As a doctor, your patients' health is bound to be your top priority. But you also have to take care of your own well-being. One of the most important aspects of your financial well-being is your credit score, particularly your CIBIL Score.
This three-digit score is a measure of your financial health. It is a major factor that determines your eligibility for specialised loans such as personal loans for doctors.
A good CIBIL Score can help you get loans easily, at competitive interest rates, and with favourable repayment terms.
How is your CIBIL Score calculated?
The Credit Information Bureau (India) Limited (CIBIL) calculates your credit score based on various factors. These factors include your credit card usage, loan repayment history, and other financial transactions. Your credit score ranges from 300 to 900, with anything above 750 being a good score.
Check your CIBIL Score for free
Reasons why you may have a low CIBIL Score
There could be several reasons behind a low CIBIL Score. Maxing out your credit cards or delays in paying your loan EMIs are typical reasons behind a low score. Other reasons such as frequent credit inquiries may also impact your score.
Five tips for doctors to improve their CIBIL Score
Here are a few simple tips that doctors can follow to improve their CIBIL Score.
1. Maintain a healthy credit mix
Having a healthy mix of credit is important for your CIBIL Score. Try to have a balanced combination of secured and unsecured loans. Include loans such as home loans, car loans, and credit cards in your credit profile. A diverse credit profile shows that you can handle different types of credit responsibly. This step can positively impact your CIBIL Score.
2. Repay your dues on time
Late bill payments or defaulting on loans or credit card bills can have a negative impact on your CIBIL Score. Make sure to pay off your dues on time. These payments can be for repayment of EMIs and credit card bills.
3. Manage your credit card utilisation
Check if you have high credit card utilisation, i.e., using a significant portion of your available credit limit. High credit card utilisation can negatively impact your credit score. Try to keep your credit card utilisation below 30% of the available limit.
4. Track your credit history
Review your credit history regularly to ensure your credit report records accurate information. What if you come across discrepancies or errors? Report it and get it resolved immediately so that the incorrect facts do not impact your CIBIL Score.
5. Get a joint loan or a guarantor
Consider applying for a joint loan with a co-applicant who has a good credit score. Alternatively, you can also opt for a loan with a guarantor who has a good credit score. These alternatives may increase your chances of getting approved for a loan and improving your credit score.
Maintaining a healthy CIBIL Score is crucial for doctors to ensure access to credit when needed. You may want to increase your CIBIL Score fast but it takes time to build your credit profile. Take the necessary steps to improve your credit profile and then maintain it.
You may be considering a higher qualification after your MBBS. Or you may be an experienced doctor wanting to set up your own practice. You will have to prepare your credit profile to be eligible for a loan when the time comes to arrange the funds for your education or to set up your clinic or hospital.
A personal loan for doctors can also help you manage expenses such can be international travel costs, wedding expenses, clinic renovation costs, and so on. Bajaj Finserv offers personal loans for doctors of up to Rs. 80 lakh. You can get the funds you need quickly and take advantage of flexible repayment tenures.
Keep a track of your CIBIL Score and manage your credit profile before you apply for a loan.
