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  • HOW TO IDENTIFY DEBT COLLECTION SCAMS AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT

    HOW TO IDENTIFY DEBT COLLECTION SCAMS AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT

    All over the world, people keep receiving telephone calls from strangers who claim to be debt collectors, and these said debt collectors seek to receive loans.

    These calls are often for loans that customers have never obtained or for loans they have acquired, but for sums that they do not owe.

    Last year, FTC filed a lawsuit against over 15 groups operating a fake debt collection scheme. Statistics have proven that one of the most predominant frauds of 2018, 2017 and 2019 has been of debt collection scams.

    You need a way to decipher between actual collection agencies and fraudulent ones if you’ve been getting debt collector phone calls or letters, so you don’t get scammed.

    TYPES OF DEBT COLLECTION SCAMS

    SUSPICIOUS TELEPHONE CALLS

    Suspicious phone calls are the first stage of a debt collection scam. On the other hand, the subject can say that person is a licensed debt collector, and may or may not be a dedicated representative of a legally licensed debt collection agency.

    The “debt recovery agent” might argue that he is a representative of a DCA, a private debt solicitor’s business, or even a government agency when he is none of these.

    If a person refuses to pay or doesn’t pay as soon as possible, they may threaten him/her with the seizure of property, wage garnishment, even detention. Debtors should note that these activities are unlawful and that inability to pay up loan does not mean you’d be sentenced to jail.

    HARASSING LETTERS AND EMAILS

    Debt collection scams may also consist of numerous threatening written notifications, consisting of a harsh tone, insulting words, and warnings of non-existent legal proceedings. To hide facts or present a false one, if the organization is not legitimate, it may use a different trade name. If one receives such an e-mail/letter by the creditor, he must submit a letter of debt confirmation.

    NON-LEGAL IN-HOUSE VISITS

    When a debt recovery agent visits a debtor, the debtor has to ask for the agent’s identification documents. Such an agent may be legitimate but might still try dubious means to reclaim debts owed like, using forceful means, intimidation, or asking for a bribe. A debt collector has no right to access the debtor’s property forcibly or to confiscate his personal belongings.

    Even if the agent is allowed to conduct force acts, the High Court must provide him with an official Warrant of Execution. Even if a debt collector agent is allowed to confiscate material objects, he has no right whatsoever to seize the necessary properties of the debtor.

    ADDITIONAL CHARGES

    A borrower may also be asked to pay an excessive amount of interest by a debt collector. Generally, after the creditor has moved the default case to a third-party DCA, a recovery agency has the right to seek payment from the debtor. However, suppose such an entity charges a higher amount to the debtor than the amount stated by statute, then in that case, the debtor should immediately contact the legal authorities and complain because such activities are known as scams for debt collection.

    SIGNS ITS A SCAM

    WITHHOLDS INFORMATION FROM YOU

    A debt collector would tell you details such as the creditor’s name, the amount owed, and that the debt collector may need to seek proof of the debt if you dispute the debt. If during initial communication with you, the debt collector does not provide this information, they are obliged to give you a written notice within five days of that initial contact.

    PRESSURES YOU TO PAY BY MONEY TRANSFER OR PREPAID CARD.

    Scammers prefer these payment methods because they could be untraceable, and having your money back may be challenging for you.

    SAYS THEY WILL TELL YOUR FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND EMPLOYER

    By threatening to expose your debts to family, friends, colleagues, or employers, some scammers can attempt to get you to pay. Usually, without your permission, a debt collector is not permitted to tell other individuals about your debt. To try to reach you, they can only ask others about your whereabouts.

    YOU DON’T RECOGNIZE THE DEBT THAT THE PERSON CLAIMS YOU OWE MONEY

    To make sure the debt is one that you owe, ask questions. Any debt collector who approaches you alleging that you owe a debt or any amount of money is required by law to inform you of some debt details. That data must include:

    • The creditor’s name
    • The amount owed

    Tell the caller that you would give a written request to the debt collector and “dispute” the debt whether you feel that you do not owe the debt or that it is not even your debt. You may also give the debt collector a written request to get further debt information.

    YOU CAN’T FIND ANYTHING ON THE INTERNET WHEN YOU LOOK UP THE PHONE NUMBER

    Searching the internet for their phone number is one way of testing if a debt collector is a scam. You’ll also find web sites where other customers have posted on the debt collector and the organization they are collecting for.

    If you look up a phone number and get no results, or if you see people commenting that the business is a scam, then you know that you want to avoid sending any payment to that business.

    ASKS YOU FOR SENSITIVE PERSONAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION

    They’ll ask you for sensitive personal financial information such as your bank account, your Routing numbers, or Social Security numbers. If you are sure they’re not real, then you should never give your personal financial details to them. Your data can be used by scammers to commit identity theft.

    CALLS YOU AT INCONVENIENT TIMES

    At an odd time or place they know is inconvenient for you, debt collectors will not contact you. If you get a call before 8 a.m. and after 9 p.m., you might be dealing with a scammer.

    THE DEBT COLLECTOR ASKS YOU FOR INFORMATION THEY SHOULD ALREADY HAVE

    When creditors hire debt collectors, they give them a certain amount of information about you. Your name, address, date of the birth, account number, and some or all of your Social Security number often include that.

    BE WARY OF A DEBT COLLECTOR WHO ASKS FOR ANY OF THIS INFORMATION

    Not every fake debt collector attempts to trick you into submitting a debt payment. Many seek private data that they can use to commit fraud or identity theft, a method known as “phishing.”

