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How can I improve my credit score after settling late payments 20 years ago?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9317 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 09, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Vimal Question by Vimal on Nov 09, 2024Hindi
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During younh age 3 credit carf payment were delayed and settled bu bank. My cibil score now is 765 this is due to past faults 20yrs back. How can i rectify iy?

Ans: Since your CIBIL score is now a strong 765, it reflects a solid recovery despite past issues. However, to further improve it, focus on maintaining a perfect repayment history for all current credit. Avoid closing old accounts with good history, as they contribute positively. Regularly monitor your CIBIL report to ensure no errors. Over time, consistent and responsible credit behavior will enhance your score further.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9317 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 30, 2024

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Hi I recently encountered a challenging period during the COVID pandemic. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, I faced a period of unemployment that led me to utilize my credit card extensively. Regrettably, I couldn't manage timely repayments, resulting in my accounts being defaulted upon. However, after three years, I successfully settled all outstanding dues on my credit cards and a personal loan from Bajaj Finance. Despite resolving these debts, I am now confronted with the repercussions on my CIBIL score, which has significantly declined. I am eager to take proactive measures to rehabilitate and improve my creditworthiness. I recognize the importance of a healthy credit score for future financial endeavors. Could you kindly offer guidance or strategies on how I can begin the process of rebuilding my CIBIL score? I'm open to any advice, tips, or specific steps that could help me steadily enhance my creditworthiness over time. Your expertise in this matter would be immensely appreciated and valued.
Ans: I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you faced during the pandemic, but I'm glad to hear that you've taken steps to address your financial situation. Rebuilding your credit score after experiencing defaults can take time, but it's certainly achievable with patience and dedication. Here are some steps you can take to begin the process:

Check Your Credit Report: Start by obtaining a copy of your credit report from all major credit bureaus (CIBIL, Equifax, Experian). Review the report carefully to understand the factors contributing to your low score and identify any errors or discrepancies that need to be corrected.
Pay Bills on Time: Moving forward, ensure that you pay all your bills, including credit card bills, loans, and utility bills, on time. Timely payments are one of the most crucial factors in rebuilding your credit score.
Reduce Credit Card Balances: Aim to keep your credit card balances low relative to your credit limit. High credit utilization can negatively impact your credit score, so focus on paying down your credit card balances as much as possible.
Limit New Credit Applications: Avoid applying for multiple new credit cards or loans within a short period as it can indicate financial distress to lenders. Instead, focus on managing your existing credit responsibly.
Diversify Your Credit Portfolio: Having a mix of credit accounts, such as credit cards, installment loans, and a mortgage, can positively impact your credit score. If feasible, consider diversifying your credit portfolio over time.
Use Secured Credit Cards: If you're struggling to qualify for traditional credit cards, consider applying for a secured credit card. Secured cards require a security deposit, making them easier to obtain for individuals with damaged credit.
Monitor Your Progress: Regularly monitor your credit score and credit report to track your progress. Many credit monitoring services offer free credit score tracking, making it easier to stay updated on your credit health.
Remember, rebuilding your credit score is a gradual process that requires consistency and responsible financial behavior. By following these steps and demonstrating responsible credit management over time, you can steadily improve your creditworthiness and regain financial stability. If you need further assistance, consider consulting with a financial advisor or credit counselor for personalized guidance.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9317 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 21, 2024

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Hi I have taken credit card year before and ihave not clear the outstanding amount for 3years now it's effectedto my cibil score and if I clear the outstanding amount my cibil will increase or not . If I need to close with out effect to my cibil score what need to do .
Ans: You have an outstanding credit card debt that hasn't been cleared for three years. This has negatively impacted your CIBIL score, and you are concerned about how clearing the debt might affect your score.

Impact of Clearing the Outstanding Amount on CIBIL Score
Positive Impact: Clearing the outstanding amount will positively impact your CIBIL score over time. Your credit score improves when you settle debts, demonstrating responsible financial behavior to lenders.

Time Frame for Improvement: While clearing the debt will help, it may take a few months for your CIBIL score to reflect the improvement. Consistent, timely payments in the future will further boost your score.

Steps to Close the Credit Card Without Further Impact on CIBIL Score
Negotiate a Settlement: Contact the bank and negotiate a settlement for a lower amount. Ensure that the settlement is reported as "Paid in Full" rather than "Settled," as "Settled" can negatively affect your CIBIL score.

Full Payment: If possible, pay the full outstanding amount. This will ensure the account is closed cleanly and positively influence your CIBIL score.

