How to Get a Credit Card with Low CIBIL Score (2025 Guide)
Outline & Key Sections
1. Introduction
- Explain what CIBIL score is
- Why CIBIL score matters for credit cards
- Challenges faced with low CIBIL score
- Promise of the article — practical tips to get a credit card despite low score
2. What is a CIBIL Score?
- Explanation of CIBIL and credit scoring
- Score ranges and what low score means
- Impact of low CIBIL on credit card applications
3. Why is it Difficult to Get a Credit Card with Low CIBIL Score?
- Risk perception by banks and NBFCs
- Common reasons for rejection
- Impact on credit limits and interest rates
4. Types of Credit Cards Available for Low CIBIL Scores
- Secured credit cards (with fixed deposits)
- Prepaid credit cards
- Cards from NBFCs or fintech companies with relaxed criteria
- Co-branded credit cards and their criteria
5. How to Get a Credit Card with Low CIBIL Score: Step-by-Step Guide
- Check and know your CIBIL score first
- Opt for a secured credit card
- Maintain a stable income proof and documentation
- Use a co-applicant or guarantor
- Consider credit cards from non-traditional lenders (fintech)
- Apply through referral programs or with existing bank relationships
- Keep credit utilization low on any existing credit lines
- Avoid multiple credit card applications at once
6. Tips to Improve Your CIBIL Score While Using a Credit Card
- Pay EMIs and credit card dues on time
- Keep utilization below 30%
- Avoid default and late payments
- Regularly check your credit report for errors
- Use credit cards responsibly to build positive credit history
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I get a credit card with a CIBIL score below 600?
- How long does it take to improve credit score with responsible credit card usage?
- Are secured credit cards safer for banks?
- What documents do I need to apply for a secured credit card?
8. Conclusion
- Summary of key points
- Encouragement to maintain discipline for credit improvement
- Final thoughts on patience and financial literacy
Sample Introduction & First Few Sections
How to Get a Credit Card with Low CIBIL Score in 2025: A Complete Guide
Having a good credit score is essential when you want to get a credit card with attractive benefits, high credit limits, and lower interest rates. However, what if your CIBIL score is low? Does it mean you have no chance of owning a credit card? Not at all! In this detailed guide, we will explore everything you need to know about getting a credit card even if your CIBIL score is below average.
What is a CIBIL Score?
A CIBIL score is a three-digit number ranging from 300 to 900 that represents your creditworthiness. It is calculated based on your past credit behavior, including timely payments, loan history, credit utilization, and more. A score above 750 is generally considered good, while a score below 650 is viewed as risky by lenders.
If your CIBIL score is low, it usually means you may have missed payments, have high credit utilization, or have other credit issues. This score is a key factor that banks check before approving your credit card application.
Why is it Difficult to Get a Credit Card with Low CIBIL Score?
Banks and financial institutions perceive applicants with low credit scores as high-risk borrowers. This results in:
- Frequent rejection of credit card applications
- Lower credit limits if approved
- Higher interest rates or fees
- Limited credit card options
However, the market now offers several alternatives and products designed to help individuals with low scores access credit responsibly.
Why does it matter?
- A high score (750 and above) means banks trust you and are more likely to approve credit applications at favorable terms.
- A low score (below 650) indicates a risk of delayed payments, defaults, or high credit utilization, causing lenders to hesitate in giving you credit.
Your CIBIL score is checked by banks and NBFCs before they approve your credit card application. A low score often leads to rejection or approval with higher interest rates and lower limits.
Why Is It Difficult to Get a Credit Card with a Low CIBIL Score?
Lenders use your CIBIL score to assess the risk you pose. If your score is low:
- High rejection rates: Many traditional banks outright reject applications from low-score individuals.
- Lower credit limits: Even if approved, the credit limit is often small, limiting your purchasing power.
- Higher interest rates and fees: Lenders compensate for risk by charging higher interest or processing fees.
- Fewer card options: Premium cards or reward cards usually require higher scores.
Because of this, many people with low scores feel disheartened. But there are specific cards and strategies designed for low-score applicants.
Types of Credit Cards Available for Low CIBIL Scores
If your credit score is low, you don’t need to give up hope. Here are credit card options you can explore:
- Secured Credit Cards
These cards require you to keep a fixed deposit with the bank as collateral. The credit limit is usually equal to the FD amount. Since the risk for banks is minimized, they approve such cards easily, even with low or no credit score. This is a great way to start rebuilding your credit. - Prepaid Credit Cards
These are not credit cards in the true sense but allow you to spend money you load on the card. They help you build a credit history but don’t offer a credit limit or interest-free period. - Cards from NBFCs or Fintech Lenders
Many NBFCs and fintech companies have started offering credit cards with relaxed credit score criteria. They use alternate data like income, bank statements, and spending patterns for approval. - Co-Branded Cards with Retailers
Some retail stores offer credit cards with easier eligibility, sometimes tied to store loyalty programs. These often have lower credit limits but are easier to get. - Credit Cards with a Co-Applicant or Guarantor
Having a co-applicant with a good credit score or a guarantor can increase your chances of approval.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Credit Card with Low CIBIL Score
- Check Your CIBIL Score and Report
Before applying, get your latest CIBIL score and credit report from the official website or trusted platforms. This helps you understand where you stand and if there are errors to fix. - Choose the Right Card Type
Start with secured credit cards or cards from NBFCs and fintech lenders who accept applicants with low scores. - Maintain Stable Income Proof
Banks look for stable income sources. Submit payslips, bank statements, or income tax returns to prove your repayment capacity. - Apply with a Co-Applicant or Guarantor
If possible, apply jointly with someone who has a good credit profile. - Avoid Multiple Applications at Once
Each credit inquiry can reduce your score. Apply to only one or two cards to increase your chances. - Use Referral Programs or Existing Bank Relationships
If you already have an account or loan with a bank, use that relationship to apply for a card. - Keep Your Credit Utilization Low
If you have other credit lines, keep usage below 30%. High utilization signals risk.
How to Improve Your CIBIL Score Using a Credit Card
Having a credit card responsibly can help you improve your score:
- Pay bills on time: Timely payments have the biggest positive impact on your credit score.
- Maintain low credit utilization: Use less than 30% of your available credit limit.
- Avoid defaulting or missing payments: Even one missed payment can reduce your score significantly.
- Check your credit report regularly: Detect and dispute errors early.
- Use the credit card occasionally: Don’t keep your card dormant; use it for small purchases and pay off promptly.
Common FAQs About Credit Cards and Low CIBIL Score
Q1: Can I get a credit card with a CIBIL score below 600?
Yes, secured credit cards and some NBFC/fintech cards allow applicants with scores below 600.
Q2: How long does it take to improve credit score?
With responsible usage, your score can improve significantly in 6-12 months.
Q3: What documents are needed for secured credit cards?
Identity proof, address proof, income proof, and fixed deposit receipt.
Q4: Are prepaid cards a good option?
Prepaid cards help manage expenses but do not improve your credit score.
Conclusion
A low CIBIL score does not mean you are permanently barred from getting a credit card. By understanding your options and applying strategic steps — such as opting for secured cards, maintaining good repayment habits, and using credit wisely — you can gain access to credit cards and improve your credit profile over time.
Patience, discipline, and financial literacy are key to rebuilding your credit score and eventually qualifying for premium credit cards with better benefits.