    THE CALLER DEMANDS IMMEDIATE PAYMENT

    A certain amount of coercion can be used by most debt collectors to persuade you to repay the debt. But be wary of, particularly they use scare tactics, a debt collector appears to use an extraordinary amount of leverage to get you to pay instantly.

    WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK IT’S SCAM

    If you think that a caller may be a fake debt collector:

    ASK FOR A CALLBACK NUMBER

    You can request the caller’s name, business name, street address, and a callback number if you’re uncomfortable providing any information. Before sharing any personal information, you can use this information to check that they are not a scammer. If a caller refuses to send any of this data to you, do not pay!

    Also, it could be a scam if you call back and the business doesn’t respond as the name they gave you, or it’s a non-functioning number.

    STOP SPEAKING WITH THE CALLER

    Send a letter requesting that the caller stop calling you if you have the caller’s address, and keep a copy of your files. By regulation, if you ask them to in writing, actual debt collectors must stop calling you.

    DO NOT GIVE THE CALLER PERSONAL FINANCIAL OR OTHER SENSITIVE INFORMATION

    Until you know who you’re dealing with, never give out or confirm personal financial or other confidential details, such as your bank account, credit card, or social security number.

    Scam artists can use your data to commit identity theft, such as fake debt collectors, charging your current credit cards, opening new credit cards, checking or savings accounts, writing fraudulent cheques, or taking out loans on your behalf.

    CONTACT YOUR CREDITOR

    If the debt is legitimate – but you think the collector may not be – contact your creditor about the calls. Share the information you have about the suspicious calls and find out who, if anyone, the creditor has authorized to collect the debt.

    If the debt is legal, but you think the person trying to receive it is not the genuine borrower or creditor, then you should notify the creditor about the calls. Share the details you have about the suspicious calls and find out if the creditor had sent anybody or any agency to collect debts from you.

    REPORT THE CALL

    Contact the FTC and your state Attorney General’s office with details about suspicious callers. In addition to the federal FDCPA, several states have their own debt collection rules. The office of your Attorney General will assist you in assessing your rights under the law of your country.

    Conclusion

    The lender can also employ a debt collection service to try to get you to pay if you owe money. So, some of the debt collectors are actual, and they operate on behalf of the business you owe money. Real debt collectors do have to follow the rule, however. And as a customer, you’ve got rights. And to stay out of scams, you should take safety precautions.

  • HOW TO MAKE A PAYMENT TO DEBT COLLECTION AGENCY

    HOW TO MAKE A PAYMENT TO DEBT COLLECTION AGENCY

    If you have been contacted for the first time by a debt collector, or you’re concerned that a collector may contact you soon because you’ve fallen behind on your bills, you probably have a lot of questions and you’re likely anxious about this method. Before going further, let’s agree on one thing: Unpaid debts can be always stressful and confusing. Also, you may not even sure how your debt ended up with a debt collection agency. So, it is always crucial to look beyond the potentially intimidating letters and phone calls to understand what’s really happening — and find a solution that works for you. Change your life with the lord of ocean slot free.

    Hence, to give you a better idea about how to make a payment to a debt collection agency, in this article I have mentioned the basic steps which can help smooth your interactions with debt collectors and make the process less stressful.

    Verify The Debt That You Owe

    Do not make any payment to a collection agency until you have verified that the debt actually belongs to you. Check your records to make sure the quoted balance is right, and contact your actual debtor to make sure you are dealing with the true collection agency. For suppose, if you suspect that you are being contacted by a scammer, you can file a complaint with the Jurisdictional Police Station. If you do not agree with the amount demanded by the collection agency, you may dispute it under the FDCPA, and an investigation will be undertaken to check whether the debt is yours or not.

    Check the statute of limitations in your State

    Every state has its own statute of limitations, which ensures that the debt is beyond the time by which it can be legally obtained. However, in certain situations, if you contact the collection agency or make a partial payment you can reactivate the debt. Confirm this time frame before taking any further steps to offset debt in collection.

    Set up a payment plan

    Once you know that the debt is correct and legitimate, it’s time to figure out the plan for payment. Here are three of the best ways to pay off your debt in collections:

    • Offer a Lump Sum Amount

    Your first choice to pay a collection agency would be to pay the entire amount that you owed. It’s not only an easy way to settle your debt, but also makes you eligible for new financial assistance from lenders. That gives a quicker boost to your credit score and does not require negotiation. The downside to making a lump sum payment in collections on your debt is you need the entire amount of cash. If you do not have the money to pay from the savings, consider taking out a debt consolidation loan.

    • Start a Payment Plan

    Many collection companies are able to set up a payment plan that would help pay off a loan within a defined time period. However, getting all the information in a written agreement is crucial before making any payment. Once the payment plan comes to an end, the account is marked as closed on your credit report.

    • Make a Payment

    If you are paying to collection agencies, there are a few thumb rules to follow when making payments for debt collection agency. Firstly, don’t allow debt collection agencies to automatically debit from your bank account. Any form of electronic payment will make your bank account available to a collector. You may be asked by the collector to pay electronically or through ECS but you must refuse.

    Once they have access to your account, they might be able to take more money than they are entitled to. Instead, make Approved Fund transfers. Your funds are assured when you pay in that way. That means there will be no chance of rejected payments or bounced checks.

    • Keep Records

    Once you have made a payment, it is always recommended to keep records of any correspondence throughout the entire collections process. If an agreement is made over the phone or any other adjustments done to an agreement, you can request a copy of the information in written communication.

    Let’s See How Debt Ends Up In Collection!

