HDFC
HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card
This card is no longer offered by bank
This card is no longer sourceable
This card is no longer offered by bank
Top Benefits
Get ₹1,000 Cashback
on PayZapp app shopping across 200+ partner brands
Earn 5% Cashback on Bill Payments & Mobile Recharge
on eligible electricity, water, broadband and mobile recharge transactions; capped at ₹150 per month across combined categories
Best For
Travel
Utility Bills
Meet the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card, a practical RuPay card built to help you save money on your ev...
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Meet the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card, a practical RuPay card built to help you save money on your ev...
Meet the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card, a practical RuPay card built to help you save money on your everyday necessities. If you want a straightforward card that rewards you for routine expenses like groceries, fuel, and utility bills, this option deserves your attention. The card gives you a clear 5% cashback on specific daily categories, directly cutting down your monthly expenses. Because it operates on the RuPay network, you can easily link it to UPI apps like PayZapp to pay at local merchants right from your phone.
This card targets first-time credit users, young professionals, and individuals from tier-2 or tier-3 cities who want a reliable financial tool without steep costs. The entry requirements are highly accessible, demanding just Rs. 2 Lakhs in annual income. While it lacks premium travel perks or lifestyle luxuries, it focuses purely on utility. If you use it smartly for your basic monthly bills, the savings easily justify the low Rs. 500 annual fee.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
Is the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card lifetime free?
No, the card comes with a joining fee of Rs. 500 and an annual renewal fee of Rs. 500. However, you can get the annual fee waived if you meet specific spending targets during the year.
Is this a good first credit card?
Yes, it works well as a starter card. With a low minimum income requirement of just Rs. 2 Lakhs per annum and a focus on everyday essentials, it helps beginners build their credit score while saving on routine bills.
Can I use this card for UPI payments?
Yes, since it is issued on the RuPay network, you can link it to UPI applications. The bank specifically highlights linking it to PayZapp for secure and quick payments.
Who should apply for this card?
This card suits young professionals, beginners, and anyone looking for a low-cost card to earn cashback on groceries, fuel, and bill payments without navigating complex reward catalogs.
Expert Review
As a financial expert evaluating entry-level credit cards, I find the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card to be a mixed bag. On one hand, its low income requirement of just Rs. 2 Lakhs makes it a fantastic tool for young earners entering the credit system. The 1-to-1 reward ratio is refreshingly simple, and the ability to link it to PayZapp via the RuPay network makes it highly relevant for modern, scan-to-pay usage.
However, the card has a glaring flaw: the Rs. 150 monthly cashback cap across eligible categories. This is simply too low. Hitting a maximum reward of Rs. 150 means you stop earning accelerated points after spending just Rs. 3,000 on groceries or fuel in a month. In today's economy, a household can exceed that limit in a single supermarket trip. This severe cap limits the card's potential for anyone other than absolute beginners or micro-spenders.
My verdict? If you are a first-time applicant needing a simple, low-cost card to build credit while getting a tiny discount on basic bills, take it. The Rs. 50,000 annual waiver is easy to hit. But if you have an established credit history or spend more than Rs. 5,000 a month, skip this and look for cards with higher or unlimited cashback caps.
Joining / Annual Fee
Joining Fees
₹590 ( ₹500 + GST )
Annual Fees
₹590 ( ₹500 + GST )
The fee structure of the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card is designed to be highly affordable. When your ...
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The fee structure of the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card is designed to be highly affordable. When your ...
The fee structure of the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card is designed to be highly affordable. When your application is approved and the card is issued, a one-time joining fee of Rs. 500 plus applicable taxes is charged to your first statement. Unlike some premium cards, there is no specific welcome bonus or voucher mentioned to offset this initial cost.
From the second year onwards, you are charged an annual renewal fee of Rs. 500. However, the bank provides a very achievable way to avoid this recurring charge. The annual fee is entirely waived if you spend Rs. 50,000 or more on your card in the preceding 12 months.
To put that in perspective, spending Rs. 50,000 in a year breaks down to just Rs. 4,167 per month. If you simply use this card to pay your electricity bill, mobile recharges, and fill petrol a couple of times a month, you will easily hit the waiver threshold, essentially making the card free for the long term.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
How much is the joining fee for this card?
