Many people in India check their credit score for the first time and see something confusing instead of a number. It may show NH, NA, or 0. This usually happens to students, first-time salaried professionals, freelancers, or anyone who has never taken credit before.
Seeing NH or NA does not indicate an issue. It simply means your credit journey has not started yet. Let’s understand what these terms mean and how you can build credit history the right way.
What Does NH Credit Score Mean?
NH means No History.
This means
- You have never taken a loan
- You have never used a credit card
- There is no repayment data available
Banks and credit bureaus do not have enough information to generate a score for you.
NH is common among
- College students
- Fresh job starters
- People who use only debit cards and cash
Score nahi hai, but problem bhi nahi hai.
What Does NA Credit Score Mean?
NA means Not Available.
This usually appears when
- You had credit earlier, but no recent activity
- All credit accounts were closed long ago
- Your credit profile is inactive
In simple words, the data is too old or too limited to calculate a score.
NA is different from bad credit. It just means your profile is inactive.
What Does a 0 Credit Score Mean?
A 0 credit score is rare, but it can appear in some reports.
It usually means
- No usable credit data
- Extremely thin or inactive profile
It does not mean zero trust. It implies that no score could be calculated.
Is an NH or NA Credit Score Bad?
No.
NH or NA is not negative. It is just an empty profile.
Banks cannot judge your credit behaviour because there is no data. This makes lenders cautious, not rejecting by default.
However, if you apply for loans with NH or NA, the likelihood of approval is low unless the product is designed for beginners.
Why Banks Hesitate With NH or NA Profiles
Banks work on data and patterns.
With NH or NA profiles
- There is no repayment behaviour to study
- Risk level cannot be measured
- Past discipline is unknown
That is why lenders prefer applicants with at least some credit history, even if the score is average.
Isliye credit history banana zaroori hai.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Credit Score?
Once you start using credit properly, a score is usually generated within 3 to 6 months.
This depends on
- Type of credit used
- Payment regularity
- Credit utilisation
Regular use with on-time payments is key.
Best Ways to Build Credit History Fast in India
You do not need to rush or take big loans. Simple steps work best.
1. Start With a Secured Credit Card
A secured credit card backed by a fixed deposit is ideal for beginners.
Benefits
- Easy approval
- Low risk
- Builds proper credit history
Use it lightly and pay bills on time.
2. Use Credit Card Responsibly
Once you get a card
- Keep usage below 30 per cent of the limit
- Pay the full bill before the due date
- Avoid cash withdrawals
Consistency matters more than spending.
3. Avoid Multiple Loan Applications
Do not apply to many lenders at once.
Too many applications result in multiple hard enquiries, which can delay score generation and harm future approvals.
4. Keep Accounts Active
If you close all accounts, your profile may return to NA over time.
Maintain at least one active credit line.
5. Monitor Your Credit Profile Regularly
Checking your report helps you track progress and catch errors early.
Use a reliable service to check your credit score so you know when it is updated and how it changes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Taking loans just to create history
- Paying only the minimum due on cards
- Maxing out the credit limit
- Missing owing dates even once
- Closing accounts too early
Ye chhoti galtiyan aage jaake big problems ban jaati hain.
What Score Is Considered Good After NH or NA?
Once your score is generated
- 650 plus is a decent start
- 700 plus shows good discipline
- 750 plus is considered strong
The first year is about building habits, not chasing a perfect number.
Final Thoughts
An NH, NA, or 0 credit score indicates your credit journey has not yet begun. It is not a rejection stamp.
With one well-managed credit product and disciplined payments, you can build a healthy credit history faster than you think. Thoda patience, thoda planning, and your profile will open doors to better loans and cards.
FAQs
Is NH’s credit score bad?
No. It only means you have no credit history yet.
Can I get a loan with an NA score?
Some beginner-friendly products may be available, but options are limited.
How fast can I move from NH to a credit score?
Usually, within 3 to 6 months of regular credit usage.
Does checking my credit score lower it?
No. Self-checks do not affect your credit score.
Should I take a loan just to build credit?
No. Use safer options, such as secured credit cards.