    In general, a debt goes to collection when it has been unpaid for an extended time period. Once a bill reaches a certain amount of delinquency, it may be sold to a collection agency by the original creditor or simply decided to hire to collect the balance on its behalf. The time frame for an outstanding bill going through collections typically ranges from 90 to 180 days, which is normally based on the type of debt that’s owed.

    What Will Happen If You Don’t Pay Off Your Debt In Collection?

    Any late payment to a creditor over 30 days could appear as a negative entry on your credit part, with subsequent entries tackled every further 30 days of non-payment. Each of these entries can damage your credit score. If the debt is passed to collections the account will be flagged with the status of the collection. Accounts in the collection remain on your credit report for as long as seven years from the date of initial delinquency.

    Debt Collection is a legitimate activity. If you are approached by a debt collector it is not usually the beginning of an abusive relationship. Many collectors are good people who are only trying to do their jobs and are going to work with you to develop a plan to help you repay your debt, whether that means a full payment, a series of monthly payments, or even a reduced settlement.

  • A BRIEF OVERVIEW ON DEBT COLLECTION LAWS

    A BRIEF OVERVIEW ON DEBT COLLECTION LAWS

    Debt collection laws are the main regulators of the actions and practices that are undertaken by Debt Collection Agencies, Creditors, and other debt recovery agents. In order to ensure a fair debt collection procedure, the legal actions and pre-trial proceedings must comply with state and country laws. If the Debt Collection Agency (DCA) works locally, it has to comply with the laws of the country. If the DCA represents international debt collection, it must consider state law along with transnational EU rules, which will result in a fair and legal process for cross-border debt recovery.

    Thanks to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, as this law sets down a specific set of rules that should be followed by third-party debt collectors while contacting customers about a debt that was sent to collections. The debts which are covered under this law include medical bills, credit card bills and auto loans.

    To help you understand about debt collection laws and your debt collection rights, here are some essential guidelines that must be followed when a debt collector approaches you about unpaid debts.

    Can a Debt Collector Contact You at Work?

    In certain situations, debt collectors may likely to call you when you’re in office. But, if you ask them not to call, then they must stop. If suppose, a debt collector calls you at workplace and your boss picks up the call, it is not permissible for the debt collector to contact your office again until your boss grants them permission. Also, you can send them a written letter asking– not to contact you while you’re in office.  At this point, a debt collector will only call you to inform that your creditor is suing you or taking some other action against you.

    At What Time, a Debt Collector Can Call You?

    Debt collectors can contact you legally at a reasonable time which may vary according to state, but most commonly between 8 a.m. to 9.00 p.m. During these hours, if you are working and have not taken action to stop them, debt collectors will call you when you’re in office. Debt collectors can contact you legally via email, fax, mobile number or regular mail. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act does not specify any constraints on receiving text messages, as text messages did not exist at the time of the act passed in 1977.

    Is A Debt Collector Allowed to Threaten You?

    Debt collectors are not allowed to threaten you. Threatening you is regarded as harassment and is explicitly forbidden by the FTC explicitly. Furthermore, they can’t subject you to threats of violence. Also, they cannot try to seize the ownership of your property or arrest you. And they can not threaten to publish anything about your debt except to a credit reporting agency.

    How Much Amount a Debt Collector Can Ask You to Pay?

    In general, a debt collector can’t ask you more money than you owe. When you receive a written debt validation notice from the debt collector, the notice must include the particular amount that you’re owed. In legal terms, a debt collector is not entitled to say you owe more money.

    If you believe that the amount of money you are required to pay is not the right amount, send a letter to the debt collection agency notifying it to verify within 30 days. Then the agency must check the debt in writing and can’t contact you again until it is done.

    What to Do if a Debt Collector Breaks Debt Collection Laws?

    If a debt collector violates any laws while approaching you about a debt, you should report that debt collector to your state attorney general’s office, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau or the Federal Trade Commission. Most of the states have their own b2b debt collection laws, and a debt collector who violates the Federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act could also be in violation of state collection law. Furthermore, the state attorney general will inform you about additional local rights that you may have.

    Hiring an Attorney

    You are the one who needs to stand up for your debt collection rights. Don’t let a debt collector intimidate you with illegal tactics, or harass you. Dealing with a debt collector who has extensive knowledge of the debt collection rules can also be stressful. If you need help or advice please consider hiring an attorney.

    As per your debt collection rights, the debt collection agency must contact your attorney who is hired by you. So if you’ve got an attorney handling the debt, you should tell the debt collector to communicate with him/her. You need not worry about the debt collector’s frequent calls until and unless your attorney grants them permission to call you again.

    In general, there are certain legal restrictions on how debt collectors can deal with you and how they can protect you from misleading practices. To avoid unwanted calls and other types of interaction you can invoke those restrictions.

  • SARFAESI ACT

    SARFAESI ACT

    SARFAESI ACT

    The financial sector is one of the pivots of any developing country. It is crucial for India too in accelerating the growth of its economy.

    The slow rate of recovery on defaulting loans and the extremely high levels of nonperforming assets of banks and financial institutions were matters of pressing concern and eventually led to the formation of a reform. The Narasimham Committee I and II and the Andhyarujina Committee, constituted by the Central Government, brought about modifications in the legal system in accordance with these concerns.

    The Committees made suggestions to form new legislation for securitization and empowering banks and financial institutions to gain possession of the securities and to sell them without any intervention of the courts.

    The Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act, 2002, is legislation that aids financial institutions and banks in auctioning or selling both residential and commercial properties in order to recover bad loans. This essentially means that the Act was created primarily to address the issue of Non-Performing Assets or bad assets, via a variety of mechanisms.

    THE ACT PROVIDES THREE METHODS FOR RECOVERY OF NPAS, VIZ:

    (i) Securitization
    Regarding NPA management, securitization is the process of converting loans into marketable securities.

