Knowing all about AECB Credit Score (Al Etihad Credit Bureau)
In the dynamic landscape of Dubai's business environment, staying informed about financial metrics is crucial. One such key indicator is the AECB Credit Score, administered by the Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB). The UAE Federal Government owns 100% of Al Etihad Credit Bureau, a public joint stock company. The corporation must obtain credit details from financial and non-financial institutions in the UAE regularly under UAE Federal Law No. (6) Of 2010. Al Etihad Credit Bureau compiles and analyzes this information to generate Credit Scores and Credit Reports for individuals and businesses in the UAE. In this blog, we'll delve into the intricacies of the AECB Credit Score, its significance, the factors influencing it, and the process of obtaining your AECB credit report.
What exactly is AECB?
Al Etihad Credit Bureau AECB is a dedicated financial institution that gathers credit information from individuals, banks, and financial institutions. The Federal Government of the UAE owns and operates it as a Public Joint Stock Company. It is in charge of gathering financial and credit information from all organizations in the UAE and using it to generate AECB reports and credit scores. Individuals and businesses can receive their credit scores from the AECB for a nominal price.
The AECB Credit Score numerically represents an individual or business entity's creditworthiness. Ranging from 300 to 900, a higher score indicates a lower credit risk and vice versa. Financial institutions and businesses use this score to assess the likelihood of timely repayment when extending credit or services.
What is a Credit Score?
Initially, the AECB only released credit ratings, but now releases individual credit scores. A credit score between 300 and 900 will assess the creditworthiness based on the chances of making a timely loan or credit card payment. An individual has defaulted on a bill if the ranking is 300. It may also suggest that a person is 90 days past due on a payment or has had at least four bounced checks in the previous year. There is a direct correlation between the likelihood of missed payments and the amount of bounced checks.
What is a Credit Score used for?
The Credit Score would allow financial institutions to make better-informed decisions, process credit card and loan applications more efficiently, and give those with high scores preferential treatment.
How is Credit Score Calculated?
Credit scores are determined using data from various sources, including banks, finance firms, and telecommunications companies. A credit score is fluid and fluctuates based on the most recent details of the credit report. Missing or delaying payment beyond the due date, using all credit card limits excessively, or taking on additional loans or credit cards may lower the credit Score. Reduce the number of credit cards, regularly reduce unpaid balances, and make payments on or before the due date to increase the credit score.
How does the AECB gather credit information?
A credit report can only be accessed if a person has taken out credit in their name or by a credit card or other financial or commercial transactions. The Bureau obtains its information from banks, insurance agencies, and occasionally telecommunications companies. An individual's tenancy history or utility bills can also be examined if appropriate. Specific wages are only considered at the very end of the data collection process. Both of these records contribute to the creation of a unified credit report.
The AECB is collaborating with the UAE's highest jurisdictional courts, including the federal courts, in Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. These guarantees in all subsequent rulings against individuals regarding payment issues are recorded.
Why is it essential to track credit scores?
Financial institutions examine your credit score background and evidence to determine whether or not you are a suitable fit for a loan. Based on financial services, people with higher credit ratings are granted preferred bundles. Although the bank will consider the credit rating or ranking before making a loan decision, the bank's requirements will still affect the decision.
Some of the significant reasons why it is essential to track credit score is as follows:
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Loan Approval: Financial institutions use the AECB Credit Score to assess loan applications, influencing approval and interest rates.
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Interest Rates: A higher credit score often leads to lower interest rates, saving you money over the life of a loan.
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Financial Trustworthiness: A strong credit score enhances your financial reputation, building trust with potential business partners and creditors.
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Employment Opportunities: Some employers may consider credit scores part of hiring, especially in financial roles.
Factors Influencing AECB Credit Score
The following are some factors that affect the AECB credit score:
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Payment History: Timely payments positively impact your score, showcasing reliability.
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Credit Utilization: The ratio of your credit card balances to credit limits affects your score.
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Credit History Length: A more extended credit history can improve scores.
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Types of Credit: A diverse credit portfolio, including loans and credit cards, can positively impact your score.
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New Credit: Opening multiple credit accounts quickly may negatively affect your score.
How to Check Your AECB Credit Score
To check your AECB credit score, follow these steps:
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Visit the AECB Website: Access the AECB portal and register for an account.
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Provide Required Information: Input personal details and authenticate your identity.
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Request Credit Report: Navigate to the credit report section and request your AECB credit report.
How can one obtain a Credit Report from AECB?
To receive a credit report, go to Al Etihad Credit Bureau's Customer Service Centre and apply for a credit report. Individuals must have the following documentation to receive a credit report:
Identity Proof
The Applicant has to provide an original Emirates Identity card for verification.
Passport
The Applicant has to provide a certified copy of the passport so that the concerned authorities know from which country the Applicant belongs and for other future references.
Authorizing Documents
The following items must be brought for authorization:
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Customer ID: A copy of the customer's Emirates Identity card and passport has to be provided (owner of the Credit Report).
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Approved Person ID: The approved person has to give an original Emirates Identity card for verification.
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Authorization Letter from the Bank: An Authorization Letter from the bank that requires validation of the customer's signature or an initial notarized Power of Attorney acceptable to the Al Etihad Credit Bureau.
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Credit Report Consent Form: The completed Credit Report Consent Form is available online; in this form, the Applicant consents that a company can obtain information for generating credit reports.
Decoding Your AECB Credit Report
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Personal Information: Verify that your details are accurate.
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Credit Accounts: Review active accounts, outstanding balances, and payment history.
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Credit Inquiries: Check for any recent inquiries made by creditors.
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Public Records: Ensure no bankruptcies or legal issues are affecting your creditworthiness.
Can Al Etihad Credit Bureau accept or deny loan applications?
The Al Etihad Credit Bureau needs to have the authority to make decisions. Decision makers and first points of touch for any loan or credit application are banks and financial institutions (credit providers).
What data will be collected about you?
Your bank will have information on your financial commitments to the AECB. If you have a couple of credit cards and a deposit, your credit report will reflect that. However, it also provides specifics about your purchase history. If you routinely skip debt payments or have your credit cards maxed out, your credit report will show this. When, on the other hand, you have a spotless payment history, no late fees and a fully charged credit card, it would appear on your profile as well.
The AECB will also obtain reports from non-financial entities to see whether you are fulfilling your other financial commitments. So, for example, the telecoms service can have reports about any late bill payments, as well as statistics from other organizations.
Conclusion
In the competitive business landscape of Dubai, understanding and managing your AECB Credit Score is essential. Regularly monitoring your score and addressing any discrepancies can positively impact your financial health and open doors to better opportunities. Stay proactive, stay informed, and secure a solid financial foundation for your business endeavours in Dubai. Connect with Dhanguard to get your credit score.
