Access to multiple credit cards has made it easier than ever for you to shop, address daily expenses and cater to emergencies. After all, credit cards offer easy access to credit whenever you need it. What’s more, you get to enjoy exciting benefits like:
Cashback on certain transactions
Discounts and deals
Reward points
Fuel surcharge waivers
Other perks
If you plan to get more than one credit card, it is natural for you to think, “How many credit cards a person can have?” Well, in an emergency, having a range of cards in your wallet can come to your aid. However, if not used diligently, multiple cards can harm your financial health and well-being.
Check out why having several credit cards can be an advantage for you.
Higher Spending Capacity
When you get a card, the issuer gives you a certain credit limit. This is based on your financial standing, past repayment history and other factors. If meeting your needs with a single credit card is difficult, you can apply for another credit card.
This helps you get an additional credit limit and you enjoy an enhanced spending capacity. This can help you cover your big-ticket and daily expenses conveniently.
Chance to Improve Your Credit Score
A high credit score is an indicator of good creditworthiness, which makes it easier for you to get approval on your loan applications. Your credit score is influenced by a number of factors and one of them is timely repayment of credit.
When you have more than one credit card, you can distribute your expenses across various cards and due dates. This can help you pay your dues on time and boost your credit score.
Way to Maintain Your Credit Utilisation Ratio
The credit utilisation ratio is another important factor that affects your creditworthiness. Experts recommend keeping it at around 30%, which means you can only use your credit card limit up to a certain point. For instance, if your credit limit is ₹1 lakh, you can use just ₹30,000.
With a single credit card, spending as per your needs can prove difficult due to this reason. However, if you have more than one credit card, you will be able to utilise 30% of the available limit on each card. This will help you address your needs while maintaining the ideal credit utilisation ratio.
Here are some limitations associated with having several credit cards on hand.
Higher Associated Charges
Credit cards are associated with various types of fees and charges like:
Annual maintenance fees
Joining fees
Transaction charges
When you have multiple credit cards, be careful about accumulating all these costs. If not,
these costs may outweigh the benefits you get.
Enhanced Risk of Falling Into a Debt Trap
Having a number of credit cards means that you get an increased spending limit. You must be cautious while swiping your cards since you need to pay your dues in full at the end of the billing cycle.
If you have several credit cards, you may lose sight of your budget and spend more than you can afford to repay. Non-repayment of the dues comes with high-interest charges and late repayment fees. If you are not cautious, you may get stuck in a debt trap.
Difficulty in Management
Another limitation of getting many credit cards is the difficulty in tracking them. This is because each card follows a different billing cycle and due date. When you have multiple liabilities, you may miss out on some payments. This can lead to accumulated interest on outstanding amounts and bring your credit score down.
All in all, having several credit cards comes with a number of pros and cons, but it all comes down to making the right decision. It is important to understand your requirements and ensure you make the most of the benefits that these cards offer.
Fibe App or on our website to enjoy discounts on dining, up to 3% cashback on every transaction and more. You can link it with your UPI ID and execute various transactions conveniently and safely, too.
FAQs on How Many Credit Cards You Should Have
Is 4 credit cards too many?
The suitable number of credit cards depends on your requirements and preferences. Four credit cards can give you a higher credit limit. This can help you cover your expenses effectively while also enabling you to maintain a lower credit utilisation ratio. If you can manage four cards effectively without overburdening your finances, there is no problem.
How many credit cards are considered a lot?
You can get any number of credit cards since there is no restriction on how many credit cards you can get. However, you must remember that several credit cards have different billing cycles and tracking the due dates can be difficult. Having up to three cards is ideal if you can manage repayment seamlessly.
How many credit cards can I have?
The right number of credit cards to have depends on your personal expenses, usage and preferences. If you need a higher amount for your expenses, getting several credit cards can help as they help you keep the credit utilisation ratio in control. That said, you must consider your existing financial obligations before opting for multiple cards.
A credit card statement can be an essential tool that can help you manage your transactions wisely and without much hassle. The card provider generates this document at the end of every billing cycle or at the cardholder’s request.
While you can check your billing amount and other important details with the credit card statement, it also helps you monitor unauthorised transactions. In addition, keeping track of your credit card history enables you to use the card wisely.
Moreover, checking the upcoming due date on the statement can help you dodge late payment penalties. Read on to learn the steps of how to download credit card statements, details you can find, and more.
What details appear on your Credit Card statement?
Here are a few important details you can get using the statement.
Your Personal Information: This includes your full name, address, contact information, email ID, etc.
Payment Due Date: The last date to pay bills, after which the issuer will charge late payment fees.
Total Billing Amount: The entire amount you need to pay, including withdrawal amount, balance carried forward from the last billing cycle, late fees, service charge, etc.
Minimum Amount Due: The minimum amount you must pay to continue using the credit card, which is usually 5% of the total amount due.
Grace Period: The timeline between the closing date of the billing cycle and the due date, which is the duration when the card issuer does not charge any late payment fee.
Credit Limit: It refers to the maximum amount you can withdraw or use.
Outstanding Balance: This means the total amount you owe to the credit card issuer.
Transaction History: The record of all card transactions initiated within the billing cycle.
Banking Fees: All the fees and charges added to your bill, including interest, cash advance charges, late payment fees, service charges, etc.
Rewards and offers: This means the total accumulated reward points with their expiry dates.
If you are wondering, “How to know credit card statement details?” keep in mind that issuers allow you to generate your statement online or by contacting your bank. Here’s how you can easily get your credit card statement.
Generate Your Statement Online
If you want to generate your statement quickly, you can opt for the net banking option. Visiting the issuer’s website and logging in to your account allows you to access your statement. Here, you can review your statement under the card section and save the same in PDF format.
Another method to get your statement online is through email. You can register your email ID with the issuer to receive a monthly statement. You will receive your statement on a fixed date, depending on your billing cycle. This file will be password protected, so your details remain safe.
Get Your Statement Offline
To get your credit card account statement offline, you can request your issuer for a physical copy. The issuer will send the document to your registered residential address. However, credit card issuers request their customers to opt for online methods. Since this document contains sensitive information, sending a physical statement is risky.
Your statement helps you easily keep track of your finances. Here are some of its benefits:
It helps you track the credit card due date and the minimum due amount
It maintains transparency and helps avoid errors or fraud
It gives you information on your outstanding amount and credit limit
It helps you plan your finances better
It helps you review the fees and charges levied by your credit card issuer
Considering these benefits, you can plan your finances with ease using a card statement. While all the information it has is crucial, pay special attention to the due date mentioned. This is because paying your bill after this date may incur penalties and late payment changes.
To enjoy the benefits of a credit card and power up your wallet, choose the Fibe Axis Bank Credit Card. Use it to access a plethora of exciting offers, such as up to 3% cashback, dining offers, fuel surcharge waives and more. What’s more, there are zero annual maintenance charges on this card!
Download the Fibe Personal Loan App on your mobile or go to our website to register now and apply for the card in seconds online.
FAQs on Credit Card Statements
Can I see my bank credit card statement online?
