need a safety net during unforeseen emergencies, a personal loan offers a viable avenue to fund these aspirations.
Despite common misconceptions, it’s important to note that a strategic approach to personal loans doesn’t necessarily negatively impact your credit score. Your credit score, an emblem of your financial history, is crucial in shaping your economic trajectory.
What is a personal loan?
A personal loan is an unsecured form of credit that enables you to borrow money from a financial institution, such as a bank or a non-banking financial company (NBFC), without pledging any collateral.
This flexibility makes personal loans an attractive choice for various financial needs. They offer a fixed loan amount, tenure, and interest rate, and the borrower agrees to repay the borrowed amount in equated monthly installments (EMIs) over a specified period.
Relation between personal loan interest rate and your credit score
One of the most significant factors influencing the cost of your personal loan is the interest rate. Your credit score plays a pivotal role in determining the interest rate the lender offers.
A higher credit score generally results in a lower personal loan interest rate, which signifies a lower loan default risk. Conversely, having a lower credit score can result in a higher interest rate or, at times, the denial of a loan application.
The impact of credit score on personal loan approval
When you request a personal loan, lenders will evaluate the credit score to determine your creditworthiness. A good credit score shows that you have a track record of responsible borrowing and are more likely to pay back the loan promptly. This boosts your chances of loan approval and puts you in a stronger position to negotiate better loan terms.
How to improve your credit score?
If you find that your credit score is not as high as you’d like it to be, don’t worry; there are steps you can take to improve it:
Pay your bills on time: It’s crucial to pay your bills on time, such as utility bills, credit card dues, and EMIs, to avoid a significant negative impact on your credit score due to late payments.
Maintain a healthy credit utilisation ratio: Keep your credit card balances low and within manageable limits. High credit card utilisation can signal financial stress and negatively impact your credit score.
Check your credit report regularly: It’s vital to obtain a copy of your credit report from credit bureaus and thoroughly review it for any errors or discrepancies. If you find any inaccuracies, report them to the credit bureau for correction.
Avoid frequent loan applications: Making multiple loan applications within a short period can be seen as a sign of financial desperation and can harm your credit score.
Diversify your credit mix: Having a mix of various types of credit, such as loans or credit cards, can positively impact your credit report.
To wrap up
Don’t hesitate to apply for a personal loan when seeking financial aid. Responsible borrowing and timely repayment will provide the assistance you need and contribute positively to your credit report. Your prudent approach will pave the way for a brighter financial future.