How to Get a Credit Card with a Poor CIBIL Score?

Maintaining a healthy CIBIL score is crucial for your financial credibility, especially when applying for loans or credit cards. However, life doesn’t always go as planned—missed EMIs, delayed payments, or financial crises can impact your credit score. If you have a poor credit history, you might think getting a credit card is out of reach. But the good news is that it’s still possible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get a credit card for low CIBIL score and improve your financial standing.

What Is a CIBIL Score and Why Does It Matter?

The CIBIL score is a three-digit numeric summary of your credit history, ranging from 300 to 900. Issued by TransUnion CIBIL, one of India’s leading credit information companies, this score helps lenders evaluate your creditworthiness.

• 750-900: Excellent
• 700-749: Good
• 650-699: Fair
• 300-649: Poor

A low score usually indicates issues like missed repayments or high credit utilization, making it harder to get unsecured loans or credit cards. Now you can improve your cibil score by using credit card for low cibil score.

Challenges of Getting a Credit Card with a Low CIBIL Score

When your credit score is poor:

• Most banks view you as a high-risk borrower.
• You may face rejection when applying for unsecured credit cards.
• You might be offered cards with lower limits and higher interest rates.
  

Despite these challenges, some options can help you rebuild your credit score while giving you access to credit.

Types of Credit Cards Available for Low CIBIL Score

Here are some viable options if you are looking for a credit card for low CIBIL score:

1. Secured Credit Cards

These cards are issued against a fixed deposit (FD) and are ideal for individuals with low or no credit scores. The FD acts as collateral, minimizing the bank’s risk.

Features:

• Credit limit usually ranges from 80% to 90% of the FD amount.
• Interest-free period and reward points similar to regular credit cards.
• Easy approval with minimal documentation.

2. Add-on Credit Cards

These are supplementary cards issued under a primary cardholder’s account. If a family member with a good credit history holds a card, they can request an add-on card for you.

Benefits:

• No independent credit check required.
• Ideal for students or homemakers with low or no CIBIL score.
• Helps you build a credit history when used responsibly.

3. Prepaid or Virtual Credit Cards

Although not actual credit cards, prepaid cards function similarly. You load funds in advance and use them like a debit card.

Pros:

• No credit check required.
• Controlled spending and budgeting.
• Good starting point for those new to credit.

4. Cards for Low-Income Individuals or First-Time Users

Some banks offer credit cards designed for people with low income or no credit history, and these may also work for those with a poor CIBIL score.

How to Increase Your Chances of Approval?

While looking for a credit card for low CIBIL score, follow these steps to improve your approval odds:

1. Apply for a Secured Card First

This is your best bet to start rebuilding your score. Make an FD and apply for a card with the issuing bank. Use the card responsibly to demonstrate credit discipline.

2. Check Your Credit Report

Before applying, download your free CIBIL report from the official website. Look for errors or outdated information that may be dragging your score down. You can raise a dispute for any inaccuracies.

3. Apply with Your Existing Bank

If you have a savings or salary account, approach your bank first. A long-standing relationship may increase your chances of getting a credit card even with a lower score.

4. Don’t Apply for Multiple Cards at Once

Each credit card application generates a hard inquiry, which can lower your score further. Apply cautiously and only after checking the eligibility criteria.

Tips to Rebuild Your CIBIL Score

Once you’ve secured a credit card—even if it’s a basic or secured one—follow these strategies to improve your score over time:

1. Pay Your Bills on Time

Even one missed payment can dent your credit score. Set up auto-debit instructions or reminders to avoid delays.

2. Keep Credit Utilization Low

Try not to use more than 30–40% of your credit limit. High utilization suggests poor credit management.

3. Avoid Closing Old Accounts

Length of credit history matters. Keep your oldest accounts open, especially if they have a good repayment record.

4. Limit New Credit Applications

Too many inquiries can signal financial distress. Apply for new credit only when necessary.

5. Check Your Credit Report Regularly

Keep an eye on your score and report to track progress and spot issues early.

FAQs on Credit Card for Low CIBIL Score

Q1: Can I get a credit card with a CIBIL score below 600?
Yes, you can apply for a secured credit card backed by a fixed deposit. These cards are often approved without strict credit score checks.

Q2: Will using a secured credit card improve my credit score?
Yes, if you make timely payments and keep utilization low, your score will gradually improve.

Q3: Is it safe to use credit cards with poor credit history?
Yes, as long as you spend within limits and pay on time, it’s a great way to rebuild credit.

Q4: Do add-on cards help improve credit scores?
Not directly, as the credit behavior is recorded under the primary cardholder’s name, but they can be useful for learning credit discipline.

Conclusion

Getting a credit card for low CIBIL score is not only possible but can also be the first step toward financial recovery. Start with secured or low-risk cards, use them wisely, and pay your dues on time. Over time, your responsible behavior will reflect positively on your credit profile, opening doors to better financial opportunities.

Building a healthy credit history takes time and patience, but the effort pays off. A credit card is not just a spending tool—when used smartly, it’s a powerful instrument to rebuild your financial credibility.