Card issuers will send your card statement online via email upon request. Another option to check your credit card statement and credit history online is via net banking.
How to log in to my credit card account?
To log into your credit card net banking account, you can use your customer ID and password provided by the card issuer.
If you miss your credit card due date, most Indian banks charge a late fee based on your outstanding balance, typically ₹100 to ₹1,300 or more. Under RBI rules, this fee can only apply if your bill stays unpaid for more than three days past the due date and only on the outstanding amount, not your total bill.
This space will help you understand how late payment charges work, what RBI has ruled, how the fee is calculated and simple ways to avoid it.
What is Credit Card Late Payment Charges?
A credit card late payment charge is a penalty your bank levies when you fail to pay at least the minimum amount due by your billing due date. Every purchase, EMI conversion, or cash withdrawal in a cycle adds up to your outstanding balance, which you’re expected to clear (fully or partially) before the deadline.
A few things worth knowing:
Charges vary by issuer — each bank sets its own fee slabs.
A grace period applies — no bank can charge a fee the instant you miss your due date.
Interest applies separately — even without a late fee; unpaid balances keep attracting interest.
Paying at least the minimum amount due, typically 5% of your outstanding, avoids the late fee and keeps your card active, but interest still applies on the rest until fully paid.
RBI Guidelines on Credit Card Late Payment Charges
The RBI regulates how and when issuers can charge penalties, to prevent arbitrary fees:
RBI Guideline
What It Means for You
Grace period
Banks must wait 3 days after the due date before levying a fee or marking the account ‘past due’
Fee on outstanding only
Charges apply only to the unpaid amount, not the full bill
No excessive charges
Penalties must be reasonable and proportionate
Advance notice
Fee changes need one month’s prior notice
Transparent disclosure
Fee calculation and overdue days must be clear on your statement
A note on timing: In April 2026, the RBI announced an amendment that standardises this 3-day buffer across all banks, with enforcement from April 1, 2027. Until then, many issuers already follow similar grace-period practices. Your due date itself doesn’t change, only the point at which penalties and bureau reporting begin.
How are Credit Card Late Payment Charges Calculated?
Late fees are tiered, not flat:
Check the outstanding balance on your statement date.
Match it against the issuer’s slab — dues under ₹500 may attract no fee, ₹500–₹5,000 a fixed charge, higher balances a steeper fee.
Apply the fee only after the 3-day grace period, on the unpaid amount only.
Interest accrues separately, daily, compounding until dues clear.
Example: If your bill is ₹20,000 and you pay ₹15,000 before the due date, the late fee (if any) applies only to the remaining ₹5,000.
Effects of Late Credit Card Payment
Missing a payment doesn’t just cost you a fee. It can snowball into a bigger financial problem:
Compounding interest: Unpaid balances attract interest, often 30–45% annually, growing until cleared.
Credit score damage: A default reported to bureaus like CIBIL can pull your score down.
Loss of interest-free period: You typically lose the interest-free window on new purchases until dues clear.
Higher future interest rates: Some issuers revise your rate upward after repeated delays.
Default flag: Persistent non-payment can mark your account as a defaulter, a flag that stays for years.
Why You Should Always Pay Your Credit Card Bill on Time?
Late fees add directly to next cycle’s debt
Carrying forward dues means interest keeps accumulating
Under RBI norms, your account is reported ‘past due’ only after the 3-day grace period, so timely payment protects your credit history
Late payments hurt your credit score, making future loans or cards harder to get
A ‘defaulter’ remark can stay on your credit report for years
How to Avoid Credit Card Late Payment Charges?
1. Opt for the Auto-Debit Facility
Set up auto-debit (NACH/e-mandate) so your bank deducts the bill directly on the due date. Just maintain sufficient balance, a failed auto-debit attracts its own penalty.
2. Pay at Least the Minimum Due Amount
If you’re short on funds, paying the minimum due, generally 5% of your outstanding, prevents a late fee and keeps your card active, though interest still applies on the rest.
3. Set a Reminder
Mark your due date on your phone or email a few days in advance, giving yourself time to arrange funds if cash is tight.
4. Communicate with Your Card Issuer
If you’ll miss the deadline, call your bank beforehand. While penalties only kick in after the 3-day grace period, informing your issuer early can help you negotiate flexibility during a genuine emergency.
5. Review Changes in Terms Regularly
Banks must notify you at least a month before revising fee structures or interest rates. Read these notices; a small print change today could mean a bigger charge next cycle.
With a little planning, avoiding late fees isn’t hard. If you want a card that rewards responsible spending too, the Fibe Axis Bank Credit Card offers up to 3% cashback on all spends, complimentary domestic lounge access and fuel surcharge waivers.
Download the Fibe app or apply via the website to get started.
FAQs on Credit Card Late Payment Charges
1. What is the penalty for a credit card late payment?
It depends on your issuer’s fee slab, calculated on your outstanding due amount. Higher balances attract higher penalties and vice versa.
2. What happens if I am 3 days late for my credit card payment?
Once the grace period lapses, your bank can levy the late fee and report your account as ‘past due.’ You can still contact customer care to check for an extension or waiver.
3. What happens if I pay my credit card bill 1 day late?
Under RBI’s grace-period rule, your bank cannot charge a late fee or report you overdue if you pay within 3 days of the due date.
4. How can I find out the due date for my credit card bill payment?
It’s listed on your monthly statement, along with the minimum due and total outstanding. You can also check it by logging into your card account online or via your bank’s app.
5. What are the RBI guidelines on credit card late payment charges?
A minimum 3-day grace period before any late fee, fees calculated only on the outstanding (not total) amount, a ban on excessive or arbitrary charges and at least one month’s notice before any fee revision.
6. Can banks raise late payment fee charges without prior notice?
No. RBI requires issuers to inform customers at least a month in advance of any change to late payment charges.
7. Do all banks have the same credit card late fee charges?
No. All issuers must follow RBI’s grace-period and calculation rules, but the actual fee slabs are set independently by each bank and can vary.
Due to your busy schedule and on-the-go lifestyle, you may struggle to pay credit card bills on time. Failing to make timely payment of your outstanding balance will lead to piling up of interest with late payment charges. To avoid this additional cost, you can also pay the minimum balance if that fits your budget better. Either way, pay on time to avoid additional charges and keep your creditworthiness intact. To make the process simpler, card issuers allow you to make these payments through several convenient online and offline options.
To learn about the various payment channels that are ideal for your unique financial needs, read on.
How Do You Pay a Credit Card Bill Online?
In this digital age, there’s no longer a need to juggle a pile of paperwork to clear your outstanding balance. Online bill payment has revolutionised the process by making it quick, easier and hassle-free.