The card comes with a one-time joining fee of Rs. 500, which is billed in your very first credit card statement.
Do I get any welcome gifts to cover the joining fee?
No, the bank data explicitly states that this card does not offer any benefits in the welcome benefits category.
What is the yearly charge to keep the card active?
An annual maintenance or renewal fee of Rs. 500 plus taxes is applied every year starting from your second year of membership.
How can I avoid paying the Rs. 500 annual fee?
You can get the annual fee waived completely by spending Rs. 50,000 or more using the card within the 12-month period before your renewal date.
Does spending on fuel count toward the fee waiver target?
All regular retail spends, including fuel and groceries, count toward your Rs. 50,000 annual spending milestone.
Are rent payments counted in the fee waiver milestone?
Transactions like rent payments and wallet loads are excluded from the Rs. 50,000 annual milestone calculation.
What happens if I only spend Rs. 40,000 in a year?
If you fall short of the Rs. 50,000 target, the full Rs. 500 annual fee plus GST will be charged to your account on your card anniversary.
Can I request a waiver if I miss the target by a small amount?
Fee waivers are processed systematically based on exact spend numbers. If you miss the target, the Rs. 500 fee plus taxes is automatically charged to your next billing cycle.
Eligibility
Age
Criteria*
21-60 years
Salary
Criteria*
2LPA
Credit
Rating*
720+
New to credit
allowed
Yes
Existing Bank
Customer Allowed
No
HDFC Bank has kept the entry barrier for the Bharat Credit Card wonderfully low, making it accessible...
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HDFC Bank has kept the entry barrier for the Bharat Credit Card wonderfully low, making it accessible...
HDFC Bank has kept the entry barrier for the Bharat Credit Card wonderfully low, making it accessible to a massive portion of the population. Whether you draw a salary or run your own business, the basic requirements are straightforward to meet.
For salaried professionals, you must be between 21 and 60 years of age. Your minimum monthly income needs to be Rs. 25,000, which translates to a minimum annual income requirement of Rs. 3 Lakhs. This means entry-level employees, fresh graduates, and junior staff can comfortably qualify.
For self-employed individuals, the age bracket is slightly wider, starting at 21 and going up to 65 years. The income requirement remains the same: you need to show a minimum annual income of Rs. 2 Lakhs through your Income Tax Returns (ITR).
Credit history matters too. The bank requires a minimum CRIF score of 720. If your score is 720 or above, your chances of approval are excellent. If you are entirely new to credit and have no score, the bank approves applications based on income stability and the presence of an existing savings or salary account relationship.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the minimum age required to get this card?
The primary applicant must be at least 21 years old at the time of application, regardless of employment type.
What is the maximum age limit to apply?
Salaried applicants can apply up to the age of 60. For self-employed individuals, the upper age limit is extended to 65 years.
What salary do I need to get approved?
Salaried individuals must have a minimum monthly income of Rs. 25,000, which meets the Rs. 3 Lakhs annual income requirement for this card.
Can shop owners and freelancers apply?
Yes, self-employed individuals are fully eligible. You must show an annual income of at least Rs. 2 Lakhs, usually through your latest tax filings.
What credit score is needed for this card?
A minimum CRIF credit score of 720 is required as per the bank's criteria to process your application smoothly.
Will I be rejected if my score is exactly 720?
A score of 720 meets the minimum requirement. Approval also depends on your income proof, existing debt, and documentation.
Do I need an HDFC bank account to apply?
No, holding a savings or salary account with HDFC Bank is not mandatory, though it can make the approval and verification process faster.
Can students apply for this card?
Students do not meet the minimum income criteria of Rs. 2 Lakhs on their own. However, they can get it as an add-on card against a parent's primary account.
