CRIF Vs CIBIL: Explore the Major Difference

Credit score plays an important role when applying for a loan. These scores are determined by credit bureaus and help lenders assess the likelihood of loan repayment. The two major credit bureaus in India are CRIF and CIBIL.
Understanding the difference between CRIF and CIBIL is crucial for individuals looking to apply for loan or improve their creditworthiness. This blog aims to shed light on the differences between these two credit score providers and help readers understand the implications of each.

What is CRIF?

CRIF stands for the Centre for Research in International Finance and is one of India’s major credit bureaus. It was previously known as High Mark Credit Information Services Private Limited.
CRIF provides services in the commercial and microfinance sectors. It maintains and keeps track of credit activities like loans and credit card transactions for individuals and companies. This information is valuable for lenders when they consider granting loans to both parties.
This credit bureau also specialises in risk management solutions and provides software and consulting services to lenders to manage risks associated with lending. Additionally, CRIF provides data collection, analysis, and decision-making support to offer comprehensive solutions that assist in determining credit scores effectively.

What is CIBIL?

CIBIL, which stands for Credit Information Bureau (India) Limited, is the most popular and widely used credit information company in India. It provides credit scores and reports based on an individual's credit history.
CIBIL gathers data from various credit institutions like banks and NBFCs, including details about credit history, repayment behaviour, and outstanding loan amounts. This information is used to generate credit reports and scores, which help lenders assess the creditworthiness of borrowers and make informed lending decisions.

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Key Difference Between CRIF and CIBIL

The major difference between CRIF and CIBIL is mentioned below:

Which Holds More Weightage – CRIF or CIBIL?

While there are several discussions on the CRIF score vs CIBIL score, you should know that both are licensed by the RBI, so both scores hold significance.
The importance of each score depends on the financial institution to which you have applied for a loan. Lenders may prefer reports from either CIBIL or CRIF for assessing a borrower’s creditworthiness. 

Steps to Check CIBIL Score from Poonawalla Fincorp Website 

The following steps should be followed to check your CIBIL score from the Poonawalla Fincorp website:

• Step 1: Click on ‘Free CIBIL Score’ button.
• Step 2: Enter relevant fields like your name, PAN number, mobile number, date of birth, and address.
• Step 3: Enter the OTP received on your mobile number.
• Step 4: Lastly, click on ‘Submit’ to check your score.

ALSO READ :- CRIF Report - Meaning, Why it is Required, and Importance

How to Check Your CRIF Score?

To determine your CRIF score, you can visit the official CRIF High Mark website or the websites of financial institutions that use this score to determine your creditworthiness.

• Step 1: Visit the official website of CRIF High Mark.
• Step 2: Click on ‘Get Your Score Now’ button present on the home page. 
• Step 3: Enter required details such as your name, ID type, ID value followed by your mobile number and email ID
• Step 4: Once done, click on ‘Get My Credit Score’ button. 

To Conclude

Understanding the differences between CRIF and CIBIL is crucial for individuals seeking to manage their creditworthiness effectively. Both bureaus play a significant role in assessing creditworthiness, and individuals should strive to maintain a good credit standing with both. Check your Free CIBIL Score today You can apply for Personal Loan, Pre-owned Card loan, Home Renovation loan, Business Loan and much more at Poonawalla Fincorp. 

Frequently Asked Questions About CRIF Score

1.    How accurate is the CRIF score?
The accuracy of the CRIF score relies on the accuracy of the information given to the credit bureau.

2.    What is the purpose of CRIF?
CRIF’s purpose is to offer credit information and risk management solutions to lenders and businesses. They collect and analyse credit data, including credit history, repayment behaviour, and outstanding debts of individuals and companies.

3.    Which is better CRIF or CIBIL?
CRIF and CIBIL are both credit information companies that offer credit reports and scores to lenders. Deciding which you should consider depends on the specific lender or financial institution you are working with.

4.    Is the CRIF score equal to the CIBIL score?
No, CRIF and CIBIL are separate companies that calculate credit scores in their unique ways. Both credit bureaus have a credit score range of 300 to 900, and the factors used to determine credit scores remain similar.

5.    Can a low credit score from CRIF or CIBIL impact loan approvals?
Yes, a low credit score from either CRIF or CIBIL can impact loan approvals as lenders consider credit scores as an indicator of creditworthiness.

6.    How long does it take to improve a credit score?
Improving a credit score takes time and consistent effort. It depends on several factors such as payment history, credit utilisation, and length of credit history. It may take several months to a year or more to see significant improvements.

7.    Why do Credit Scores Differ across Credit Bureaus?
Different credit bureaus use different algorithms and datasets to calculate credit     scores. These variations occur due to disparities in the information collected, scoring models, weightage assigned to different credit factors, and other proprietary factors.