A CIBIL score of 600 can feel like a roadblock - especially when you are applying for a loan or trying to get a credit card. It is easy to feel discouraged or unsure of what to do next. But here’s the good news: your credit score isn’t set in stone. It is a reflection of your past behaviour, not a prediction of your future. Improving your credit score from 600 to 750 may seem like a big leap, but with consistent effort and a few smart habits, it is completely achievable. Whether you are recovering from missed payments or just starting to understand how credit works, this blog will guide you towards a healthier financial future. Read on!
What is a Good CIBIL Score?

Before you begin your credit improvement journey, it is important to know what you are working towards:
• 300 – 549: Poor – High risk for lenders and may face
rejection.
• 550 – 649: Fair – some lenders may approve but not
ideal.
• 650 – 749: Good – Better chances for approval.
•
750 – 900: Excellent – Easy approvals, lower interest rates
Reason Why Your Score Might Be at 600
Many people assume a low score means financial irresponsibility –
but that’s not always true. Here are some common reasons why score
must be stuck at 600:
• Missed or delayed EMI or credit card
payments
• High credit card usage (above 30-40%)
• Too
many loan or credit card applications
• Errors in your credit
report that went unnoticed
• Settling a loan instead of paying
it completely
The good news? All these can be fixed and avoided moving forward.
7 Ways to Increase CIBIL Score from 600 to 750
Here’s a breakdown of simple but effective steps you can start taking today:
1. Make Timely Repayment
Late or missed payments are one of the biggest CIBIL score killers. Even one delay can have a lasting impact on your CIBIL score. If you have missed payments in the past, don’t panic. Start fresh. Regular on-time payments going forward will gradually offset the negative history. To avoid missed payments in the future, set up auto-debit, use reminder apps, and try paying at least the minimum amount due.
2. Reduce Credit Utilisation Ratio Low
If you are using most of your credit limit every month, lenders see you as highly-dependent on credit and consider you as a risky borrower, even if you are paying the total amount due. To avoid high credit utilisation, request a higher credit limit, split expenses across multiple cards (if needed), and keep usage under 30% of your total credit limit.
For example: If your credit card limit is ₹1,00,000, try not to exceed ₹30,000 in usage in a billing cycle.
3. Maintain a Healthy Credit Mix
Having only one type of credit like just credit cards or just personal loans may limit your CIBIL score growth. A diverse credit portfolio shows lenders you can handle different types of financial responsibilities efficiently. To have a healthy credit mix, aim for mix of secured and unsecured credit.
4. Avoid Multiple Loan Applications
Every time you apply for a loan or credit, it results in a hard inquiry on your credit report. Too many inquiries in a short period of time can affect your score. It is advisable to space out your application, check your eligibility before applying, and say no to tempting ‘pre-approved’ offers if you don’t need them.
5. Clear Outstanding Debts
If your credit report shows unpaid dues or overdue accounts, clearing them is one of the most impactful steps you can take to raise your CIBIL score. Outstanding debt, especially long pending EMIs or credit dues has a significant impact on your score. Even if the amount is not huge, the delay signals risk to lenders. Once settled, don’t forget to collect a ‘No Due Certificate’ as a proof from lender.
6. Keep Old Credit Accounts Active
The length of your credit history matters. Older accounts with a good track record help build trust with lenders. It is advisable to keep old credit accounts active and only close them when absolutely necessary. You can also use them occasionally and pay them off in full.
7. Monitor Your Credit Report Regularly
Errors, outdated information, or identity theft can bring your score down without you even realizing it. Regular checks help you catch and correct issues early. Check CIBIL score once every month or quarterly to ensure details are accurate and up-to-date. Raise a dispute with CIBIL if you find any discrepancies.
Mistakes to Avoid While Rebuilding Your Score
Here are the mistakes to avoid:
• Making only minimum
payments for an extended period
• Frequently maxing out your
credit cards
• Ignoring your credit report
• Falling for
‘credit repair’ scams or shortcuts
To Conclude
A low CIBIL score may feel like a financial roadblock, but it does not have to define your journey. With the right steps, a little discipline, and a clear plan you can improve your credit score from 600 to 700 and beyond. Your credit score is more than a number. It is about regaining control of your finances. To improve you CIBIL score set reminders, review your report, stick to smart credit usage, and stay patient. Remember, it is not a one-day thing. Check your CIBIL score for Free with Poonawalla Fincorp and take control of your finances today!
FAQs
1. How Long Does it Take to Improve CIBIL Score?
On average, it may take to 3 to 6 months of consistent effort to see your score rise from 600 to 750. Hower the timeline depends on your credit history, how severe the issues are, and he quickly you take the necessary actions like clearing dues, lowering credit usage, and paying bills on time.
2. Will settling a loan help increase my CIBIL score?
Settling the loan may close the loan account, but it usually lowers your score or keeps it from improving. That’s because a settled status tells future lenders that you did not pay in full.
3. Does closing a credit card help improve my score?
No. Closing an old or used credit card can reduce your total credit limit and credit history length – both of which can affect your score. It is better to keep old cards open and use them occasionally with full repayments
4. Is checking my credit report frequently bad for my score?
No. Checking you credit score creates a soft inquiry and has no negative impact on your score. Checking your credit score regularly helps you identify errors, track progress, and stay informed
About the Author
We take utmost care to provide information based on internal data and reliable sources. However, this article and associated web pages provide generic information for reference purposes only. Readers must make an informed decision by reviewing the products offered and the terms and conditions. Loan disbursal is at the sole discretion of Poonawalla Fincorp.
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