All Card Benefits
- Earn 5% monthly Cashback on IRCTC Bookings, cashback counted within ₹150 monthly cap
- Upto ₹1,000 cashback on in-app shopping across 200+ brands via PayZapp
- Earn 5% cashback on spends on PayZapp, EasyEMI & SmartBuy; 1 Reward Point = ₹1; combined cashback capped at ₹150 per month across all 5% categories
- Earn 5% cashback on fuel, grocery, bill payments & mobile recharge; combined cashback capped at ₹150 per month across all 5% categories
- Get up to 10% cashback on flight & hotel bookings, gift vouchers & more via SmartBuy
5% Cashback on Everyday Essentials
The standout feature of this card is the 5% cashback you earn o...
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5% Cashback on Everyday Essentials The standout feature of this card is the 5% cashback you earn o...
5% Cashback on Everyday Essentials
The standout feature of this card is the 5% cashback you earn on routine monthly expenses. When you use your card for grocery shopping, bill payments, mobile recharges, or fuel, you earn 5% of your spend back as reward points. You also get this same 5% rate when you use PayZapp, opt for EasyEMI, or make purchases through SmartBuy.
However, you need to be aware of the strict upper limit. The total cashback is capped at Rs. 150 per month across all eligible categories combined. For example, if you spend Rs. 3,000 on groceries in a month, you will earn the maximum Rs. 150 cashback. Any further spending on bills or fuel in that same month will not earn the 5% rate. You also need to ensure your transactions are made at select RuPay recognized merchant categories to qualify.
Travel and Booking Rewards
While this is not a premium travel card, it provides solid utility for train travelers. You get a direct 5% monthly cashback on IRCTC ticket bookings. Additionally, if you book flights or hotels through the HDFC SmartBuy portal, you can earn up to 10% cashback. This makes it quite useful for an occasional family trip or going back home for the holidays.
Let us look at a practical example. If you book train tickets worth Rs. 2,000 for a holiday trip, you earn Rs. 100 as cashback (assuming you have not exhausted your Rs. 150 monthly limit on other categories). For flight bookings on SmartBuy, a Rs. 5,000 domestic ticket could yield up to Rs. 500 in savings, depending on the ongoing SmartBuy offer limits.
Digital and In-App Shopping Perks
The bank heavily incentivizes linking this card to digital platforms. When you link your card to PayZapp, you open up additional avenues for cashback and rewards, especially on mobile recharges and bill payments. Furthermore, the card offers Rs. 1,000 cashback on in-app shopping across more than 200 partner brands. The card also features Swipe-to-Pay technology, allowing you to make secure, OTP-less payments for quicker checkouts.
For example, if you use PayZapp linked to your Bharat card to pay your Rs. 1,000 broadband bill, you benefit from the card's base 5% reward structure, plus any ongoing PayZapp-specific promotions, maximizing your total value.
Fuel Surcharge Waiver
Besides the 5% cashback on fuel purchases (up to the monthly cap), the card also provides a 1% fuel surcharge waiver. This waiver applies when you swipe your card at fuel stations for transactions of Rs. 400 and above. This essentially covers the processing fee that petrol pumps charge for credit card transactions.
For instance, if you fill up your tank for Rs. 1,000, the petrol pump typically adds a 1% surcharge (Rs. 10). This card waives that Rs. 10 surcharge, ensuring you only pay for the fuel you pumped, while you simultaneously earn your 5% cashback points on the transaction.
Reward Points Structure
The HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card operates on a point-based system where the points translate directly into cash value. All your 5% earnings are credited to your account as Reward Points. The conversion rate is straightforward: 1 Reward Point equals Rs. 1.
This transparent 1-to-1 ratio removes the confusion often associated with credit card rewards. When you check your statement and see 100 Reward Points, you know you have exactly Rs. 100 ready to use. You redeem these points as direct cashback against your credit card statement balance, effectively lowering your monthly bill.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
How much cashback do I get on grocery shopping?
You earn 5% cashback on grocery purchases. If you spend Rs. 2,000 on groceries, you will earn Rs. 100 in cashback, provided you haven't hit the monthly cap.
Is there a limit to how much 5% cashback I can earn?
Yes, the total cashback across all 5% categories is strictly capped at Rs. 150 per month. Once you reach this limit, further transactions do not earn the accelerated cashback.
Does paying my electricity bill qualify for the 5% cashback?