    (ii) Asset Reconstruction
    Asset reconstruction is the process of transforming a bad or non-performing asset into a performing asset. The mechanism of asset reconstruction involves several steps, which include the purchasing of bad assets by a dedicated asset reconstruction company (ARC), financing of the bad asset conversion into good assets using bonds, debentures, securities, cash, etc., among other steps.

    (iii) Enforcement of Security without the intervention of the Court.
    The Act empowers the financial institutions to take possession or auction the securities without any intervention of the Court

    OBJECTIVES OF SARFAESI ACT

    1. Swift and efficient recovery of Non-Performing Assets of financial institutions
    2. Setting the foundation and architecture of the legal framework required for securitization activities
    3. Granting financial institutions and banks the ability to secure interests without any intervention from the Courts
    4. Allows banks and financial institutions to auction the properties when the borrower is unable to repay the loan
    DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

    e-Form CHG-1 or e-Form CHG-9 is required to be filed for the application of
    a.  Registration of creation
    b.  Modification of charge (other than those related to debentures), including particulars of modification of charge by Asset Reconstruction Company in terms of Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Securities Interest Act, 2002 [SARFAESI]

    The documents in this context are as follows:

    i.  Particulars of charge
    ii.  Hypothecation Deed
    iii.  An Instrument created for the charge
    iv.  Certificate of registration
    v.  Copy of the instrument – creating or modifying the charge
    vi.  Sanction Letter

    In case of any e-Form to be digitally signed, either of the following is required:

    a. DSC of the charge holder
    b. Director Identification Number [DIN] of the Director
    c. Permanent Account Number [PAN] of the manager, CEO, CFO
    d. Membership Number of the Company Secretary

    The SARFAESI Act aims to preserve the right to property of the borrower by maintaining that a proper, thorough process needs to be followed before the borrower’s property is disposed of. The underlying notion is that the financial institutions do not abuse the wide powers provided to them and that the cases of bad loans are rectified quickly and efficiently.

    Frequently Asked Questions:

    1) What are the main objectives of the SARFAESI Act?

    The primary goals are:

    1. To enable efficient and rapid recovery of NPAs for financial institutions.
    2. To allow banks to take possession of and sell secured assets (residential or commercial) when a borrower defaults.
    3. To provide a legal framework for securitization and asset reconstruction activities.

    2) What are the three methods of recovery under this Act?

    The Act provides three specific mechanisms for managing bad loans:

    Enforcement of Security Interest: Taking possession of the security/asset without court intervention.

    Securitization: Converting loans into marketable securities.

    Asset Reconstruction: Transforming non-performing assets into performing ones through dedicated companies (ARCs).

    3) Does the borrower have any protection under this law?

    Yes. The SARFAESI Act aims to balance the rights of the lender and the borrower. Banks must follow a strict legal process before disposing of a property, and borrowers have the right to approach the Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) if they feel the process is being misused.

    4) How does Kenstone Capital help with SARFAESI enforcement?

    Kenstone Capital provides a holistic approach to debt recovery. We assist secured creditors (banks and financial institutions) by:

    Utilizing technology and automated processes to ensure maximum efficiency and an 85% success rate.

    Providing a highly qualified legal team to manage end-to-end enforcement steps.

    Deploying experienced physical possession teams.

  • EFFECTS OF LOAN SETTLEMENT ON YOUR CIBIL SCORE

    EFFECTS OF LOAN SETTLEMENT ON YOUR CIBIL SCORE

    Loan settlement typically has a negative impact on your credit score. It may depend on many factors such as the current condition of your credit, the reporting practices of your creditors, the size of the debts being settled, and a multitude of other variables. In general, the goal of loan settlement is to get rid of some of your debt, particularly if you can’t afford to pay the entire outstanding. Have more fun with the lord of ocean free play.

    Before going further, we need to know, what exactly “loan settlement” means?

    To provide a better understanding on the concept of the loan settlement, here I am going to explain with a context. Let’s say you have taken a loan from a lender. Now, because of an illness, accident, work loss, or some other circumstance you are actually unable to make repayment. In this scenario, you’ll tell the lender of your condition and ask them to offer some time off and reduction in the loan amount before you settle.

    In such cases, you could be offered a one-time payment option by the lender where you take some time off and settle the reduced loan in one go. As you have been given some time and reduction, you would readily accept this offer. When you settle the loan account, the status of the loan will be reported as ‘settled’ in the credit report and not as “closed” which is a negative remark.

    HOW IS THAT PROCESSED BY A LENDER?

    If you have genuine issues and are finding it hard to make the repayment, the lender may provide a non-repayment period of 6 months. You will only be given this option if you agree to settle the loan through one time payment method. The lender must write-off a certain amount so that borrower can settle the loan in one go. The amount to be written-off is based on the extent of the situation and the repayment capabilities of the borrower.

    HOW THE LOAN SETTLEMENT WOULD IMPACT CIBIL SCORE?

    When a lender decides to write-off the borrower’s debt, it will be reported to the CIBIL bureau & other rating agencies. Later, they will interpret this as a negative remark. In addition, it will not be considered by CIBIL as a closed account; rather, it will be referred to as resolved/settled. Furthermore, if a loan status is documented as settled, the borrower’s credit score may fall by 75-100 points and stays in the CIBIL report for the next 7-8 years. Therefore, if the borrower seeks further financial assistance or applies for a new loan, the lender will straightly reject the loan application because of the settled status of past loan account and low CIBIL Score.

    HOW BORROWERS CAN TACKLE THIS?