Here are the different online modes you can follow:
Net Banking
With these simple steps, you can simply pay your credit card bills at any time:
Step 1: Visit the credit card portal of the issuing bank and log in using your credentials
Step 2: Select your credit card and choose the mode of payment and account
Step 3: Complete the transaction
Step 4: Note that the transaction can take 3 to 5 working days to reflect, so plan your payment accordingly
Auto-debit Facility
This facility permits your card issuer to automatically debit the billing amount from your savings account. Here is how you can opt for this feature on your credit card:
Step 1: Log in to your credit card account using your credentials
Step 2: Select the auto-debit facility and choose the bank from which you make the payment
Step 3: Choose the payment amount (total outstanding balance or minimum payment due)
Step 4: Set up recurring payments by establishing an e-mandate
Step 5: Confirm to activate the auto payment service, which will take a few business days
However, ensure that you maintain the ideal balance so that you can honour the e-mandate and the transaction doesn’t fail.
Mobile Wallet
Third-party payments, such as Google Pay and PhonePe, provide a compelling solution to make quick credit card bill payments. Follow these steps to make payments through a mobile wallet:
Step 1: Go to a third-payment app and click on ‘Pay Bills’ tab
Step 2: Select the ‘Credit Card Bill Payment’ option, enter your card details and amount
Step 3: Select wallet as a payment option and confirm the payment
Note that you must maintain the required funds in your mobile wallet to complete your payment.
How Do You Pay a Credit Card Bill Offline?
If you want to go by the tried and tested offline method of payments, card issuers provide a space for that as well. The following are some of the channels you can utilise:
At ATMs
If you have a credit card from the same bank where you have a savings account, you can also pay the bill via an ATM. Follow these steps to make your payment:
Step 1: Place your debit card into the machine slot of your bank’s ATM
Step 2: Select the ‘Credit Card Bill Payment’ option
Step 3: Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the bill payment
Through Customer Care
Customer care can also help pay your bill in special cases. However, you must have the same credit and debit card provider to enjoy this facility. You can call your credit card customer care and request them for the bill payment facility. The bank will transfer funds toward bill payment after confirming and verifying your details.
Visiting Branch
If you want to clear your billing amount in cash, you can visit the nearest branch of your credit card issuer. Here, you can submit the cash amount and make the payment. However, make sure to collect the payment receipt as proof of payment. The issuer may levy a nominal charge if you opt for this facility.
How to Pay Credit Card Bills from Another Credit Card?
While it is not generally advisable, you can use another credit card to pay off your existing balance. Here are some of the methods you can use:
Balance Transfer Facility
If a card allows you to transfer your credit balance from another card at a reduced rate and a nominal fee, it can be a great idea to avail of this facility. Here are a few things to consider before applying for this feature:
Choose a balance transfer facility that offers attractive interest rates
Be cautious of the temporary impact of balance transfer on your credit score
Compare the transaction fee charged for balance transfer by different lenders if you are getting a new card
Pay Through e-Wallets
Third-party applications also allow you to use another card to pay credit card bills. Follow these simple steps to pay through a mobile wallet:
Open the payment application on your mobile phone
Transfer the required funds from your credit card to your wallet
Select the ‘Credit Card Bill Payment’ option and pay through your mobile wallet
Using the aforementioned options, payment of credit card bills is as easy as it can be. Be wary of the due date and try clearing your dues without any delay. If you plan to get a credit card, you may opt for the latest offering from Fibe.
With the Fibe Axis Bank Credit Card, you can enjoy quick and seamless payment payments through diverse channels. Being India’s first numberless, it comes with enhanced security features, making your every transaction safer. Simply download the Fibe App or register on our website to apply and enjoy a wide array of exciting features!
FAQs on How to Pay Credit Card Bills
How can I pay a credit card bill online?
To pay your credit card bill online, follow these channels:
Log in to your credit card net banking account or mobile app and make payments through the different modes available
Pay the due amount through NEFT and IMPS from your savings or current account
If your card is linked to any payment apps, you can also use that for bill payment of credit cards
Is it good to pay a credit card bill early?
Paying credit card bills before the stipulated timeline has many advantages, which include the following:
Avoid any late charges on your credit card
It lowers your credit card utilisation ratio and improves your credit score
Paying more than the minimum amount also restores a significant part of your limit, allowing you to make the most of your card
What is the best time to pay a credit card bill?
You can complete bill payments of credit cards before the due date to enjoy continued access to their benefits and avoid additional charges.
Can I pay my credit card bill in cash?
Yes, if your savings account and credit card issuing bank are the same, you can visit its nearest branch to pay credit card bill in cash.
For lenders, credit repayment history and creditworthiness are two of the most crucial factors when deciding on your loan approval. A borrower’s credit report reflects these factors, which lenders can access through the control number in CIBIL. Also called the ECN number, it is used by lenders to catalogue your credit details. To know what is a control number in the CIBIL report and its significance, read on.
What is the Control Number in a CIBIL Report?
When you make a loan or credit card request, banks and NBFCs assess your creditworthiness and repayment history. On the basis of these two factors, lenders decide whether to approve or reject your credit application.
A credit report contains these details and helps financial institutions to make the right call. Thus, lenders request credit bureaus like TransUnion CIBIL to provide your credit report. When providing the credit report, credit bureaus generate a control number.
A control number in a CIBIL report is a unique 9-digit number linked with an individual borrower that helps lenders track this report.
What is the Purpose and Significance of a CIBIL Report’s Control Number?
Here are a few reasons why the control no. in a CIBIL report is significant for lenders and borrowers alike:
A control number is a unique number linked with a borrower and helps track their credit report
It allows lenders to access the credit information of a borrower, which includes their creditworthiness, repayment history, etc.
Borrowers can use this number to access their credit report and work on it to improve their credit score
Borrowers can also check for any errors in their CIBIL report with the control number and get them rectified
How Can I Get the Control Number For a CIBIL Report?
As per the Credit Information Companies (Regulation) Act, 2005, a borrower has the right to access their credit report. For this, you can request the lender or credit rating agency for your control number in CIBIL and download the report. You can contact TransUnion CIBIL on their customer helpline number at 022 6140 4300 between Monday to Friday (10 AM to 6 PM). You can also log in to the TransUnion CIBIL website to access your CIBIL report for free.
To retrieve this report, follow the steps mentioned below:
Step 2: Navigate to the ‘Get Your Credit Score’ tab and click on it
Step 3: Enter personal details, such as your name, date of birth, contact details and address
Step 4: Upload and attach copies of your identity and address proof
Step 5: Click on the ‘Accept and Continue’ tab
Once you complete these steps, the website will generate a one-time credit report for you. You can find the control number at the top right corner of this report.
In conclusion, this nine-digit control number in CIBIL is essential for lenders to assess your creditworthiness and repayment history when you apply for a loan. While traditional lenders take a few days to access your CIBIL report and approve your application, you can get a hassle-free Instant Personal Loan on Fibe within a few minutes.
This is because we grant you approval based on an alternate credit scoring mechanism. Download our Personal Loan App or log in to our website to secure a loan at affordable interest rates.
FAQs on What is Control Number in a CIBIL Report
What is the ECN number in CIBIL?
The ECN stands for Enquiry Control Number in CIBIL report. It is a unique 9-digit number that lets lenders track the credit record of a borrower.
What’s a control number?
The ECN is better known as control no. in CIBIL reports. As mentioned, it helps banks and NBFCs track your credit report when you apply for a loan.