Yes, utility bill payments are part of the eligible categories for the 5% cashback offer, subject to the Rs. 150 overall monthly cap.
Do I get cashback on EMI purchases?
Yes, you can earn 5% cashback on EasyEMI transactions. However, standard EMI spends outside the specific bank offers might be excluded, so always check the transaction terms.
Do I get cashback on train bookings?
Yes, you earn 5% monthly cashback on IRCTC ticket bookings. Remember that this shares the overall Rs. 150 monthly cap with your grocery and fuel spends.
Are there any benefits for booking flights?
You can earn up to 10% cashback on flight and hotel bookings when you route your purchase through the HDFC SmartBuy platform.
Does this card offer free airport lounge access?
No, the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card does not offer any airport or railway lounge access benefits.
Is there a separate limit for the SmartBuy cashback?
SmartBuy offers have their own specific terms and monthly limits independent of the core card features, with cashback typically capped at Rs. 1,000 per month depending on the active campaign.
What happens when I link this card to PayZapp?
Linking your card to PayZapp allows you to earn the standard 5% cashback on eligible spends, plus you get access to exclusive bank offers on bill payments and recharges.
What is the Rs. 1,000 cashback offer for in-app shopping?
The card provides promotional cashback up to Rs. 1,000 when you shop inside the bank's digital ecosystem across 200 participating partner brands.
How does the Swipe-to-Pay feature work?
Swipe-to-Pay allows you to complete certain transactions securely without waiting for an OTP, making your digital checkout process much faster.
Can I use this card on other UPI apps besides PayZapp?
Yes, as a RuPay credit card, you can link it to popular UPI applications like GPay, PhonePe, or Paytm for merchant payments.
What is the minimum transaction required for the fuel surcharge waiver?
You need to swipe your card for a minimum of Rs. 400 at the fuel station to qualify for the 1% surcharge waiver.
Do I get both cashback and a surcharge waiver on fuel?
Yes, you receive the 1% surcharge waiver on eligible transactions, and fuel purchases also count toward your 5% monthly cashback category (up to the Rs. 150 limit).
Is there a maximum limit on the fuel surcharge waiver?
The maximum fuel surcharge waiver is capped at Rs. 250 per billing cycle, which covers spends up to Rs. 25,000 at any petrol station.
Can I get the waiver at any petrol pump?
Yes, the 1% fuel surcharge waiver applies across all authorized petrol pumps in India, regardless of the brand.
What is the value of 1 Reward Point on this card?
Each reward point is valued exactly at Rs. 1. This 1-to-1 conversion rate makes calculating your savings very easy.
How do I earn the 5% cashback?
You earn the 5% cashback in the form of Reward Points when you spend on eligible categories like groceries, fuel, IRCTC, and PayZapp.
How many points do I earn if I spend Rs. 1,000 on groceries?
A Rs. 1,000 spend on groceries earns you 50 Reward Points, which equals Rs. 50 in value.
What happens after I reach the Rs. 150 monthly cashback cap?
Once you earn 150 Reward Points in a month from the 5% categories, further spending in those areas will not yield additional accelerated points for that billing cycle.
Do my reward points expire?
Credit card reward points remain valid for a period of 2 years from the date of accumulation, after which they expire if not redeemed.
Can I earn points on rent payments?
No, rent payments are explicitly excluded from earning any reward points on this card.
Do wallet recharges earn reward points?
No, adding money to digital wallets like Paytm or Amazon Pay does not earn any reward points.
Can I earn points on school or college fees?
Educational fee payments are excluded and will not accumulate any reward points on your account.
Is there a limit to how many points I can hold at once?
There is no limit to point accumulation, provided you do not let them expire. However, you are constrained by how many you can earn per month.
How do I check my reward point balance?
You can easily check your current reward point balance on your monthly credit card statement, through HDFC NetBanking, or via the mobile app.
How to Redeem Rewards & Cashback?
Rewards Conversion Rate
N/A
Redemption Options
This is a cashback card, and the earned cashback is adjusted directly in your monthly statement.
To check redemption catalogue
N/A
The redemption process for the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card is straightforward because the points hol...
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The redemption process for the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card is straightforward because the points hol...