    As a borrower, if you’re facing difficulty in repaying your loan due to reasons like unemployment, severe medical condition, or due to other uncertainties then you can choose to settle the loan account. Once your financial situation stabilizes you can approach us and we can help you close the settled account and improve your CIBIL score.

    Otherwise you can liquidate your savings or investments to pay off the outstanding loan amount completely. You can also think of any other possible methods to raise money enough to close the loan account. It is highly recommended to consider ‘settlement’ as the last option.

    Also, you can request the lender to extend your repayment term, re-evaluate the monthly installment structure, so that you can make regular monthly payments.

    Worry not if you have settled the loan account. It can still be fixed and the CIBIL records can be updated from “Settled” to “Closed”.

    Points to be Noted

    Repaying the loan is a big responsibility because it’s the public money and if you are irregular it will hurt your peace of mind as well. Thus, here are some of the points to be noted before applying for a loan.

    • Apply for the loan as per your financial requirements.
    • Make sure that you have an alternate means to repay the loan.
    • Ensure your credit capability is never misused.
    • Most importantly, remember that the settled status of the loan stays in your credit report for the next 7 years and blocks you from getting a loan for the period.

    Are you looking to improve your CIBIL Score? contact us

  • THE MOST COMMON MYTHS ASSOCIATED WITH CREDIT SCORE

    THE MOST COMMON MYTHS ASSOCIATED WITH CREDIT SCORE

    Due to a lack of adequate knowledge, most people often find it difficult to differentiate the validity and applicability of myths about the CIBIL scores and general rumors. However, many credit score misconceptions still surround the CIBIL Score, which needs to be addressed to help you understand the fundamental factors that decide your actual credit health. Understanding credit score myths and facts is the first step toward financial stability. Hence, here is a compiled list to debunk credit score misinformation and provide a reality check on common credit score myths.

    Checking Your Credit Report Damages Your Score

    One of the most common myths about credit scores is that looking at your own report hurts you. In reality, checking your own report is a soft inquiry and wouldn’t hurt your CIBIL score at all. The confusion often stems from the difference between a soft inquiry and a hard inquiry. When multiple lenders inquire about your credit information within a short span of time (hard inquiries), it could damage your score and give the prospective lender the wrong impression. In fact, it is a good practice to keep track of credit report errors by checking your score once in three to six months.

    A Poor Credit Score Stays Forever

    A credit score is a snapshot of your payment history and repayment behavior. Once you get a low ranking, it doesn’t mean it will stay with you for a lifetime. In fact, you can attempt to improve your CIBIL score standings by following all the good practices and guidelines. Furthermore, you can approach professional credit repair services designed for a credit repair individual to get more insights on how to fix your profile and build a positive credit history.

    Your Credit Score Depends on Your Assets and Annual Income

    In general, your CIBIL score depends on how many credit accounts you have and how well you handle them, not on your annual income and assets. For example, if your annual income is ₹10 lakh but you have never used a credit card or taken a loan, you may not have a score at all. In reference, you may have a ₹5 lakh annual income and a well-managed credit card with a low credit utilization ratio, which will lead to a strong credit score.

    When You Get Married, Your Scores Merge

    Among the various credit score myths, the idea of “joint scores” is very common. In fact, there is no such thing as merging credit scores. Whatever your marital status is, scores are calculated according to individual financial history. Joint bank accounts won’t affect your record, whereas joint loan accounts will impact your individual score.

    Debit Card Impacts Your CIBIL Score

    Debit cards don’t help build your credit history. Because a debit card is a tool for accessing your savings account balance and does not involve borrowing, any debit card purchases will not be considered when calculating your score. Credit is most associated with borrowed funds and their timely repayment, not your existing bank balance.

    Applying for Multiple Loans Damages Your CIBIL Score

    Many people assume that applying for loans from several lenders increases the probability of approval. However, every time you apply, the lender performs a “hard inquiry,” which adversely affects your CIBIL ratings. To maintain good credit health, ensure that you do not apply for loans from different lenders at the same time.

    Zero Credit History is Ideal

    Not exactly. When you’re a first-time borrower, you won’t have a credit ranking. Usually, lenders look for responsible credit behavior and a proven track record rather than zero credit history. A clean history of managing debt is the ideal scenario for loan approval.

    Paying off delinquent Debts Will Remove the Transaction from Your Credit Report

    Do not be under the misconception that paying off a delinquent debt would erase the transaction from your history. While debt recovery is a positive step, the record of the delinquency will remain within your credit history for years. These entries show lenders how you have handled your debts in the past and influence the final approval of your loan.

    Approaching a CIBIL Score Repair Agency may Improve Your Score

    When searching for ways to debunk credit score myths, you may find various “credit repair agencies.” Some people mistake these for firms that can fix a low score overnight for a fee.

    However, a legitimate credit repair agency helps you file disputes if you find credit report errors. These mistakes can range from a misspelling of your name to an incorrect transaction. If you don’t have the resources to dispute these mistakes yourself, professional credit repair services supporting both a credit repair business can correct those errors on your behalf to help improve CIBIL score accuracy.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    1. Does checking my own credit score lower it?

    No, checking your own credit score is considered a soft inquiry, which has no impact on your score. It is only when lenders check your report for a loan application (hard inquiry) that your score might experience a minor, temporary dip. Regularly monitoring your report is actually a great way to maintain credit health.

    2. Can credit repair services instantly fix my CIBIL score?

    No agency can “delete” legitimate negative information or provide an overnight fix. Professional credit repair services work by identifying credit report errors, such as incorrect personal details or wrongly reported defaults, and helping you dispute them with the credit bureaus to improve CIBIL score accuracy.