What is the 3- or 4-digit control number?
The control no. in CIBIL report doesn’t have 3 or 4 digits. It is a 9-digit number unique to every borrower.
Where do I get my control number?
To get your control number, visit the official TransUnion CIBIL website and download your CIBIL report. It will contain your control number. Alternatively, you can ask a lender for your credit report, which also mentions the control number on the top right corner.
Is the control number important?
Yes, a control number is essential when you apply for a loan or credit card. This is because it helps lenders track your CIBIL report which showcases your creditworthiness and repayment history. Based on this data, lenders decide on whether to approve your loan or credit card request.
Different types of loans help you cover varied expenses by bridging financial gaps. Lenders, such as banks and NBFCs, offer loans based on your usage, eligibility and their internal policies.
You pay interest to enjoy the facility to borrow, so shopping for affordable rates should be your priority when you are looking to borrow. Planning repayment is also key, as not repaying on time can affect your creditworthiness adversely.
What is a loan and what types of loan options are available in the market?
A loan is a financial product that provides you with funds. It comes with certain terms, where you, as the borrower, promise to repay it with interest over a specified duration of time.
There are many types of loans that you can get today and they can be classified into two main categories:
Secured loans require you to pledge an asset as collateral to get access to credit
Unsecured loans do not require any security but may have stricter eligibility terms and high-interest charges
Apart from these, you may come across other loans such as:
Lines of credit
Flexi loans
Loans with fixed or variable interest
These classifications are based on how the amount is disbursed to you as well as the way in which you repay.
In addition, loans are named based on usage, such as wedding loans or home renovation loans. They may also be named based on the borrower’s profile, such as salary advance loans for salaried professionals.
Examples of Secured Loans
Now that you have understood how many types of loans there are, here are some examples of popular types of loans that require collateral.
Home Loans
Home loans are a type of secured loan that provides funds to buy a property or build a house and lenders consider the home you buy or construct as collateral. When you take a home loan, you can get up to 90% of the property’s value as the loan amount.
Loan Against Property
As its name suggests, you can access funds by pledging your property as collateral. With this loan, you can get a loan amount up to 65% to 85% of the property’s market value.
Loan Against Mutual Funds/Fixed Deposits
Such loans allow you to pledge your mutual funds or FD as collateral and get funds for your requirements. Typically, you can get around 50%-60% of the value of MF units as a loan amount or up to 90% of your FD.
Gold Loans
You can also leverage your gold jewellery, coins, or digital gold to get a loan. The LTV ratio of this loan generally ranges between 75% and 90%, which means you can get up to 90% of the metal’s market value as the loan amount.
Car loans, bike loans and loans against insurance policies are other examples of secured loans you can get.
Here is a look at various types of unsecured loans you can get. They do not require you to risk your assets and may be faster to get as well.
Personal Loans
These are the most popular lending options that allow you to enjoy instant liquidity. They come with no use-case restrictions, which means you can use the funds freely. Most applicants use these loans to address emergencies and big-ticket expenses.
Based on the use case, there are several types of personal loans, including:
Vehicle loans
Education loans
Travel loans
Medical loans
Debt consolidation loans
Home renovation loans
Consumer durable loans
Short-Term Business Loans
Entrepreneurs can make the best use of these unsecured loans to set up their business or expand it. Some types of short-term business loans include the following:
Equipment and machinery loan
Working capital loan
MSME loan
Loan for women entrepreneurs
With this guide, you can take the next step towards bridging financial gaps with ease. Remember to choose a lender who is 100% transparent, has no hidden charges and offers repayment flexibility and easy access via online processes. Get all these advantages and more on Fibe, where you can access a variety of Instant Personal Loans of up to ₹5 lakhs.
Download the Instant Cash Loan App or log in to our website to get started with a simple and quick digital application.
FAQs on Different Types of Loans
What are the four classifications of loans?
The four different types of loans that most lenders offer in India include secured, unsecured, fixed-interest and variable-interest loans.
What is the most common type of loan?
The most common type of loan you can get access to is a personal loan.
Which loan is popular in India?
Some of the popular lending options in India include personal, home and gold loans.
Which loan has a high-interest rate?
An unsecured or collateral-free loan generally comes with a higher interest rate as compared to a secured loan.
DPD in CIBIL stands for Days Past Due. It shows how many days you delayed paying a loan EMI or credit card bill after the due date. In simple terms, DPD in CIBIL means your month-wise repayment behaviour and lenders use it to understand whether you repay credit on time.
If your DPD value is ‘000’, it means you paid on time. If it shows 30, 60, 90 or more, it means the payment was delayed by those many days. This is why knowing ‘what is DPD in banking’ is important for borrowers to check their credit report before applying for a loan.
DPD Full Form in CIBIL
The full form of DPD is Days Past Due. In a CIBIL report, DPD appears in the payment history section of each loan or credit card account.
For example, if your credit card bill due date was 5 May and you paid it on 20 May, your DPD may show a delay of around 15 days, depending on how your lender reports the data.
DPD in banking is used to track overdue payments. In CIBIL, the same information helps lenders assess repayment discipline.
What is DPD in CIBIL Report?
Days Past Due meaning in CIBIL is the number of days by which a borrower has delayed repayment after the due date. It is shown monthly for every active or closed credit account in your credit report.
Think of DPD as a repayment timeline. It does not only show whether you missed a payment; it also shows how late the payment was.
For example:
Payment Status
What It Means
Paid on due date
DPD shows 000
Paid 30 days late
DPD may show 30
Paid 90+ days late
DPD may show 90 or asset classification values
No data reported
DPD may show XXX
A single delayed payment may affect your credit score temporarily. However, repeated delays or higher DPD values can create a stronger negative impact.
Why is DPD Important in a CIBIL Report?
DPD is important because it gives lenders a clear view of your repayment habits. Your CIBIL score is a summary of your credit behaviour, while DPD shows the month-by-month details behind that score.
Lenders may check DPD to understand:
Whether you pay EMIs and credit card bills on time
How often you delay repayments
How serious the delay was
Whether the delay is recent or old
Whether your repayment behaviour has improved
A borrower with a slightly lower credit score but clean DPD records may still look more reliable than someone with multiple recent delays.
DPD Values in CIBIL Report: What Each Value Means
A CIBIL report can show numeric as well as alphabetic DPD values. Here is what each value usually means:
DPD Value
Meaning
Impact
000
Payment made on time
Positive
XXX
Lender has not reported data for that month
Usually neutral
30
Payment delayed by up to 30 days
Negative
60
Payment delayed by up to 60 days
More negative
90
Payment delayed by up to 90 days
Serious negative impact
STD
Standard account; payment overdue for less than 90 days
Less severe than higher overdue status
SUB
Sub-standard account; overdue for more than 90 days
Negative
DBT
Doubtful account; account has remained sub-standard for a long time
Highly negative
LSS
Loss account; lender considers recovery difficult
Highly negative
000
This is the safest DPD value. It means you paid your dues on time for that month. A long record of 000 values improves lender confidence.
