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How Credit Card Impacts Your Credit Score?

By Mayashree Acharya

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Updated on: Apr 1st, 2025

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2 min read

A credit score is a key factor that determines your trustworthiness to lenders and influences their decision on whether to grant you a new credit facility. Your credit card transactions play a direct role in shaping this score. Here’s how they are interconnected:

Card Payments

Timely credit card payments are crucial. Missing a due date negatively impacts your credit score, even if it happens just once. Each delay gets recorded in your credit history, affecting your overall score. If your credit score is low, consistent on-time payments for at least 6-8 months can improve it significantly.

Credit Utilisation Ratio

Your credit utilisation ratio is another major factor. This ratio, calculated as the percentage of credit used from your total limit, should ideally be below 40% to maintain a strong credit profile. Lenders prefer applicants who use their credit responsibly and don’t max out their cards.

EMI-to-Income Ratio

The EMI-to-Income Ratio also plays a vital role. If your combined loan and credit card repayments exceed 50% of your income, lenders may consider you financially overextended. Keeping your repayment obligations below this threshold ensures a healthy credit score.

No Credit History

Lastly, having no credit history means your score remains ‘Not Applicable (NA)’ or ‘No History (NH)’. To establish a strong credit profile, consider applying for a credit card, making small transactions, and ensuring timely payments. This helps in building a positive credit history and securing a good credit score.

Related Articles:
1. CIBIL
2. Is Credit Score the Same as a Credit Report?
3. CIBIL Credit Report
4. Credit Rating Agencies in India
5. Experian Credit Report and Credit Score
6. Equifax Credit Score
7. Good CIBIL Score
8. CIBIL Registration and Login Process
9. CIBIL Dispute Resolution Process
10. CIBIL Grievance and Redressal Process
11. Difference Between Credit Card and Debit Card

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does missing a credit card payment affect my credit score?
How long does it take to improve my credit score after missed payments?
What is the ideal credit utilisation ratio for a good credit score?
Can using multiple credit cards affect my credit score?
How does my EMI-to-Income Ratio impact my credit score?
What happens if I have no credit history?
Does paying my credit card bill in full improve my credit score?
Will closing an old credit card impact my credit score?
How long do late payments stay on my credit report?
Can I increase my credit score quickly?
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About the Author

I am an advocate by profession and have a keen interest in writing. I write articles in various categories, from legal, business, personal finance, and investments to government schemes. I put words in a simplified manner and write easy-to-understand articles. Read more

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