    3. Does my salary or bank balance affect my credit score?

    This is one of the most common credit score misconceptions. Your annual income, assets, and bank balance are not included in your credit report. Your score is primarily calculated based on your payment history, total debt, and credit utilization, not how much money you earn.

    4. Will closing an old credit card help debunk credit score myths and improve my rating?

    Actually, closing an old credit card can often hurt your score. It reduces your total available credit (increasing your credit utilization ratio) and shortens your credit history. Keeping old accounts open and active is generally better for your long-term credit health.

    5. How long does a late payment stay on my credit report?

    Even after debt recovery or paying off a delinquent account, the record of the late payment typically remains on your credit report for up to seven years. However, its impact on your score decreases over time as you build a more recent history of consistent, on-time payments.

    6. Do debit cards help in building a CIBIL score?

    No. Since debit cards use your own deposited funds and do not involve borrowing, they do not contribute to your credit history. To improve your CIBIL score, you must manage credit-based products like credit cards or loans responsibly.

  • CIBIL REGISTRATION AND LOGIN PROCESS FOR INDIVIDUALS, BUSINESSES & COMPANIES

    CIBIL REGISTRATION AND LOGIN PROCESS FOR INDIVIDUALS, BUSINESSES & COMPANIES

    Most of the banks and financial institutions trust CIBIL as the most prominent credit reporting agency. To access CIBIL report and CIBIL score, one has to sign up with CIBIL on the website of Credit Information Bureau India Ltd (CIBIL). The CIBIL agency provides the credit score for free once a year and both companies and individuals are able to access their scores and reports via separate CIBIL login processes. Companies are referred to as ‘CIBIL Members’ in CIBIL commercial login terms, while individuals are referred to as ‘CIBIL Users.’

    CIBIL REGISTRATION PROCESS FOR INDIVIDUALS

    Individuals who want to register with CIBIL – follow the below-mentioned steps:

    • Visit https://cibil.com.
    • Then click the ‘Get Your CIBIL Score’ button to select a plan you need.
    • Later, enter your personal details such as name, email address, government ID number, and mobile number to ‘Create Your Account.’
    • Then click on ‘Accept & Continue’ to ‘Verify your Identity’.
    • Once you have authenticated, go to the ‘Payment’ section to make payment for the subscription you have selected.
    • After completing payment, you are successfully registered with CIBIL.

    CIBIL REGISTRATION PROCESS FOR BUSINESSES & COMPANIES

    Companies & Businesses who want to register with CIBIL – follow the below-mentioned steps:

    • Visit https://cibilrank.cibil.com/
    • Enter your company or business details such as company name, type of business, ID type, ID value, GSTN value, registered office address, state, city, PIN, and the contact details of the authorized signatory.
    • Upon entering the details, click on the ‘Proceed’ button.
    • Make the payment of Rs.3,000 via net banking or credit/debit card.
    • Later, a unique CIBIL registration ID and payment transaction ID will be sent to your mentioned email address.
    • Then, Login with your credentials to access your business or company account.
    • In addition, you can also download the form and do the above-mentioned process in offline and send it to the below mentioned postal address or the email address:

    TransUnion CIBIL Limited,

    One Indiabulls Centre,

    Tower 2A, 19th Floor, Senapati Bapat Marg,

    Elphinstone Road, Mumbai – 400 013

    Tel: 61404300

    Email:info@cibil.com

    CIBIL LOGIN PROCESS FOR INDIVIDUALS

    Individuals, who want to login with CIBIL – follow, the below mentioned steps:

    • Visit CIBIL website & Click on the ‘Get Your CIBIL Score’
    • Then click on ‘Member Login’ to get the login page.
    • Later, enter your username and password to log in to your account.
    • Further, click on the ‘Enter’ button to land into your dashboard.

    CIBIL LOGIN PROCESS FOR COMPANIES

    Companies, who want to login with CIBIL – follow, the below mentioned steps:

    • Visit the CIBIL website.
    • Log in to your account.
    • Once, you log in with the CIBIL for the first time, you need to submit KYC documents to verify your account and deliver the CIBIL rank and report.

    WHAT IS CIBIL MSME RANK (CMR)?

    In general, CMR is a credit risk rank for MSMEs which predicts the probability of an MSME becoming NPA over the next 12 months. It refers to MSMEs with commercial aggregate borrowings ranging from Rs 10 lakh and Rs 10 crore. CMR is based on seven years of through-the-cycle (TTC) credit history data. This CMR is calculated on the basis of 24 months credit history of the MSME that is present on the bureau and the rank ranges between CMR1to CMR10, where CMR1 denotes the lowest credit risk and the probability of NPA and CMR10 denotes the highest risk and probability of NPA.

    LIST OF REQUIRED KYC DOCUMENTS TO REGISTER WITH CIBIL

    Note: While registering with CIBIL, companies and individuals must ensure that the address mentioned in the CIBIL site is matching with the address present in the government-issued KYC documents.

    Here is the list of documents that can be accepted by CIBIL:

    FOR INDIVIDUALS:

    Here are the required Identity Proofs:

    • PAN Card
    • Aadhaar Card
    • Passport
    • Voter ID Card
    • Driver’s Licence

    And here are the required Address Proofs:

    • Bank Passbook
    • Electricity Bill
    • Telephone Bill

    FOR COMPANIES:

    Here are the required Address Proofs:

    • Bank Account Statement
    • Electricity Bill
    • Telephone Bill

    HOW TO UPLOAD THESE KYC DOCUMENTS?