XXX
XXX means the lender has not submitted payment data for that month. It usually does not harm your credit score.
30, 60 and 90
These numbers show the number of days a payment was overdue. A 30-day delay is less serious than a 90-day delay, but all delayed payment entries can affect your creditworthiness.
STD
STD stands for Standard. It usually means the account is overdue but not beyond 90 days.
SUB
SUB stands for Sub-standard. It indicates that the account has remained overdue for more than 90 days.
DBT
DBT refers to Doubtful. It means the account has remained in a sub-standard category for a longer period and the lender may see recovery as uncertain.
LSS
LSS stands for Loss. It means the lender considers the chances of recovering the amount very low.
DPD vs Credit Score: How DPD Affects Your CIBIL Score
Your credit score is a three-digit number, while DPD is a detailed repayment record. Both are connected.
Here’s how DPD can affect your CIBIL score:
DPD Pattern
Possible Effect
Mostly 000
Helps build a strong credit profile
One old delay
May have limited impact if recent payments are clean
Frequent 30/60 DPD
Can reduce score and lender confidence
90+ DPD
Can seriously affect loan approval chances
SUB, DBT or LSS
May make loan approval difficult
Recent delays generally matter more than older ones. For example, a 60-day delay from last month may worry lenders more than a 30-day delay from four years ago.
How to Improve Your DPD in CIBIL Report?
You cannot directly ‘change’ a correct DPD entry, but you can improve your repayment record over time. Here are practical steps:
Pay every EMI and credit card bill on time: Set reminders or auto-debit instructions to avoid missing due dates.
Clear overdue payments quickly: The longer a payment remains unpaid, the worse the DPD impact can become.
Avoid minimum-only credit card payments: Paying only the minimum amount can increase interest burden and make repayment harder.
Track all active loans: Keep a list of loan EMIs, due dates, lender names and repayment amounts.
Check your CIBIL report regularly: Review the payment history section and look for incorrect DPD entries.
Borrow only what you can repay comfortably: A manageable EMI reduces the risk of future delays.
A simple rule to follow: ‘Your best DPD value is 000 and your best credit habit is consistency.’
How to Resolve DPD Errors in a CIBIL Report?
Sometimes, a DPD entry may be incorrect. For example, you may have paid on time, but your report still shows a delay. This can happen due to reporting errors, technical delays or incorrect lender updates.
To resolve a DPD error:
Download your latest CIBIL report
Identify the incorrect account and month
Keep proof of payment ready, such as bank statements or receipts
Raise a dispute with TransUnion CIBIL
Wait for the lender to verify and share corrected data
Recheck your report once the dispute is resolved
Once the lender confirms the correction, CIBIL updates the report accordingly.
A CIBIL score depends on several factors, including repayment history, credit utilisation, credit mix, loan enquiries and DPD remarks. If you need funds, Fibe offers Instant Personal Loans of up to ₹10 lakhs with flexible repayment tenure. You can apply online through the Fibe Personal Loan App or website and choose a repayment plan that suits your budget.
FAQs on Days Past Due (DPD) in a CIBIL Report
1. Which DPD value has a negative impact on your CIBIL report?
All DPD values except 000 and XXX can negatively affect your CIBIL report. Higher delays such as 60, 90, SUB, DBT and LSS usually have a stronger impact.
2. When does the DPD in the CIBIL report get updated?
DPD gets updated when lenders report repayment data to the credit bureau. This usually happens periodically, often once every month.
3. Where can I find the DPD value in the CIBIL report?
You can find DPD values under the payment history or credit account information section of your CIBIL report.
4. What is the DPD full form in CIBIL?
The DPD full form in CIBIL is Days Past Due. It shows how many days a loan EMI or credit card payment was delayed.
5. What does 000 DPD mean in CIBIL report?
000 DPD means you paid your dues on time. It is the best DPD value to have in your CIBIL report.
6. What does STD mean in CIBIL report?
STD means Standard. It usually indicates that the account is overdue for less than 90 days.
7. How does DPD affect loan approval?
High or frequent DPD values can reduce lender confidence and lower your chances of loan approval. Clean DPD records can improve your creditworthiness.
8. How long does a DPD entry stay on a CIBIL report?
Missed or delayed repayment data can remain visible in your credit history for several years. However, its impact may reduce over time if you maintain regular repayments.
9. Can I get a loan if I have a high DPD in CIBIL?
Yes, but approval may be difficult. Lenders may charge a higher interest rate, offer a lower amount or reject the application depending on the severity and recency of the DPD entry.
A flat rate of interest differs from a reduced rate, so before you choose a loan, knowing which is better for you is important. Lenders offer various types of interest rates and a suitable option can lower your borrowing costs.
Read on to understand flat vs reducing interest rates.
What is a Flat Interest Rate?
A flat interest rate is the rate of interest that remains unchanged through the tenure of the loan. The interest is calculated for the total loan amount at the start of the loan tenure. The financial institution determines the EMI amount and the schedule of repayment.
In this type of interest rate, the liability remains fixed, helping you manage your finances better. However, keep in mind that the total interest liability is higher for flat rates when compared to reducing rates.
Check out the flat interest rate formula:
Flat interest rate = (P × R × T)/100
Where,
P is the principal loan amount
R is the interest rate in percentage
T is the repayment period
What is Reducing Interest Rate?
A reducing rate is a type of interest in which your interest liability reduces with every EMI payment. This is because the interest is computed on the outstanding loan amount each time you repay a portion of the loan.
Since your interest dues decrease with every instalment, this can be a more cost-effective option.
Here is the formula for reducing interest rates:
Reducing interest rate = [P x R x (1+I) ^ T] ÷ [((1+I) ^ T) -1)]
Difference Between Flat and Reducing Interest Rates
Check out how flat and reducing interest rates differ, which can help you plan your loan terms better.
Type of Calculation
With a loan that has a reducing interest rate, the interest you pay is based on the outstanding loan amount. Here, the payable interest is calculated on the new principal after each EMI is paid.
On the other hand, the lenders calculate the flat interest rate on the original loan amount at the beginning of the loan tenure. After that, the total interest is added to the principal amount and divided by tenure.
Ease of Calculation
Lenders calculate flat ROI vs reducing ROI very differently. It is comparatively easier to calculate the payable interest for flat interest rates. This is because they remain fixed throughout the duration of the loan.
The calculation of interest payable for reducing interest rates is complicated since the interest amount changes with each EMI you pay. In this case, the payable interest is calculated on the outstanding loan amount.
Suitability and Affordability
Reducing interest rate loans are comparatively more affordable, as with each EMI your interest liability for the loan reduces. However, this is not so in the case of flat-interest rate loans.
Benefits of Flat Vs. Reducing Interest Rates Calculator
To make the calculation of your loan interest easier, you can use a flat vs. reducing interest rates calculator. Here are some benefits of this tool:
You can use the tool online anytime and anywhere with a device and internet connection
You can get the results easily by inputting the basic details of the loan
You can save time and energy by eliminating the need for manual calculations
You can evaluate the total cost of your loan easily and plan the repayment better
You can compare flat and reducing rates to understand which option is more cost-effective for you
The more time you save by calculating the EMIs digitally, the more time you can spend to compare rates in the financial marketplace and choose the best offer. Now that you know about flat vs reducing interest rates, make a smart borrowing decision. A flat rate of interest is easier to understand but can be expensive in the long run. So, research your options and choose one that suits your repayment plan while keeping the borrowing cost lower.
