Life is unpredictable. It is important to be financially secure, independent and sound so that in our lows, we can protect ourselves from financial damage at least.

In the event of separation or death of the sole bread winner of the family, various financial obligations and responsibilities fall on the shoulders of the homemaker. In such a scenario, if a person wants to avail a loan, it might be difficult for him/her to get one due to lack of a rating by CIBIL/Equifax/Experian.

In case you have kids and you want to avail an education loan, you can be in a lurch since you will have no credit history or CIBIL score in your name.

So, it is important for all the homemakers to have a CIBIL score. Here's how to have it:

O Do not surrender an existing credit card: If you are taking a break or even giving up working due to several reasons, do not surrender your existing card or stop using it. A credit card is the simplest way to start a credit history. If you have one, do continue with it and consciously use it occasionally; though always remember to pay on time. This will ensure that you have a continued credit trail and a CIBIL score.

O Take a card before you quit: If you don't own a credit card and planning to call it shots, get one. Getting a credit card is just the first step; you should use it also and pay on time. Delayed payments harm your score rather than giving any benefits.

O Maintain a savings account in your name: If you already have one then continue with it; if you don't, open an account in your name. Every homemaker should have a savings account and fret not, it is not a cumbersome process and requires only basic documentation. In case you are responsible for depositing cheques or making online payments for loans and credit cards; remember delays hurt your credit rating. If you are newly married, marriages do not affect credit history. Just inform the agency about the name change and the history is carried forward under the new name.

O Get a credit card: Getting a credit card for a homemaker is not that easy. Majority of the banks do not issue credit cards without a proof of running income. Some financial institutions, however, do offer one. Check with the bank where you have a savings account. Banks often offer credit cards to the existing account holders, subject to certain conditions. A few banks may offer credit cards against a fixed deposit too. Either ways get a credit card in your name and use it responsibly. While you may not be paying for the credit card, your actions will affect. Be in sync with your spouse about monthly spend of your credit card. Pay on time to have a good CIBIL score.