Obtain a No Dues Certificate: After clearing the outstanding amount, request a No Dues Certificate from the bank. This document serves as proof that your account is fully settled.

Check Your CIBIL Report: After settling the debt, regularly check your CIBIL report to ensure the payment is reflected correctly. If there are discrepancies, raise a dispute with CIBIL.

Maintaining and Improving Your CIBIL Score
Timely Payments: Make sure to pay all future credit card bills and loan EMIs on time. This is crucial for maintaining and improving your CIBIL score.

Limit Credit Utilization: Keep your credit card utilization below 30% of the credit limit. High utilization can negatively affect your score.

Diversify Credit: Having a mix of secured (like home loans) and unsecured credit (like credit cards) can positively impact your score.

Monitor Your Credit: Regularly monitor your CIBIL score and report. This will help you stay informed about your credit health and take corrective measures if necessary.

Final Insights
Clearing your outstanding credit card debt is the first step towards improving your CIBIL score. While it might take some time for your score to reflect this improvement, consistent and responsible financial behavior will ensure a positive impact. Negotiating a settlement or paying the full amount, obtaining a No Dues Certificate, and monitoring your CIBIL report are key steps to closing the credit card account without further negative impact.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9317 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 10, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 17, 2024Hindi
Money
I took loan and gave him rs.3 lacs. He didn't pay me back. Now, the loan came for settlement and I am clearing it month on month after speaking with the collection team. Current situation I am not able apply for any loan and even not able to purchase a mobile for myself in EMI. How should I get my cibil scores corrected and get eligible for loans
Ans: I'm sorry to hear about your situation. Let's look at how you can improve your CIBIL score and become eligible for loans again.

Understanding Your Current Situation
You’ve done a commendable job by managing the loan repayments diligently. Your awareness of your financial standing is the first step towards improvement.

Loan Given: Rs 3 lakhs
Repayment Issue: Affecting CIBIL score
Current Loan: Settling month on month
Financial Impact: Not eligible for new loans or EMIs
Analyzing the Impact on Your CIBIL Score
Your CIBIL score reflects your creditworthiness. Missed or delayed payments can negatively impact it. Let's assess the key areas affecting your score:

Loan Default
Defaulting on a loan severely impacts your CIBIL score. Lenders view this as a high-risk behavior.

Repayment History
Timely repayments are crucial for a healthy CIBIL score. Even one missed payment can lower your score significantly.

Credit Utilization
High credit utilization ratio can lower your score. It indicates that you are overly reliant on credit.

Steps to Improve Your CIBIL Score
Improving your CIBIL score requires a strategic approach and disciplined financial behavior. Here’s a detailed plan:

Regularize Loan Repayments
Continue clearing the outstanding loan amount. Speak with your lender to negotiate better repayment terms if needed.

Clear Outstanding Debts
If you have other outstanding debts, prioritize clearing them. Reducing your debt burden improves your credit score.

Timely Payments
Ensure timely payment of all EMIs and credit card bills. Set up reminders or automate payments to avoid missed deadlines.

Strategies to Rebuild Your Credit Score
Rebuilding your credit score will take time and consistent effort. Here’s how you can go about it:

Obtain Your CIBIL Report
Get a copy of your CIBIL report to understand your current score and the factors affecting it. Look for any discrepancies and get them corrected.

Avoid New Credit Applications
Refrain from applying for new credit cards or loans while rebuilding your score. Multiple inquiries can further lower your score.

Maintain Low Credit Utilization
Keep your credit card utilization below 30% of the limit. High utilization signals financial distress.

Use a Secured Credit Card
Consider using a secured credit card. It’s backed by a fixed deposit and helps rebuild credit without the risk of overspending.

Benefits of Timely Loan Repayments
Timely loan repayments have multiple benefits beyond improving your CIBIL score. Let’s explore:

Improved Creditworthiness
Consistent repayments show financial responsibility, making you a desirable candidate for future loans.

Access to Better Loan Terms
A good CIBIL score can help you secure loans at better interest rates and terms.

Importance of Credit Mix
A healthy credit mix includes both secured and unsecured loans. This diversification can positively impact your CIBIL score.

Secured Loans
Loans backed by collateral like home or auto loans. They are seen as less risky by lenders.

Unsecured Loans
Loans without collateral like personal loans and credit cards. They carry higher interest rates and risk.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds require active management and market knowledge. Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures professional management.

