CIBIL Score: Does a failed credit card payment lower your CIBIL score? What do the rules say?
- byShikha Srivastava
- 06 Feb, 2026
The importance of a credit score becomes clear when you apply for a loan. A credit score assesses your ability to repay borrowed money. Credit scores are based on your credit history, credit card payments, and other factors. This raises the question: what happens to your CIBIL score or credit score if you miss a credit payment due to forgetfulness or insufficient funds?

Will your CIBIL score decrease?
If you miss a credit payment due to forgetfulness or insufficient funds, your CIBIL score may decrease. A lower credit score can make it difficult to get a loan. You may also face several other consequences, such as:
Late payment fees are charged for missed credit card payments, and these fees increase daily.
Additionally, the interest on your credit card is calculated on your outstanding balance (principal amount, interest, and late fees). This further increases your payment amount.
Even a one-day or one-week delay in credit card payment can lead to increased interest charges.
Furthermore, if you only pay the minimum amount instead of the full balance, the accumulating interest can become a significant burden over time.
How to improve your CIBIL score?
Pay loans and credit card bills on time: If you have taken any type of loan or are a credit card user, ensure that you pay your EMIs on time. Also, pay your credit card bills before the due date.
If you don't pay your credit card bills on time, you will incur charges. Also, avoid using your entire credit card limit. It's advisable to use only about 30% of your credit limit.
Avoid becoming a defaulter: If you have taken a joint loan with a family member, friend, or anyone else, you should avoid becoming a defaulter. Failure to repay the loan on time can lead to significant financial losses and negatively impact your credit score. The balance between secured and unsecured loans: Secured loans include car and home loans, while unsecured loans include personal loans and credit cards. Maintaining a balance between these two types of loans is crucial, as it also impacts your CIBIL score or credit score. Therefore, it's essential to consider these factors when taking out a loan.
PC Social Media



