How to check your CIBIL score for free and why it matters

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If you’ve ever applied for a loan or credit card, you’ve probably heard the words “CIBIL score.” But many people still don’t know what it really means or how to check it without paying. The good news? Checking your CIBIL score is free, easy, and takes just a few minutes online. And knowing your score matters more than you think.

What is a CIBIL score?

Your CIBIL score is a three-digit number, ranging between 300 and 900, that reflects your creditworthiness. It’s based on your past credit behaviour—how you’ve paid EMIs, used credit cards, and managed debt. A score above 750 is generally considered good and increases your chances of getting loans quickly and at better interest rates.

How to check your score for free

The official website of CIBIL (TransUnion CIBIL) lets you check your credit score for free once a year. You just need to enter basic details like your PAN card number, date of birth, and email ID. Once verified, you’ll see your credit report and score. Many banks and financial apps also offer free CIBIL score checks anytime, which is helpful if you want to track it more often.

Why your CIBIL score matters

Lenders look at your score before approving any loan or card. A high score means you’re seen as a reliable borrower, while a low score signals risk. With a better score, you not only get approvals faster but also enjoy lower interest rates, higher credit card limits, and more negotiating power with banks.

What affects your score

Your payment history has the biggest impact—missing EMIs or paying credit card bills late will drag it down. Using too much of your available credit, having too many loan applications, or closing old credit cards can also hurt your score. On the flip side, timely payments and responsible credit use steadily improve it.

Tips to improve and maintain your score

Don’t wait until you need a loan to think about your score. Always pay bills on time, keep credit card utilization below 30 percent of the limit, and avoid applying for multiple loans at once. Checking your score regularly helps you spot errors in your credit report that may be lowering your score unfairly.