To meet your financial needs easily and quickly, you can get a Fibe Instant Personal Loan. You can benefit from low interest rates, minimal documentation and quick approvals. Download the Fibe Personal Loan App or register on the website to get a loan of up to ₹5 lakh hassle-free.
FAQs on Reducing vs Flat Interest Rates
What is an example of a flat and reducing rate of interest?
Say you get a loan of ₹1 lakh for 12 months at a 10% interest rate. In a reducing balance interest rate calculation, your EMI will be ₹8,792 and the total payable amount comes to ₹1,05,499.
When you choose a flat interest rate, your EMI comes to ₹9,167 and the total payable amount will be ₹1,10,000. So, you stand to save ₹4,501 with a reduced interest rate calculation.
Which is better: a flat or a reduced interest rate?
A reduced interest rate can be better than a flat rate since it frees up your income as the tenure of the loan progresses. However, flat interest rates are more commonly available and easier to calculate.
Are reducing interest rates good?
With this method, you pay the loan principal amount sooner. This way, the interest on the outstanding amount decreases periodically. Thus, it may be a more affordable option.
What financial products use flat interest rates?
Typically, personal loans and hire purchase agreements come with flat interest rates.
You may have heard of lenders who waive loans or write them off. When a borrower fails to repay the loan instalments for 90 days, banks and other lending institutions consider it a bad debt or a non-performing asset (NPA). That is when they take action by either waiving off loans or writing them off. Both these terms may seem interchangeable but they are not.
To know the loan waiver meaning and how it differs from a loan write-off, read on.
Difference between loan write-off and loan waive-off
Check the following table to understand what happens when lenders waive loans or write them off.
Particulars
Loan Waive-Offs
Loan Write-Offs
Meaning
Lenders waive loans when they give up all claims to recover the loan amount.
A loan write-off means the lender declares a part of the loan amount as uncollectible. It is then recorded as a bad debt or a non-performing asset (NPA) in their ledger.
Loan Recovery
It relieves the borrower from the burden of repaying the loan.
A loan write-off doesn’t mean that the borrower need not pay back the repayment amount.
Collateral
When lenders waive loans, they release the collateral and return it to the borrower.
When the lender writes off the loan, they can legally retain the collateral and auction it to recover the loan amount.
Eligibility
Banks generally provide a waive-off to farmers when they find it challenging to repay the loan due to natural calamities.
The lender can write off the loan of any borrower when they want to clear their balance sheet.
Legal Consequences
There are no legal consequences against the borrower.
The lender can initiate legal proceedings in this context.
Example of a written-off loan
To understand this better, consider this example: Say Y took a loan of ₹5 lakhs for a duration of 36 months. Y repaid the loan regularly for a year but failed to pay further instalments as his finances dwindled.
The lender tried contacting Y several times but did not hear from him. This led the lender to write off the loan, which means taking it off its balance sheet to optimise tax liabilities. However, the lender keeps the loan in its books of account and tries to recover it when possible. The lender also has the option to recover the loan by auctioning the collateral provided by Y at the time of application.
Example of waived-off loan
Here is another example. Say farmer X took a loan of ₹1 lakh to be repaid over a tenure of 18 months to purchase seeds and equipment for cultivation. For five months, he made regular repayments but subsequently floods destroyed his crop.
This lowered his odds of repaying the loan. However, the state government decided to waive off loans of up to ₹1 lakh for farmers facing problems due to floods. In other words, X will not have to repay the loan. In case X has provided collateral for the loan, the lender will return it.
Benefits of writing off and waiving off loans
Here are the pros of loan write-offs for lenders:
By writing off a loan, lenders can enjoy tax rebates and clean up their balance sheet
Writing off loans allows lenders to provide the remaining amount of the loan to another borrower
Even after writing the loan off, lenders have the right to recover the loan from the borrower
On the other hand, lenders provide loan waivers to marginalised borrowers, like farmers. This allows farmers to manage their finances better in trying times, such as when natural calamities lead to destruction of their crop.
As mentioned above, a loan becomes an NPA when the borrower fails to repay it for 90 days. A major reason why borrowers face challenges in repaying loans is the high interest rate and rigid repayment tenure.
With Fibe’s hassle-free Instant Personal Loan or Instant Cash loan, you can rest assured of competitive interest rates and flexible repayment schedules. Download our Personal Loan App here, or log in to our website to enjoy instant disbursal on loans of up to ₹5 lakhs.
FAQs on Difference Between Loan Write-Off and Loan Waive-Off
What is an example of a loan write-off?
Here is an example: Say X took a personal loan of ₹2 lakhs for a tenure of 24 months. After six months, X could not pay EMIs as he was unable to manage his finances properly. He did not inform the lender.
The lender followed up several times but X could not repay any more. The bank then decides to write off the loan. This means that the bank will keep the loan in their books of account so that they can recover the loan amount in the future when X finds himself on stable financial ground.
What is a waived-off loan?
A loan waiver-off happens when the lender exempts the borrower from repaying the loan.
What is a waiver of a loan?
A loan waiver is the process of releasing the borrower from the burden of repayment of a loan. It means that the lender will not make any more efforts to recover the remaining amount.
A loan overdue means you have missed paying your EMI, interest, principal or any other loan-related amount by the scheduled due date. In simple terms, if your EMI was due on the 5th of the month and you did not pay it by then, that unpaid amount becomes overdue. If the delay continues, lenders may charge penalties, report the delay to credit bureaus and, in serious cases, classify the account as a non-performing asset after the regulatory threshold.
Even one missed EMI should be taken seriously because repayment history is an important part of your credit profile. Your CIBIL report records details such as current balance, overdue amount, last payment date and up to 36 months of payment history for loan and credit card accounts.
What is a Loan Overdue? — Overdue Loan Meaning
A loan overdue is the unpaid amount on a loan that has crossed its repayment due date. This may include:
Missed EMI amount
Unpaid interest
Penal charges or late payment fees
Any other lender-approved charges mentioned in the loan agreement
For example, if your personal loan EMI of ₹8,000 was due on 10 May and you paid it on 18 May, the EMI remained overdue for 8 days. If you miss multiple EMIs, the overdue amount keeps increasing and may attract additional charges.
Simple definition
Loan overdue = EMI or loan payment not paid by the due date.
Lenders may initially send reminders through SMS, email, calls or app notifications. However, repeated delays can affect your credit score and borrowing eligibility.
How is the Overdue Amount Calculated?
The overdue amount is usually calculated by adding the unpaid EMI amount, applicable interest, late payment charges and other penalties, if any.
The exact calculation varies from lender to lender, so borrowers should always check the loan agreement, repayment schedule and lender communication.
