CRIF vs CIBIL Key Difference

CRIF and CIBIL are both credit information companies that provide credit-related services in India. They are widely used by financial institutions, banks, and other lending institutions to determine an individual's creditworthiness before approving loans, credit cards and other forms of credit. It is essential to understand the difference between the two to ensure that you have the best chance of being approved for the credit products you need.

In this post, we will dive deep into the differences between CRIF and CIBIL, two of the most widely used credit rating agencies in India. We will explore how they calculate credit scores, the information they consider, and how they compare to one another. Additionally, we will discuss practical strategies that can help you improve your credit score regardless of which agency you choose. Understanding the intricacies of credit scoring can be the key to unlocking better rates and terms on loans and credit cards. So, read on to gain a comprehensive understanding of CRIF vs CIBIL and take control of your credit score today!

What is CRIF?

CRIF is a global company specialising in credit information and risk management solutions. Founded in 2005, CRIF provides an end-to-end solution for credit score support through data collection, analysis, and decision-making support. CRIF’s offer includes both credit bureau services and software & consulting services for financial institutions and companies.

With its vast experience, CRIF is the ideal partner to help organisations make sound decisions, reduce risks, and improve their business performance.

What is CIBIL?

CIBIL is India’s first and oldest credit information bureau. Established in August 2000, CIBIL collects and maintains data on an individual’s borrowing and repayment history. This information is then used by financial institutions to assess an individual’s creditworthiness before extending loans or issuing credit cards.

CIBIL generates a report known as the ‘Credit Report’ or ‘Credit Information Report’ (CIR). Your CIR contains detailed information about your past credit behaviour which includes both positive and negative aspects. Lenders use this report to determine your loan eligibility, interest rates, and other terms and conditions of the loan.

In short, having a good CIBIL score can help you get better deals for you to apply for personal loan while a poor score may result in you being denied a loan or being offered less favourable terms and conditions. A CIBIL score typically ranges from 300 to 900.

Differences Between CRIF And CIBIL 

1. Identities

CIBIL's credit score is known as the TransUnion CIBIL Score or TUCS. It ranges from 300 to 900, with 300 being the lowest score and 900 being the highest. A score of 750 or above is considered to be good.

CRIF's credit score is called the CRIF High Mark Score and it also ranges from 300 to 900.

2. Calculations

Both agencies use similar methods to calculate their scores, taking into account factors such as repayment history, credit utilisation, etc. However, CIBIL gives more weightage to factors such as length of credit history and type of credits (secured vs unsecured). 

This means that a borrower with a longer credit history and a mix of both secured and unsecured loans is likely to have a higher CIBIL score than someone with a shorter history and only unsecured loans.

CRIF's scoring model is more sensitive to recent activity on your account and also considers the credit enquiries. This means that if you have recently missed payments or increased your utilisation rate, your CRIF score will drop below 300.

3. Licensing

CRIF falls directly under the responsibility of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), while CIBIL, although officially registered and regulated by the RBI, comes under the private unlisted company TransUnion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is evident that CRIF and CIBIL have distinct roles to play in the financial industry. Both serve as credit bureaus with their own set of data and information used by lenders to assess an individual's credit worthiness.

Understanding the differences between the two can help you make informed decisions when it comes to accessing credit options and improving your finances. With these two credit bureaus in place, individuals can easily access credit options and be given a fair chance at improving their finances, even with less than perfect credit ratings. 

If you are looking to apply for a personal loan, you can access SMFG India Credit's personal loan eligibility calculator and apply for your loan along with personal loan documents. Apply today!

Apply for Personal Loan