How Much Credit Score Is Required For Credit Card Approval. (Photo: Canva)
If you are planning to apply for a credit card or take a loan in 2026, knowing your credit score is crucial. Your credit score reflects your creditworthiness and significantly impacts the approval and terms of loans or credit cards.
For credit card approval, a score of 750 or above is considered excellent, increasing your chances of approval and providing better terms. Scores between 700-750 often still get approvals, while scores above 650 may qualify for basic or secured credit cards. However, approvals become challenging for scores below 700, as lenders also assess income, debt levels, and credit history.
Obtaining your credit report from bureaus like CIBIL or CRIF High Mark at least once a year helps you spot errors and track your credit health. Each bureau offers a free annual credit report.
Every new loan or credit card application triggers a hard inquiry, which can temporarily reduce your score. Apply only when necessary to maintain a stable credit score.
Payment history is a major factor affecting your score. Always pay your credit card bills, loan EMIs, and other dues on time to maintain a strong credit profile.
A mix of secured loans (like home or auto loans) and unsecured loans (credit cards, personal loans) positively impacts your credit score, reflecting responsible financial management.
Overdue amounts, penalties, or fees can radically damage your score. Paying off any outstanding dues immediately is critical to improving creditworthiness.
Your credit utilisation ratio should ideally stay below 30%. For instance, if your credit card limit is ₹1,00,000, try to keep the balance under ₹30,000 to boost your score.
The length of your credit history matters. Avoid closing old accounts as they contribute to a longer credit history, which can strengthen your credit score.
Your credit score plays a pivotal role in credit card approvals in 2026. By monitoring your score, managing payments responsibly, and following these 7 steps, you can improve your credit profile and increase your chances of approval for premium credit cards.
ALSO READ: ‘Clean Air Is a Right, Not a Luxury’: ZONAIR3D Unveils India Expansion Plans
Sofia Babu Chacko is a journalist with over five years of experience reporting on Indian politics, crime, human rights, gender issues, and stories about marginalized communities. She believes journalism plays a crucial role in amplifying unheard voices and bringing attention to issues that truly matter. Sofia has contributed articles to The New Indian Express, Youth Ki Awaaz, and Maktoob Media. She is also a recipient of the 2025 Laadli Media Awards for gender sensitivity. Beyond the newsroom, she is a music enthusiast who enjoys singing. Connect with Sofia on X: https://x.com/SBCism
A woman employee died after a lift malfunction at Nashik Government Medical College, captured on…
Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi thanked Vladimir Putin for Russia’s support during tensions with the US,…
WNBA Star Sophie Cunningham Goes Viral in Bikini Photos, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Pics Trending
Sophie Cunningham, Indiana Fever star, has gone viral after her Sports Illustrated Swimsuit bikini photos…
