Your credit score reflects how likely you are to repay debts on time. A better score means access to lower rates, larger amounts and faster approval. In Romania, the Credit Bureau is the main database banks and non-bank lenders check to evaluate this risk.
5 things that help
1) Pay instalments on time. The single most important factor — one 30+ day late payment can cut the score 60-100 points. For active loans, set auto-pay the day before due.
2) Keep debt-to-income under 40%. NBR Regulation 17/2012 caps maximum debt at 40% of net income (lei) for consumer credit. Below this you are seen as solvent, above it becomes a risk signal.
3) Avoid too many applications in a short time. Each application creates a hard inquiry. 5+ within two months signal „credit shopping” and can temporarily drop the score 5-15 points.
4) Don't use your full card limit. Utilization over 30% of the limit raises the debt index. Lower the active balance or ask for a limit increase (without using it).
5) Check your Credit Bureau report regularly. You are entitled to one free request per year. Under GDPR, you can request rectification of any incorrect data.
How long until you see a difference
On-time payments show up in 1-3 months. Reducing exposure (used limit, small paid-off loans) is visible in 3-6 months. A fresh clean history takes 12-24 months to become useful for a larger loan such as a mortgage.
Estimate your score for free in Calculators → Credit score, with no Credit Bureau inquiry.