Introduction: CIBIL Score & Credit Card Approval

Obtaining a credit card with a poor CIBIL score in India was once considered nearly impossible. However, financial inclusion trends and evolving banking norms have opened up solutions for individuals with low credit scores. Whether your score suffered due to defaults, late payments, or you simply lack a credit history, this comprehensive guide will help you understand the process, right products, and expert tips for success.

• CIBIL score: India's most popular credit rating, calculated by TransUnion CIBIL for banks and lenders.
• Poor score definition: Typically, below 650 is considered poor, and banks set eligibility cutoffs at 650–750 for standard cards.
• Impact: Low scores lead to rejection of card or loan applications, higher interest rates, and reduced borrowing capacity.

Why Do Banks Reject Low CIBIL Score Applicants?

Credit cards offer unsecured borrowing, which means banks bear full risk of repayment. This is why most issuers prefer applicants with scores above 750 and consistent repayment history. For poor scores, banks are cautious due to:

• Previous defaults or missed payments
• High outstanding debts
• Lack of income stability
• Multiple hard inquiries or recent rejections

Each rejection can lower your credit score further, making it essential to apply strategically rather than submit applications blindly.

Best Credit Card Options for Poor CIBIL Score (2025)

The good news: banks now offer specialized products, often called “credit builder” or “secured credit cards,” which are possible for low-score customers.

1. Secured Credit Cards: Backed by a fixed deposit as collateral. Examples: SBI SimplySAVE Secured Card, HDFC Bank Secured Credit Card, ICICI Bank Coral Credit Card against FD. These cards are easy to get approved and help you rebuild your score when used responsibly.
2. Credit Card Against Salary Account: Banks often extend credit card offers to salary account holders even if their CIBIL score is poor, provided income meets minimum requirements.
3. Add-On or Supplementary Cards: Some banks allow you to get an add-on card under a family member’s account with good history.
4. High-Interest Unsecured Cards: Select issuers provide cards for bad credit customers but with higher fees and strict spending limits.
5. Credit Builder Programs: Some banks and fintechs provide “credit builder” cards with reporting and low-limit to help improve future eligibility

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Credit Card with Poor CIBIL Score

1. Check Your Current CIBIL Score: Before applying, visit CIBIL’s official website or use free credit score checkers. Review your credit report for errors and get a clear status.
   • Use CreditPlanner’s Free CIBIL Score Checker
2. Research Suitable Cards: Target secured or builder cards designed for low-score applicants. Avoid applying for multiple cards at once, as every hard inquiry further decreases your score.
3. Prepare Documentation: Standard documents include ID (Aadhaar, PAN), address proof, salary slips (if employed), and FD receipt (if secured card).
4. Create Fixed Deposit (for Secured Cards): Open an FD with your chosen bank. Card limit is usually 75–85% of FD value.
5. Apply Online or In Branch: Use online portals (eg. SBI Card Apply, ICICI eApply) or visit your primary bank branch for guidance.
6. Monitor Application Status: Track progress via SMS/email updates from your bank. If rejected, wait at least 60 days before reapplying elsewhere.

Secured vs. Unsecured Credit Cards: Which Is Right For You?

Pro Tips: Boost Your Approval Chances & Fix CIBIL Score

• Always prefer secured cards as a stepping stone—they guarantee approval and safe credit building.
• Keep your credit utilization below 30% of provided limit.
• Pay all outstanding bills on time, even minor loans or EMIs.
• Avoid multiple hard credit inquiries within a year.
• Check your credit report for discrepancies and dispute errors early.
• Leverage add-on cards if possible to build positive history.
• Maintain strong relationships with your primary bank—they may preapprove credit builder cards.
• Review card terms carefully for hidden fees and charges.

Expertise from CreditPlanner: If your applications have been rejected, wait and focus on improving your score for a better chance next cycle.

Top Secured Credit Card Options in India (Low CIBIL Score Approved)

• SBI SimplySAVE Secured Card [SBI FD Required] – Good for first-time applicants with low score.
• ICICI Bank Coral Credit Card against FD – Easy approval, competitive rewards.
• HDFC Bank Secured Credit Card – Available against minimum FD of ₹10,000.
• Axis Bank Insta Easy Card – Instant approval, safe for bad credit, against FD.
• Kotak Mahindra Aqua Gold Credit Card – Low entry barrier, safe card for poor CIBIL score.

Common Mistakes When Applying with Low CIBIL Score

• Applying for standard credit cards without eligibility—leads to rejection and further drop in score.
• Ignoring fixed deposit requirement for secured card approval.
• Missing small payments or existing EMIs while rebuilding credit.
• Falling for high-fee, predatory card offers claiming “no eligibility required”.
• Not reading card terms, resulting in surprise penalties or charges.

FAQs: Get Answers to All Your Doubts

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Conclusion: Secure Your Future, Even with Poor CIBIL

In 2025, applying for a credit card with a poor CIBIL score is absolutely possible—and often, the first step to rebuilding your financial life. Start with secured cards and use them responsibly for six months to a year. Avoid mistakes, stay informed, and let CreditPlanner.in guide you through every stage of your credit-building journey.