Your credit score plays an important role in shaping your financial profile, and influences your ability to secure loans and other forms of credit down the line. One factor that significantly impacts your credit score is missed Credit Card bill payments. You must also avoid late payments to sidestep penalties and other associated charges.
Let’s delve into the consequences of missed credit card bill payments and how they can affect your financial well-being.
Importance of Credit Card Limits
Credit Card limits determine the maximum amount of credit you can utilise. It’s crucial to understand that exceeding your Credit Card limit or maintaining a high Credit Card balance may lower your credit score.
Impact of Late Payments Based on the Number of Days Delayed
Late payments can have different effects on your credit score depending on how many days they’re delayed for. Let’s break it down:
Table of Contents
● Less than 30 Days Late
If you’ve missed a Credit Card bill or loan payment by less than 30 days, it won’t have a major impact on your credit score. But remember, there are still consequences to consider, like late payment fees and the possibility of higher APR (Annual Percentage Rate) on your Credit Card. So it’s best to settle the payment before the 30-day mark to avoid any negative repercussions.
● 30 Days Delay
Once your payment is 30 days late, it can start affecting your credit score if it becomes a frequent occurrence. However, if it’s your first time experiencing a 30-day late payment and you generally make timely payments, the lender might cut you some slack. But if it happens often, it could cause your credit score to drop by as much as 100 points, shifting you from an excellent score to a good or fair one.
● 60 Days Delay
A 60-day late payment can cause a significant blow to your credit score. Since most lenders report to credit bureaus every 30 days, your credit report will reflect the 60-day delay, further dragging down your score. It’s crucial to avoid such delays whenever possible to protect your credit score.
● 90 Days Delay
When a Credit Card bill or loan payment is overdue by 90 days or more, it may become an issue. It will be noted on your credit report and could even be classified as an NPA (Non-Performing Asset). Different lenders have different criteria for NPAs, with some setting the threshold at 90 days and others at 120 days.
● More than 120 Days Delay
Once a payment surpasses the 120-day mark, it gets classified as a “collection” and may leave a dent in your credit score. At this point, your creditworthiness takes a major hit, and it becomes harder to recover.
Remember, the longer a late payment lingers on your credit report, the more it affects your creditworthiness. It’s crucial to make timely payments, be proactive in managing your financial obligations and use your Credit Card smartly to maintain a healthy credit score.
Every Credit Card provider will have their own set of rules and provisions to assess and determine the aforementioned charges and penalties. Ensure that you are well aware of these terms and conditions.
Key Points about Late Payments and Credit Scores
● Payment History Importance:
Payment history is a significant factor in credit scoring, accounting for a substantial part of your credit score.
● Credit Score Impact:
Even a single late payment can lower your credit score, potentially affecting your financial opportunities.
● Credit Report Visibility:
Late payments can remain on your credit report for several years, making it crucial to avoid them whenever possible.
● Credit Card Companies’ Reporting:
Typically, late payments are reported to credit bureaus, which affects your credit score and creditworthiness.
Smart Tips to Avoid Late Payments
● Set Up Payment Reminders:
Use calendar alerts, mobile apps, or automated payment reminders to ensure you never miss a due date.
● Enable Auto-Payments:
Set up automatic bill payments from your bank account to ensure timely payments every month. It would also help you to increase your Credit Card limit in the future.
● Create a Budget:
Maintain a budget to track your expenses and ensure you have sufficient funds to cover credit card bills.
● Payment Prioritisation:
Prioritise Credit Card bill payments to avoid unintentionally missing due dates during busy periods.
Conclusion
Understanding the consequences of missed Credit Card bill payments is crucial for maintaining a healthy credit score. By being aware of the impact of late payments based on the number of days delayed, following smart tips to avoid late payments, and staying informed about credit scores and payment history, you can protect your financial well-being and secure better credit opportunities.