CIBIL score explained: what it is, how it’s built, how to fix it

What goes into the score

• Payment history — 35%
• Utilization — 30%
• Credit age — 15%
• Credit mix — 10%
• New inquiries — 10%

What hurts you the most

1. Late payment (drops 50–80 points immediately).
2. Utilization >50% on any card.
3. Closing your oldest card.
4. Multiple loan applications in 30 days.

How to fix a low score in 6 months

1. Set autopay everywhere.
2. Drop utilization below 30%.
3. Stop new applications.
4. Dispute incorrect entries via CIBIL portal.

A 100-point bump can save you ₹5L+ on a home loan.