Market Volatility
Direct funds expose you to market volatility. Professional management can help navigate these fluctuations better.

Time and Expertise
Managing direct funds requires time and expertise. Professional advisors can provide insights and strategies tailored to your goals.

Advantages of Regular Funds
Investing in regular funds through an MFD with CFP credential provides multiple benefits:

Professional Management
Funds are managed by experts with deep market knowledge. They can make informed decisions on your behalf.

Regular Monitoring
Professional managers regularly monitor and adjust the portfolio to align with market conditions and your financial goals.

Final Insights
Improving your CIBIL score is a gradual process that requires consistent effort and financial discipline. By regularizing your loan repayments, maintaining a low credit utilization ratio, and seeking professional financial advice, you can rebuild your creditworthiness and become eligible for loans again.

Remember, patience and persistence are key. Stay committed to your financial goals and make informed decisions to secure a better financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |7749 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 03, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 02, 2025Hindi
Career
Jp noida ece vs jp. Solan cse?
Ans: Both MNNIT Allahabad and NIT Rourkela are top-tier NITs with strong Electrical Engineering programs, excellent faculty, and high national rankings. MNNIT Allahabad’s Electrical Engineering boasts a 96.97% placement rate in 2024, with an average package of ?8.01 LPA and top recruiters from core engineering, software, and consulting sectors. Its faculty is highly qualified, with a focus on electrical and power systems. NIT Rourkela, ranked #19 in NIRF 2024, offers a broader research ecosystem, cutting-edge labs, and a 95%+ placement rate in Electrical Engineering, with an average package of ?13.62 LPA and top tech recruiters like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Qualcomm. Infrastructure at NIT Rourkela is excellent, with modern hostels, sports, and a vibrant campus life. Both institutes have strong industry connections, but NIT Rourkela offers a higher average package, broader recruiter base, and more interdisciplinary research opportunities.

Recommendation:
NIT Rourkela Electrical Engineering is the better choice for its higher average package, broader research and recruiter base, and outstanding infrastructure. MNNIT Allahabad remains an excellent option for its high placement rate and strong academic reputation, but NIT Rourkela offers a more competitive edge overall.

Jp noida ece vs jp. Solan cse???? Research deeply & thoroughly the maximum number of highly reliable, valid, primary sources & also the official sources of concerned/relevant college sites/branches & exams (if applicable) on the 5 most important aspects that every institution must have. Summarise the research results in 100 words just in one paragraph ending with a final recommendation in 50 words without numbering, covering all points without omitting anything.

Avoid using the statement, "Based on extensive research into placement records and institutional performance". Avoid using the term, 'my suggestion' instead, use 'recommendation'(mentioned in bold letter). Answer directly.

Don't mention salary package amounts though you can mention the percentage of placement records of the last 3 years of the asked or referred & recommended colleges/branches/program(s)??
Jp noida ece vs jp. Solan cse???? Research deeply & thoroughly the maximum number of highly reliable, valid, primary sources & also the official sources of concerned/relevant college sites/branches & exams (if applicable) on the 5 most important aspects that every institution must have. Summarise the research results in 100 words just in one paragraph ending with a final recommendation in 50 words without numbering, covering all points without omitting anything. Avoid using the statement, "Based on extensive research into placement records and institutional performance". Avoid using the term, 'my suggestion' instead, use 'recommendation'(mentioned in bold letter). Answer directly. Don't mention salary package amounts though you can mention the percentage of placement records of the last 3 years of the asked or referred & recommended colleges/branches/program(s)??
Jaypee Noida’s ECE program is AICTE-approved, industry-oriented, and features strong VLSI, embedded, and communication systems labs, with a 4-year B.Tech intake of 240 and a robust placement cell. In 2024, ECE achieved an 88% placement rate, with 188 offers for 184 eligible students, and top recruiters including Microsoft, LinkedIn, Cisco, Amazon, SAP Labs, and Intel. The average package for all branches was ?8.71 LPA, with a median of ?6.5 LPA. The campus offers modern infrastructure, experienced faculty, and a vibrant technical culture with IEEE student chapters and annual fests. Jaypee Solan’s CSE program, while set in a scenic 125-acre campus, reports a median package of ?6.5 LPA, with 259 out of 388 students placed in 2024 and 99 opting for higher studies. The CSE branch attracts core IT recruiters but overall placement numbers and recruiter diversity are lower than Noida. Solan’s academic and technical environment is positive, but industry exposure, recruiter presence, and placement consistency are comparatively limited.

