CIBIL Score Minus 1

A CIBIL score -1 means there is no retrievable data about their borrowing behavior. This could happen as there are several scenarios that could result in an individual having a CIBIL-1 score, indicating no available data about their borrowing behavior. 

• Firstly, if there is no credit history or record in the borrower's name, this would result in a CIBIL-1 score. 
• Secondly, if the individual has not applied for a loan or credit card in the past 2 years, this could also lead to a CIBIL-1 score. 
• Finally, if the individual does not have any direct credit exposure in their name, such as with add-on cards, this can result in a CIBIL-1 score as well.

While having a -1 CIBIL score is not a negative situation, it can make it difficult to obtain loans or credit cards, and some lenders may reject applications based solely on the score. Therefore, it is important to establish a credit history and maintain good credit behavior to avoid a CIBIL-1 score. Currently, there are four credit rating agencies in India, namely TransUnion CIBIL, Experian, CRIF High Mark and Equifax. 

Additional Read : CIBIL Full Form

If an individual's credit account history is less than 6 months, their credit score will show as Zero (0) because the credit reporting agency does not have enough information to assign them a credit score. Although having a zero CIBIL score is not necessarily negative, it may limit the borrower's ability to get the best loan and credit card offers with lower interest rates compared to those with a good credit score history.

This is because the lenders cannot accurately assess the borrower's financial credibility. Nonetheless, individuals with zero credit scores can still apply for loans and credit cards from banks or NBFCs. So, you see having a 0 CIBIL score is not necessarily a bad thing. It just directs banks to be more cautious while lending out any amount to you.

Additional Read : CIBIL Score Check Free Online By PAN Number

CIBIL score 0 (NA - History not Available) means that an individual's credit history is available for less than 6 months, and the credit reporting agency cannot make any decision on their credit account due to a lack of information.

On the other hand, CIBIL score -1 (NH - No History) indicates that the individual does not have any credit account, which means they have not taken any loans or credit till date to develop their credit profile. It takes a minimum of 6 months of credit history for cibil score calculation.

Moreover, if there is no credit or repayment activity within 2 years in an individual's credit account, their CIBIL Score will also show as -1.

What does a CIBIL score in the range of 1-5 denote?

How do Banks assess an applicant’s repayment capability if they have a CIBIL score of -1 or 0?

Here are the points on how banks assess an applicant's repayment capability if they do not have a credit score:

• Banks use surrogate and ad-hoc parameters to evaluate the likelihood of total loan repayment by new borrowers.
• Savings account balance is a factor that can help the lender assess the borrower's financial management and saving capabilities/tendencies.
• Zero cheque bounces are considered a plus, as disciplined honoring of cheques reflects the borrower's financial discipline.
• Beginning with secured or small loans, such as entry-level secured credit cards or student credit cards, can make it easier for first-time borrowers to get a loan and build their credit score gradually.
• Banks consider the credit history of people with similar demographics or from similar geographical regions to deduce the likely creditworthiness of the applicant.
• The employment situation of the borrower is also considered, as the borrower's job acts as a silent guarantor for the loan amount.
• The type of residence is also a factor, with borrowers who own a house or have been a tenant for a long time scoring more than those who live in a rented apartment or for a shorter period of time.   
  Banks tend to start with a low credit limit for first-time borrowers, with the same increasing gradually as the borrower's repayment track record grows.

Additional Read : Check Free Credit Score

Here are the impacts of having a CIBIL score -1:

1. Limited access to credit: With a CIBIL score of -1, lenders may consider you as a high-risk borrower and may be less likely to approve your credit application. This could make it difficult for you to get a loan or credit card.
2. Higher interest rates: If you manage to get approved for credit with a CIBIL score of -1, you may have to pay a higher interest rate compared to someone with a good credit score. This is because lenders may see you as a higher risk and may charge a higher interest rate to compensate for that risk.
3. Limited credit options: With a CIBIL score of -1, you may only be eligible for certain types of credit products. For example, you may only be able to get a secured credit card or a loan with a co-signer.
4. Difficulty getting approved for rental applications: Landlords may also check your credit score when you apply for a rental property. A low score could make it difficult for you to get approved for a rental application, or you may be required to pay a higher security deposit.

Additional Read : CIBIL Dispute

Improving the CIBIL Score from -1 can be challenging, but there are steps that can be taken to build a credit profile and improve the score:

1. Open a savings account: Having a savings account with a consistent balance can help in building a financial profile.
2. Apply for a secured credit card: A secured credit card is a type of credit card where the borrower has to keep a certain amount of money as security(normally in the form of FD). It is an effective tool for building credit.
3. Take a secured loan: Taking a secured loan and paying the EMIs on time can help in building credit.
4. Become an authorized user: Becoming an authorized user on a friend or family member’s credit card can help in building credit.
5. Pay all bills on time: Paying bills, such as rent and utilities, on time can help in building credit.
6. Avoid applying for multiple credit cards or loans: Applying for multiple credit cards or loans at once can negatively impact the credit score.

Additional Read : CIBIL Score Check