Example of overdue loan calculation
Let’s say you have a personal loan EMI of ₹10,000 due on 5 June.
Particulars
Amount
Missed EMI
₹10,000
Late payment penalty
₹500
Additional interest/penal interest
₹150
Other applicable charges, if any
₹0
Total overdue amount
₹10,650
In this case, you may need to pay ₹10,650 to clear the overdue amount. If you delay further or miss the next EMI too, the overdue balance can increase.
Important note
Some lenders may calculate charges as a flat fee, while others may charge a percentage of the overdue EMI or outstanding amount. Always check the schedule of charges before taking a loan.
Loan Overdue Charges: What Does Your Lender Charge?
Loan overdue charges are the extra costs a lender may apply when you miss your repayment due date. These charges are not the same for every bank, NBFC or loan app.
Common loan overdue charges include:
Type of charge
What it means
Late payment fee
A fixed or percentage-based fee charged when EMI is not paid on time
Penal interest
Additional interest charged on the overdue amount
Bounce charges
Charged if your auto-debit, NACH, ECS or cheque payment fails
Collection charges
May apply in some cases if recovery follow-ups are initiated
Legal or repossession charges
May apply in severe default cases, especially secured loans
Example
If your EMI is ₹12,000 and your lender charges 2% as a late payment fee, your penalty may be:
₹12,000 × 2% = ₹240
So, your payable amount may become ₹12,240 plus any additional interest or bounce charges, if applicable.
Outstanding payment and overdue payment are often used together, but they do not mean the same thing.
Parameters
Outstanding Payments
Overdue Payments
Definition
The remaining loan amount that is yet to be repaid
The EMI or repayment amount that was due but not paid on time
Payment timeline
Future EMIs
Past missed EMIs
Status
Not necessarily late
Already delayed
Impact on credit score
Can help build credit if paid on time
Can negatively affect credit health
Penalties
No penalty if paid as scheduled
May attract late fees, penal interest or bounce charges
Repayment option
Can be repaid through regular EMIs, prepayment or foreclosure
Should be paid immediately to avoid further consequences
Example
If your total remaining loan balance is ₹1,20,000, that is your outstanding amount.
If your last EMI of ₹8,000 is unpaid after the due date, that ₹8,000 becomes your overdue amount.
Consequences of Not Repaying a Loan on Time
Missing one EMI may look manageable, but repeated delays can create a bigger financial problem. Here are the major consequences of overdue loan payments.
1. Reminders and notices from the lender
Initially, the lender may send payment reminders through SMS, email, phone calls or app notifications. If the dues remain unpaid, the lender may issue a formal notice asking you to clear the overdue amount by a specific date.
2. Late payment penalties
Lenders may charge a late payment fee or penal interest on the overdue amount. The longer you delay, the more you may have to pay.
3. Impact on credit score
Late payments can impact your credit score because credit bureaus consider repayment behaviour while evaluating your credit profile. CIBIL explains that Days Past Due, or DPD, shows how many days a payment on a loan or credit card account was late in a particular month. Anything other than “000” or “STD” may be viewed negatively by lenders.
4. Difficulty getting future loans
A history of overdue payments can make future loan approvals difficult. Even if you get approved, lenders may offer a lower loan amount, higher interest rate or stricter terms.
5. Damage to credit report
Your credit report may show overdue amounts, delayed payment history and account status. These details can influence how lenders assess your repayment reliability.
6. Higher borrowing cost
A lower credit score may lead to higher interest rates on future personal loans, credit cards, home loans or business loans.
7. Risk of collateral loss in secured loans
If the loan is secured, such as a car loan, gold loan or loan against property, continued default may allow the lender to recover dues through the collateral after following the applicable legal process.
8. Legal action in severe cases
For unsecured loans, lenders may initiate legal recovery action if the borrower does not repay despite repeated reminders and notices. RBI’s framework also recognises restructuring as a tool where lenders may modify repayment terms for borrowers facing financial difficulty, subject to applicable conditions.
What is Overdue in CIBIL? How Does It Affect Your Credit Score?
In a CIBIL report, overdue refers to the unpaid amount on a loan or credit card that has crossed the due date. Your CIBIL report may show details such as:
Current balance
Amount overdue, if any
Date of last payment
Payment history
Days Past Due, also called DPD
CIBIL’s report guide explains that account information includes the lender name, type of credit facility, date opened, current balance, amount overdue and month-on-month payment record of up to 36 months.
What is DPD in CIBIL?
DPD, or Days Past Due, shows how many days your payment was delayed.
DPD status
Meaning
000
Payment made on time
STD
Standard account status
30
Payment delayed by around 30 days
60
Payment delayed by around 60 days
90
Payment delayed by around 90 days
XXX
Data not reported by the lender for that month
A clean repayment record with ‘000’ or ‘STD’ is generally better for your credit profile. Repeated late payments can reduce lender confidence and affect your future credit eligibility.
What is the Difference Between Overdue Loan and NPA?
An overdue loan and NPA are related, but they are not the same.
Parameter
Overdue Loan
NPA
Meaning
A loan payment has crossed the due date
A loan account is classified as non-performing after prolonged non-payment
Timeline
Starts after missing the payment due date
Generally applies when dues remain overdue for more than 90 days, depending on loan type and RBI norms
Severity
Early warning stage
Serious default stage
Credit impact
Can affect credit score
Has a much more serious impact on credit profile
Lender action
Reminders, penalties, follow-ups
Stronger recovery action, provisioning and legal steps may follow
RBI’s prudential norms refer to the 90-day overdue threshold for NPA classification in several loan contexts.
How to Clear an Overdue Loan
If your loan is already overdue, act quickly. The earlier you resolve it, the easier it is to control penalties and credit damage.
Step 1: Check the exact overdue amount
Log in to your lender’s app, website or customer portal and check:
Missed EMI amount
Late payment charges
Penal interest
Bounce charges
Total payable amount
Next EMI due date
Step 2: Pay the overdue EMI immediately
If you have the funds, clear the overdue amount at the earliest. This prevents further penalties and reduces the chance of the account slipping into a more serious overdue bucket.
Step 3: Speak to your lender if you cannot pay fully
If you are facing a genuine financial emergency, contact your lender before ignoring calls or reminders. Explain your situation and ask whether options such as restructuring, revised repayment schedule or partial payment are available.
Step 4: Avoid taking multiple new loans
Taking fresh loans to pay old EMIs can increase your debt burden if not planned carefully. Use this option only after comparing interest rates, processing fees and repayment capacity.
Step 5: Consider debt consolidation
If you have multiple overdue payments across loans or credit cards, a debt consolidation loan may help combine them into one EMI. This can simplify repayment, but only if the new EMI is affordable.
Step 6: Fix your monthly budget
Cut non-essential expenses temporarily and prioritise overdue repayment. For example, reduce discretionary spends such as shopping, subscriptions or travel until the overdue amount is cleared.
Step 7: Track your CIBIL report
After repayment, check your credit report after a reasonable update cycle. If the overdue amount still shows despite full payment, raise a dispute with the credit bureau and lender.
