There are approximately 51,80,00,000 results for the query ‘What is a good credit score?’ The hype isn’t about the number of searches, but about the ultimate answer: what exactly is a good credit score?
A credit score is one of the reasons for numerous credit-based opportunities such as-
- Credit card or loan applications are more likely to be approved
- Higher negotiation power
- Lower rate of interest
- A borrower with a good credit score is given more preference
- A great number of deals & discounts
While the above points highlight the importance of a good credit score and the intent behind it, it must be noted that there are some habits that restrict one to earn/retain/regain a good credit score.
What is a Good Credit Score?
A credit score of 750 to 900 is considered excellent. A good credit score assists banks and financial institutions in determining whether or not to lend money to a borrower. In contrast, a borrower with a low credit score misses out on numerous credit-based opportunities and benefits.
The table below defines the implications of various credit scores in order to provide an understanding of how a borrower’s credit score health looks and whether he/she needs to work harder to achieve a good credit score or not-
| Credit Score | Credit Score Health |
| 300-549 | Poor credit score Portrays irregular payment behaviour It provides information on missed/delayed credit payments Demonstrates a greater reliance on credit Chances of becoming a defaulter |
| 550-649 | Fair credit score Shows irresponsible credit payment behaviour Shows borrower’s multiple hard inquiry attempts (if any) |
| 650-749 | Good credit score Shows responsible behaviour when it comes to credit or loan EMI repayment Eligible for credit and loans Low risk of turning into a defaulter Reasonable interest rate is charged against the loan, however, the borrower will not get a higher credit limit |
| 750-900 | Excellent credit score Little to no chance of becoming a defaulter Highlights responsible credit repayment behaviour Shows no default payments made Error free credit report Lower rate of interest Higher negotiation power |
Factors that Affect the Credit Score
There are numerous factors that influence a borrower’s credit score; however, it is the borrower’s responsibility to work continuously to improve it. The following are a few factors that affect credit scores and, if left unresolved, become a hindrance in the loan or credit card approval process:
- Poor/bad repayment history
- Higher use of credit utilization ratio
- Numerous multiple hard inquiries within a particular period of time
- Comments/error/issues in the credit report
- Outstanding balance
- Multiple partially settled payments
How to Improve Credit Score?
Just as there are numerous factors that have a negative impact on one’s credit score, there are numerous ways to improve one’s credit score. All a borrower needs to do is be strict and responsible about credit repayment. Some of the steps a borrower should take to maintain or regain a good credit score are as follows:
- Make on-time credit payments
- Ensure to use credit utilization ratio judiciously
- Do not conduct multiple hard inquiries
- Maintain a proper balance of secured and unsecured loans
- Resolve any errors, issues, or comments on your credit report
- Do not take comments in the credit report casually
- Avoid partially settled payments
- Don’t leave outstanding balances
- Set timely reminders for payments
- Most importantly, determine the amount of credit required and the number of expenses that can be managed
These are some of the methods a borrower can use to regain and maintain a good credit score. Furthermore, it is recommended that the credit report be thoroughly reviewed, preferably twice a year and that the credit score be checked on a regular basis.
How to Check Credit Score on Paytm?
There are numerous ways to check your credit score online. One such method is to use the Paytm mobile application to check one’s credit score. Paytm enables a borrower to quickly check his or her credit score in minutes without having to enter too many details. Here’s how to check your credit score using the Paytm mobile app:
- Login to the Paytm mobile application
- Navigate to ‘Loans and Credit Cards’
- Click on ‘Free Credit Score’
- Check your credit score for free!
Paytm allows borrowers to view their detailed credit report. The report provides a brief overview of the overall factors that may have influenced the credit score collectively. Additionally, you can also find various tips to improve your credit score.