Recommendation:
Jaypee Noida ECE is preferable for its higher placement rate, stronger recruiter base, advanced labs, and proximity to Delhi NCR’s tech ecosystem. Jaypee Solan CSE is a good backup, but Jaypee Noida offers better long-term industry exposure and placement consistency. Choose Noida ECE for broader career prospects. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |7749 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 03, 2025

Career
Sir, we are from ghaziabad . My son's jee mains rank is 10562. He got electrical engineering in mnnit allahabad . May get ee in nit Rourkela. Which is better?
Ans: Indu Madam, Both MNNIT Allahabad and NIT Rourkela are top-tier NITs with strong Electrical Engineering programs, excellent faculty, and high national rankings. MNNIT Allahabad’s Electrical Engineering boasts a 96.97% placement rate in 2024, with an average package of ?8.01 LPA and top recruiters from core engineering, software, and consulting sectors. Its faculty is highly qualified, with a focus on electrical and power systems. NIT Rourkela, ranked #19 in NIRF 2024, offers a broader research ecosystem, cutting-edge labs, and a 95%+ placement rate in Electrical Engineering, with an average package of ?13.62 LPA and top tech recruiters like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Qualcomm. Infrastructure at NIT Rourkela is excellent, with modern hostels, sports, and a vibrant campus life. Both institutes have strong industry connections, but NIT Rourkela offers a higher average package, broader recruiter base, and more interdisciplinary research opportunities.

Recommendation:
NIT Rourkela Electrical Engineering is the better choice for its higher average package, broader research and recruiter base, and outstanding infrastructure. MNNIT Allahabad remains an excellent option for its high placement rate and strong academic reputation, but NIT Rourkela offers a more competitive edge overall. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |7749 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 03, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |7749 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 03, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 02, 2025Hindi
Career
Which is better to chose nit Durgapur maths and computing and cbit hyd cse
Ans: NIT Durgapur’s B.Tech in Mathematics and Computing is a newly launched, industry-aligned program blending advanced mathematics, optimization, coding, and computational sciences, taught by PhD faculty specializing in fields like cryptography, AI, and operations research. The institute boasts an 84–85% placement rate, with top recruiters such as Microsoft, Amazon, Oracle, TCS, and PwC, and an average B.Tech package of ?13.6 LPA. The course is designed for careers in data science, analytics, finance, software development, and research, with a strong coding and problem-solving focus. CBIT Hyderabad’s CSE department, affiliated with Osmania University, is recognized for research in AI, ML, cybersecurity, and blockchain, and organizes regular workshops with Microsoft, IBM, and professional bodies. Placements in CSE at CBIT consistently exceed 80–100% with leading recruiters like Microsoft, Accenture, Infosys, and Oracle, and an average package of ?6–7 LPA. The campus offers modern labs, a vibrant student life, and a strong alumni network, though hostel options for girls are limited. Both programs have highly qualified faculty, active research culture, and strong placement records.

Recommendation:
If you prefer a core computer science curriculum with robust placements and industry exposure, choose CSE at CBIT Hyderabad. For a mathematically rigorous, coding-intensive program with broad analytics and software roles, NIT Durgapur Maths and Computing is excellent. For pure software engineering and tech industry focus, CBIT CSE is preferred. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |7749 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 03, 2025

Career
Sir My daughter got Electrical in IIT indore and EE in IIT BHU which one is better
Ans: Namitha Madam, IIT Indore’s Electrical Engineering program offers a modern, interdisciplinary curriculum with expertise in power systems, renewable energy, smart grids, nanotechnology, and signal processing, supported by 15 PhD faculty and active collaborations with industry leaders like L&T for research in renewable energy and software control. The department achieved a 96.88% placement rate in 2023, with an average package of ?25.7 LPA and top recruiters including Amazon, Microsoft, Oracle, and Goldman Sachs. IIT BHU’s Electrical Engineering department is renowned for research in electric vehicle technology, indigenous charging infrastructure, and government-supported innovation, with strong industry and research collaborations. Both institutes offer robust labs, high placement rates, and a national reputation, but IIT Indore stands out for its recent industry-academic partnerships and high placement consistency in the electrical branch.

Recommendation:
Choose IIT Indore Electrical Engineering for its advanced interdisciplinary curriculum, excellent recent placement record, and strong industry collaborations. IIT BHU is also a top choice for its legacy and research, but IIT Indore offers a slight edge in placement consistency and industry integration for electrical engineering graduates. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |7749 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 03, 2025

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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