How to Increase CIBIL Score from 650 to 750

How to Increase Your CIBIL Score from 650 to 750

Last updated: April 2026

Did you know that a CIBIL score of 750 or above is often the difference between getting approved for that dream home loan or facing rejection? As of April 2026, with the Indian economy evolving rapidly, maintaining a high credit score is more crucial than ever. A CIBIL score of 650 is considered fair, but pushing it up to 750 can transform your financial opportunities. This article will guide you through the actionable steps to boost your score, the best credit products available, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Quick Answer: To increase your CIBIL score from 650 to 750, focus on timely bill payments, reducing outstanding debts, and maintaining a low credit utilization ratio. Regularly check your credit report for errors and avoid applying for multiple credit products simultaneously.

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At a Glance

Here's a quick comparison of some of the top-rated credit cards that can help you improve your credit score by using them responsibly:

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How to Choose the Right Credit Product

Choosing the right credit card or loan product is crucial to enhancing your credit score. Here's how you can make an informed decision:

Understand Your Spending Habits

Before selecting a credit product, evaluate your spending patterns. Are you a frequent traveler, or do you spend more on daily shopping? For instance, the SimplySAVE SBI Card is ideal for everyday purchases, helping you manage expenses while building credit.

Consider the Fees

Look at the annual fees associated with the card. For instance, premium cards like the SBI Card ELITE come with higher fees but offer extensive rewards. Ensure these fees align with the benefits you will utilize.

Evaluate the Rewards and Benefits

Different cards offer varied rewards—some are geared towards travel, others towards shopping. The IRCTC SBI Platinum Card is perfect for those who travel frequently by train, offering co-branded benefits.

Expert Tip: Choose a card that aligns with your lifestyle and offers rewards you will actually use. This not only optimizes benefits but also encourages responsible usage, which is critical for improving your credit score.

Check the Eligibility Criteria

Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the card you choose. Applying for a card for which you are ineligible could result in a hard inquiry, which might negatively impact your score.

Assess Customer Service

Good customer service can be crucial, especially if you encounter issues with your card. Research customer reviews and ratings to ensure you choose a provider known for excellent service.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Increasing Your CIBIL Score

Here's a structured approach to elevate your CIBIL score from 650 to 750:

1. Pay Your Bills on Time

   Timely payments account for 35% of your credit score. Set up automatic payments or reminders to ensure you never miss a due date.

2. Reduce Outstanding Debt

   Aim to pay off existing debts, focusing on high-interest debts first. This will not only improve your credit utilization ratio but also reduce financial stress.

3. Maintain a Low Credit Utilization Ratio

   Keep your credit utilization below 30%. If your total credit limit is ₹1L, aim to use less than ₹30,000 at any given time.

4. Regularly Check Your Credit Report

   Access your credit report at least once a year to check for errors. Dispute any inaccuracies to prevent them from dragging down your score.

5. Limit Hard Inquiries

   Avoid applying for multiple credit products in a short span. Each application results in a hard inquiry, which can lower your score.

6. Diversify Your Credit Mix

   Having a mix of credit products, such as credit cards and loans, can positively impact your score. However, ensure you can manage them responsibly.

Warning: Avoid closing old credit accounts, as this can shorten your credit history, negatively affecting your score.

7. Use Credit Wisely

   Make small, manageable purchases and pay them off immediately to demonstrate responsible credit behavior.

8. Stay Informed

   Keep up with changes in financial products and credit scoring models. This knowledge can help you make informed financial decisions.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls that can hinder your progress in improving your CIBIL score:

• Missing Payments: Even a single missed payment can significantly impact your score.
• High Credit Utilization: Regularly maxing out your credit limit can be detrimental.
• Ignoring Credit Report Errors: Failing to correct inaccuracies can cause undue harm.
• Applying for Multiple Credit Lines Simultaneously: This can lead to multiple hard inquiries, bringing down your score.
• Closing Old Accounts: This reduces your credit history length, which can negatively affect your score.

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BPCL SBI Card vs. IRCTC SBI Platinum Card

BPCL SBI Card

• Best For: Fuel Purchases
• Annual Fee: ₹499
• Pros: Offers great savings on fuel transactions.

IRCTC SBI Platinum Card

• Best For: Travel
• Annual Fee: ₹500
• Pros: Ideal for frequent train travelers with added travel benefits.

When deciding between the two, consider your primary spending category. If you frequently purchase fuel, the BPCL SBI Card is a better fit. However, if train travel is a significant part of your lifestyle, the IRCTC SBI Platinum Card offers more tailored benefits.

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Who Should Take Action and Who Shouldn't

Who Should

• Those with a Score Below 750: If your score is below 750, improving it can unlock better interest rates and credit options.
• Frequent Credit Users: Regular users can benefit from understanding how to optimize their credit usage for score improvement.

Who Shouldn't

• Those with Limited Credit Needs: If you rarely use credit products, focusing on score improvement might not be a priority.
• Individuals with a Score Above 800: If your score is already excellent, aggressive strategies for improvement may not be necessary.

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Tax Implications

While improving your CIBIL score doesn't directly impact taxes, managing your credit effectively can lead to better financial health, allowing for strategic investments and savings that can influence your tax situation. For instance, using credit wisely can free up cash for tax-saving investments.

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Our Editorial Take

According to financial experts, increasing your CIBIL score is not just about paying off debt but also about maintaining a healthy mix of credit and understanding the factors that influence your score. Experts recommend regular monitoring of your credit report and adopting a disciplined financial lifestyle.

Expert Tip: "Your credit score is a reflection of your financial habits. Cultivating responsible credit usage and staying informed about your credit status are key to achieving a high score." - Ramesh Gupta, Financial Analyst

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The Bottom Line

Improving your CIBIL score from 650 to 750 is a strategic process that requires discipline and informed financial decisions. By choosing the right credit products, maintaining low credit utilization, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can enhance your creditworthiness significantly. This not only opens doors to better credit products but also positions you for financial success in the long term.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good CIBIL score in India?

A CIBIL score of 750 or above is considered good and can help you secure loans and credit cards at favorable terms.

How long does it take to improve a CIBIL score?

Improving a CIBIL score can take several months to over a year, depending on your financial habits and the strategies you implement.

Can checking my CIBIL score frequently lower it?

No, checking your own CIBIL score is considered a soft inquiry and does not affect your score.

Is it possible to improve my score without a credit card?

Yes, you can improve your score by managing other forms of credit responsibly, like loans.

How often should I check my credit report?

It's advisable to check your credit report at least once a year to ensure accuracy and monitor your score.

What should I do if I find an error in my credit report?

Immediately dispute the error with the credit bureau to have it corrected, as inaccuracies can negatively impact your score.

Does closing a credit card affect my score?

Yes, closing a credit card can affect your credit utilization ratio and the length of your credit history, potentially lowering your score.

How does credit utilization affect my score?

Credit utilization is the ratio of your credit card balances to your credit limits. A lower ratio is better for your score.

Are there any government programs to help improve credit scores?

While there are no direct government programs, financial literacy initiatives can provide guidance on maintaining a healthy credit score.

Can I pay someone to improve my CIBIL score?

While some services offer to improve your score for a fee, it's best to adopt responsible financial habits for a genuine and sustainable increase.

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Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. InvestingPro.in is not a SEBI-registered investment advisor. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. Data sourced from official bank/AMC websites and AMFI, verified as of April 2026.