    • Visit the mentioned URL https://www.cibil.com/kyc-upload.
    • You will get two options—one for individuals and the other for companies. Click on the option suitable for you and click the ‘Submit button.
    • If you select the option for individuals, you have to enter details of identity proof and address proof and upload proofs for verification. Later, click on ‘Submit’ to complete the KYC uploading process.
    • If you have selected the company credit report option, you must submit KYC-compliant address proof and upload the proofs. Later, click the ‘Submit’ button to complete the KYC uploading process.

    Are you looking to improve your CIBIL score? Contact us

  • DEFAULTED ON HOME LOAN EMI? HERE IS WHAT YOU SHOULD EXPECT!

    DEFAULTED ON HOME LOAN EMI? HERE IS WHAT YOU SHOULD EXPECT!

    Given the steep property prices, it is almost inevitable to follow the Home loan route when purchasing residential property. While it may seem like a prudent choice at first, one must also remember that a Home loan is also a financial commitment. During the long duration of the tenure, unforeseen circumstances may arise which may lead to mortgage default. If a health issue or a job loss leads to inability in paying Home Loan EMIs there a few ways one can deal with the situation at hand as we will explore later here.

    What is a mortgage default?

    A loan agreement dictates that a borrower must pay a fixed amount of money to the lender every month. If a borrower is unable to keep this financial and legal agreement then we have a loan default. Ideally, banks do not press foreclosure for when you default one EMI payment. However, if you continue to default consecutive payments, for instance, till 3 months then there is an increasing probability that the bank will seize your assets.

    As per RBI guidelines, a mortgage default occurs when a borrower is 90 days or more behind in making a payment on their home loan.

    Repercussions of a Mortgage Default

    In such scenarios, legislation called SARFARESI comes into the picture. SARFAESI (Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interests Act) lays down a detailed framework by which the secured creditors can insulate assets, seize and sell the mortgaged property to recover the pending loan amount.

    Pragmatically, the banks only resort to this if there is no other viable alternative. Since banks are not in the business of properties, their propensity too is to try and resolve the issue without taking such severe measures.

    Impact on Credit Score

    Your default on home loan will get reported just like CIBIL. This leads to a negative impact wherein your credit score is adversely affected. This further impacts your ability to avail any credit facility from the financial system.

    What are your Options:

    • Grace Period

    You can request the bank to grant you a grace period stating that you have previously paid your loans on time but are unable to pay now due to a sudden situation like job loss, temporary illness, etc. An effective statement and presentation of documents might prove advantageous and the bank might consider a grace period with some penalty.

    • Cash Crunch

    If you have substantial investments in mutual funds, fixed bank deposits or other sources of immediate cash, you can consider liquidating these and pay off the bank.

    • Loan Restructuring

    If you feel that the problem is only temporary and it will resolve over time you can ask the bank to restructure your loan. Again, it is imperative that you provide relevant documents and prove your case to the bank that you are a genuine borrower and that you will be able to pay the loan if a restructuring is done.

    • Reduced EMI with Partial Payments

    In cases where your income has fallen or the EMI rates have hiked and you are unable to meet them, you can request the bank to reduce the EMI amount meanwhile extending the tenure. This is more likely to work if you are young and the loan doesn’t already extend to the retirement age.

    • Disposing of the Property Yourself

    To ensure the maximum price possible it is advisable to sell the property yourself and cooperate with the bank after you have exhausted all the other options. In case, after selling the property, you are still left with a good amount, it can come in handy for your personal use.

    Are you looking to Improve your LOW CIBIL SCORE? Contact us

  • IMPORTANCE OF BACKGROUND VERIFICATION AND TOP CHECKS

    IMPORTANCE OF BACKGROUND VERIFICATION AND TOP CHECKS

    In order to own a home, many adults resort to taking loans since, more often than not, it is the only feasible option. This lending process is an extensive one and involves filling out an intimidating stack of paperwork, which must be done. This lending process is accompanied by a necessary background check, as lenders need to ensure that the borrowers are qualified and genuine applicants.

    Since the appraisal of a home loan is a multi-tiered process, it can be a daunting task for first-time applicants. This is why it is important for applicants to understand the various parameters involved in a background check to avoid disapproval and non-eligibility.

    Meanwhile, financial institutions should undergo a thorough legal and technical check to prevent fraud and consequent losses caused by non-payment of bills by phony applicants.

    There is an array of mortgage loans that people can apply for, depending on their circumstances and privileges. But while the type of loan may differ, it is imperative for all applicants to submit to a background check. The degree and extent of the background check are determined by the type of loan being applied for. Someone applying for a gigantic loan will, needless to say, have to undergo a more severe and meticulous screening process than someone applying for a smaller amount.

    CREDIT HISTORY
    “To determine how financially reliable the applicant is, the loan companies will examine all of the applicant’s credit history, the amount of debt they have, the current bills, previous loans, history of paying bills on time, number of open accounts, credit score, etc. This credit history determines the amount of interest and the applicant’s eligibility for the loan.”

    TOP CHECKS FOR CONDUCTING BACKGROUND VERIFICATION

    IDENTITY VERIFICATION:
    The probability of identity fraud is unfortunately quite high in India. About 85% of identity frauds are related to auto loans, credit cards, and mortgages. Lately, mortgage loans have witnessed a surge in identity theft. It is therefore imperative that lenders conduct thorough and extensive background checks to prevent such dismal scenarios. Voter ID check, Aadhar card check, Passport verification, and Driving License check are among the verification processes that should be carried out.

    EMPLOYMENT VERIFICATION:
    Lenders probe and verify the applicant’s job status, which should be satisfactory and the same as claimed by the lender. This information is crucial and is considered with the applicant’s credit history to determine their chances of availing a loan.

