Does applying for multiple credit cards hurt my CIBIL score?
Subhashree Khatri
Asked 14 Apr 2026
I plan to apply for 3 credit cards in 2 months to maximise rewards. Will this hurt my credit score and my future loan eligibility?
4 Answers
The 'minimum due' trap is real. Banks love it because they charge ~36-42% interest on the carried-forward amount. If you can't pay the full bill this month, pay at least 50% — anything below that and the interest eats the rewards of the next 6 months.
On the add-on card: yes, the primary cardholder is fully liable for all spends on the add-on. There is no separate credit limit or statement. So only issue it to someone you trust absolutely — spouse, parents. Not friends, not siblings you have money disputes with.
Forex markup comparison: Amex = 3.5%, HDFC Infinia/Diners Black = 2.0%, Axis Atlas = 3.5% but with milestone fee waivers, ICICI Emeralde = 3.5%, Standard Chartered = 3.5%. If you travel more than twice a year, the math favours Infinia or Diners Black.
On the lounge access — the PassApp / Dreamfolks integration works smoothly only if you've registered your card on the lounge app before reaching the airport. First-time users always face issues. Do it the night before, not at the lounge counter.
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