You can add this section after “Example: How a Missed EMI Can Grow” or before “How to Clear an Overdue Loan”:
Real-Life Example: How a Loan Becomes Overdue
Let’s understand this with an example.
Rahul took a personal loan for a medical emergency. His EMI was ₹9,500, due on the 5th of every month. For the first few months, he paid on time. However, in one month, his salary was delayed, and he did not have enough balance in his bank account on the EMI date.
Here’s what happened:
Timeline
What happened
5th of the month
EMI auto-debit failed due to insufficient balance
6th–10th
Rahul received SMS and app reminders from the lender
After a few days
Late payment fee and bounce charges were added
Next EMI cycle
Rahul still had to pay the missed EMI along with the new EMI
If delayed further
The missed payment could reflect in his credit report and affect future loan eligibility
So, instead of paying only ₹9,500, Rahul may now have to pay the missed EMI along with late charges, bounce charges and the next EMI if he delays the payment further.
This example shows why it is important to clear an overdue EMI as early as possible. Even if you miss the due date due to a genuine reason, paying it quickly can help reduce extra charges and limit the impact on your credit profile.
Tips to Avoid Overdue Loan Payments
Avoiding overdue payments is easier than repairing your credit profile later. Here are practical tips to stay on track.
1. Choose the loan amount wisely
Do not borrow the maximum amount just because you are eligible. Choose an EMI that fits comfortably into your monthly income.
A useful rule is:
Keep your total EMIs within a manageable share of your monthly income, especially if your income varies.
2. Select the right repayment tenure
A shorter tenure means higher EMI. A longer tenure means lower EMI but higher total interest. Choose a tenure that balances affordability and total repayment cost.
3. Set up auto-debit
Auto-debit can reduce the risk of missing EMI due dates. However, make sure your bank account has enough balance before the debit date.
4. Maintain an EMI buffer
Keep at least one EMI amount as a backup in your savings account. This can help during salary delays, emergencies or temporary cash-flow issues.
5. Track payment reminders
Use calendar alerts, mobile reminders or lender app notifications to remember EMI dates.
6. Avoid over-borrowing
Do not take multiple loans at the same time unless necessary. Too many EMIs can make your monthly budget stressful.
7. Communicate early with your lender
If you know you may miss an EMI, contact your lender in advance. Early communication is always better than delayed response after multiple missed payments.
8. Review your credit report regularly
Check whether your loan payments are being reported correctly. CIBIL notes that repayment consistency is evaluated through markers such as DPD and account status.
How to Check Your Loan Overdue Amount Online
You can check your loan overdue amount online through:
Lender’s mobile app
Open the loan section and check EMI status, overdue amount and payment options.
Lender’s website or customer portal
Log in with your registered mobile number, email ID or loan account number.
Monthly loan statement
Download your statement to view unpaid EMIs, charges and outstanding balance.
SMS or email alerts
Lenders often send overdue reminders with the payable amount and due date.
Customer support
Contact the lender’s helpline if you need a breakup of overdue charges.
Credit report
Your credit report may show overdue amount, current balance and repayment history, but it may not always reflect real-time updates.
Example: How a Missed EMI Can Grow
Let’s say your EMI is ₹9,000 and you miss the due date.
Timeline
What may happen
Day 1–7
Reminder from lender, overdue status begins
Day 8–30
Late fee or penal interest may apply
Day 30+
Delay may start reflecting more seriously in payment history
Day 60+
Credit impact may worsen if unpaid
Day 90+
Account may move closer to NPA classification depending on loan type and lender reporting
This is why paying early, even after missing the due date, is better than delaying further.
Borrower Rights to Remember
Even if your loan is overdue, recovery must follow fair practices. RBI’s digital lending directions and broader regulatory framework focus on transparency, regulated lending practices and borrower protection in digital credit.
As a borrower, you should:
Ask for a written breakup of overdue charges
Keep payment receipts and lender communication
Avoid paying unofficial recovery agents in cash
Use official payment channels only
Raise a complaint if you face harassment or unfair recovery practices
Final Takeaway
A loan overdue is not just a missed EMI; it is an early warning sign that can affect your credit score, increase repayment costs and reduce your chances of getting future credit on favourable terms. The best approach is to clear overdue dues quickly, communicate with your lender if you are facing financial stress and set up systems that help you avoid future delays.
If you need funds for planned or urgent expenses, choose a lender that offers a transparent digital process, flexible repayment options and easy EMI tracking. With Fibe, eligible borrowers can apply for a personal loan of up to ₹10 lakhs with quick disbursal, no end-use restriction and convenient repayment management through the Fibe Personal Loan App. Download the app or register on the website to get started.
FAQs on Loan Overdue Payment
What leads to loans becoming overdue?
A loan may become overdue due to:
Missing the EMI due date
Insufficient bank balance for auto-debit
Salary delay
Job loss
Medical or family emergency
Poor budgeting
Multiple active loans
Technical failure in payment processing
What are the negative effects of a loan overdue?
A loan overdue can lead to late payment charges, penal interest, lender reminders, credit score impact and difficulty getting future loans. In secured loans, continued default may also put the pledged collateral at risk.
Does an overdue loan impact my CIBIL score?
Yes. An overdue loan can negatively impact your CIBIL score because repayment history is a key part of your credit profile. Delays may appear in your report through DPD and overdue amount details.
What happens if a borrower does not repay a loan?
If a borrower does not repay a loan, the lender may send reminders, charge penalties, report the delay to credit bureaus and issue formal notices. In secured loans, the lender may recover dues through the collateral after following the legal process. In unsecured loans, the lender may take legal recovery action.
How can I remove the overdue remark from CIBIL?
You can address an overdue remark by:
Paying the overdue amount
Continuing timely EMI payments
Checking whether the lender updates the payment status
Raising a dispute if the report shows incorrect overdue data
Maintaining a clean repayment record going forward
Correct information generally cannot be removed simply because it is negative. However, incorrect or outdated reporting can be disputed with the lender and credit bureau.
How do I check my loan overdue amount online?
You can check your overdue amount through your lender’s mobile app, website, loan statement, email alerts, SMS reminders or customer support. You can also review your credit report, but lender portals are usually better for real-time payable amounts.
What is the difference between overdue loan and NPA?
An overdue loan is a loan payment that has crossed its due date. An NPA, or non-performing asset, is a more serious classification generally applied when dues remain unpaid for over 90 days, depending on the type of loan and applicable norms.
What are the loan overdue charges I will have to pay?
You may have to pay late payment fees, penal interest, bounce charges, collection charges or other applicable fees. The exact charges depend on your lender’s schedule of charges and loan agreement.
Is one missed EMI a serious issue?
One missed EMI may not become a major issue if you pay it quickly. However, it can still attract late fees and may affect your repayment record if reported. Repeated missed EMIs are more serious and can harm your credit profile.
Can I get another loan if I have an overdue EMI?
It may be difficult to get another loan with an active overdue EMI. Lenders usually prefer borrowers with clean repayment records. Clear your overdue amount first and maintain timely payments before applying again.