    EDUCATION VERIFICATION:
    It’s rather common for applicants to produce fake documents in India in order to avail loans. One of the best ways to conduct thorough checks is to utilize an extensive multi-layered database. This should include verification of the various courses, certificates, institutes, years, and other pertinent information.

    ADDRESS VERIFICATION:
    In case of any default or irregularity, the physical location is the go-to place for the financial institutions and lenders to look at. This is why physical address makes for a very significant, pivotal component of the verification process. It is important to verify that the address of the document matches the actual physical address of the applicant and the duration the resident has been living there, among other things.

    POLICE VERIFICATION & CRIMINAL RECORDS CHECK
    Public databases, along with lists maintained by various police departments, need to be scrutinized to ensure that the applicant does not have any prior criminal history.

    REFERENCE CHECK
    Time must be taken out to do a valid reference check, despite it being a tedious, time-consuming process. This information is crucial to do a thorough background check.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. Why is background verification necessary for loan applicants?

    Background verification is a critical step for lenders to ensure that applicants are genuine and financially reliable. It helps financial institutions mitigate risks, prevent fraud, and avoid losses caused by non-payment or “phony” applicants.

    2. Which documents are typically used for identity verification in India?

    To combat the high rate of identity fraud, lenders typically verify official government-issued documents. These include the Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Passport, and Driving License.

    3. How does my credit history impact my loan application?

    Lenders examine your credit history, including existing debts, payment consistency, and credit score, to determine your financial reliability. This history directly influences your eligibility for the loan and the interest rate you will be offered.

    4. Why do lenders perform a physical address verification?

    Physical address verification is pivotal because, in the event of a payment default or irregularity, the lender needs a confirmed location to reach the borrower. Lenders often verify that the address on the documents matches the actual residence and check how long the applicant has lived there.

    5. Is education verification really necessary for a financial loan?

    Yes. In India, it is unfortunately common for some applicants to produce fake educational documents to bolster their perceived profile. Lenders use multi-layered databases to verify certificates, institutions, and years of study to ensure all provided information is truthful.

    6. What is involved in a criminal record check?

    Lenders scrutinize public databases and records maintained by various police departments. This ensures the applicant has no prior criminal history, which helps the bank assess the moral and legal risk of lending to that individual.

    7. Does the intensity of the background check vary by loan type?

    Yes. The degree and extent of the screening are usually determined by the loan amount and type. For instance, an applicant seeking a large mortgage will undergo a much more meticulous and severe screening process compared to someone applying for a small, short-term loan.

    8. What role do reference checks play in the verification process?

    While time-consuming, reference checks provide a qualitative layer to the verification. Speaking with references helps lenders cross-verify the applicant’s character and the claims made in their application, providing a more holistic view of the borrower.

  • IMPACT OF CREDIT SCORE ON YOUR DAILY LIFE

    IMPACT OF CREDIT SCORE ON YOUR DAILY LIFE

    Having a good credit score is essential because your credit may impact on many aspects of your life. There are certain practices that may push your credit score to the least numerical. A good credit score is not only important when applying for a new credit card; there are other ways in which it affects your daily routine. So it becomes important to maintain a good credit score throughout your life. The potential benefits of a good credit score may extend beyond debt. But in several circumstances, bad credit can affect your applications for housing, insurance premiums, and security deposits which may add roadblocks to many of the everyday necessities of life.

    Here’s a closer look at when and how a credit score may affect your everyday life:

    Buying a House

    It is no more surprising that your credit score will affect your ability to qualify for a mortgage and buy a house. In general, it is quite essential to maintain a good credit score while you are looking for a home or car loan from a bank/financial institution. A good credit score can start giving you a lower interest rate, a larger amount of loan, a longer repayment period, and a greater chance of approval of loans. In the case of a low score, your loan application can be denied, and also there will be chances of imposing higher interest rates than usual while loan approvals.

    Purchasing a car

    Although auto loans are secured by the vehicle you are looking to purchase, but still auto will check your credit to determine your eligibility. Having good credit could help you qualify for auto loans at the lowest possible rate. It may also help you apply for special financing deals during a promotional period, such as zero percent interest.

    Credit Card Limit

    If a lender knows your credit score drops regularly, he may lower your credit card limit. This is to keep you on check while you’re spending so you don’t have to pay a big bill later. If you continue to spend without considering the reduced limit, your credit usage ratio will increase and further affect your credit score negatively.

    Utility Accounts

    Most of the utility companies, including gas, water, and electricity providers, can check your credit before you open a new account. If you have poor credit, you may be required to pay a security deposit to open an account and switch on your utilities. Having good or excellent credit can facilitate and make the whole process easier.

    Debt-Related Calls

    If your score is low, it shows you’ve delayed payments or not paying regularly. In such cases, the lenders try to contact you to remind you of the credit card payments. If you do not answer their calls, then you will be sent legal notices. All these reminders will create chaos in your everyday life.

    Insurance Premiums

    In many states, insurance companies may use a credit-based insurance score to help determine your premiums. While those scores differ from consumer credit scores, they are based on your credit history. Hence, having a long history of paying your bills on time can help you qualify for lower insurance premiums.

    It’s better to keep your everyday life in your control and not let lenders take control of your peace of mind. Hence, make payments on time to keep a review of your score. If you are genuinely experiencing financial hardships, it is recommended that you notify your lenders and request for some time before you start repaying. That can prevent chaos. It takes longer periods of time and effort to rebuild your credit score, so take care of it before slipping from your hands!!

    Are you looking to improve your CIBIL Score? Contact us