The redemption process for the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card is straightforward because the points hold a clear cash value. You do not need to hunt through complex catalogs to find something worth your points. The bank allows you to redeem your accumulated Reward Points directly as cashback against your statement balance.
First, log in to your HDFC NetBanking account or mobile app. Navigate to the Credit Cards section and select the 'Enquire' or 'Redeem Reward Points' option. This will take you to the Simple Rewards Program portal. From there, select the 'Cash Redemption' option.
Since 1 Reward Point is worth exactly Rs. 1, the math is simple. If you have collected 500 Reward Points over a few months, you can redeem them for a Rs. 500 statement credit. This money is adjusted against your outstanding bill. Do note that a reward redemption handling fee of Rs. 99 plus applicable GST is charged every time you make a redemption request. Therefore, it is wise to accumulate a larger number of points—say 1,000 or 2,000—before redeeming, so the Rs. 99 fee does not eat up too much of your value.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
How do I convert my points to cashback?
You must log into NetBanking, access the rewards portal, and choose cash redemption. The equivalent amount will be credited to your credit card account.
Is the cashback credited automatically every month?
No, the cashback is accumulated as Reward Points. You must manually initiate a redemption request through the bank's portal to apply it to your balance.
How much is 100 Reward Points worth?
Because the conversion rate is 1 RP = Rs. 1, your 100 Reward Points are worth exactly Rs. 100 in statement credit.
Is there a charge to redeem my points?
Yes, the bank charges a handling fee of Rs. 99 plus GST for every single redemption request you make, regardless of how many points you redeem.
How long does the cashback take to reflect on my statement?
Once you submit the redemption request, the cash credit reflects in your credit card statement within 2 to 3 working days.
Can I use my points to buy gift vouchers instead of cash?
Yes, the rewards portal also offers an online catalog where you can exchange your points for brand vouchers or products, though cash redemption is usually the best value.
What is the minimum number of points needed to redeem?
A minimum balance of 500 Reward Points is required to initiate a cash redemption request.
Do I lose my points if I cancel the card?
Yes, any unredeemed Reward Points are forfeited when you close the credit card account. Always redeem your balance before initiating cancellation.
Bank Exclusions
You will not earn points / cashback on spends in the following categories
For Points / Cashback Earnings
Wallet Loads
Rent Payments
Government Payments
Educational Fees
EMI Spends
For Spends Waiver
Wallet Loads
Rent Payments
Government Payments
Educational Fees
EMI Spends
To use this card effectively, you must understand where it will not reward you. Banks restrict certai...
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To use this card effectively, you must understand where it will not reward you. Banks restrict certai...
To use this card effectively, you must understand where it will not reward you. Banks restrict certain merchant categories from earning points to prevent abuse and manage costs. On the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card, several major expense categories are completely excluded from the reward program.
You will not earn any Reward Points on Wallet Loads (adding money to Paytm, Amazon Pay, etc.), Rent Payments, Government Payments, Educational Fees, or EMI Spends. If you use your card to pay your child's Rs. 50,000 school fee, you will earn zero points. Similarly, using platforms like Cred or NoBroker to pay Rs. 20,000 in monthly house rent will not yield any cashback, and you will actually incur an extra fee for the transaction.
The most important exclusion, or rather limitation, is the Rs. 150 monthly cap on the 5% cashback categories. This means once you spend Rs. 3,000 collectively on groceries, fuel, and bills in a month, any further spending in those categories earns you absolutely nothing. You must track your spending carefully to know when you have hit this ceiling.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
Will I earn cashback if I add money to my digital wallet?
No, wallet load transactions are strictly excluded and will not earn any reward points or cashback.
Can I get 5% cashback on my house rent payment?
No, rent payments do not earn any rewards. Furthermore, a 1% processing fee is applied when you pay rent using this credit card.
Do government tax payments earn any points?
No, payments made on government portals for taxes, challans, or municipal services are excluded from the rewards program.
If I buy a phone on EMI, do I get rewards?
Standard EMI spends are excluded from earning regular reward points. However, specific EasyEMI promotional offers might have separate cashback terms.
Are college tuition fees eligible for cashback?
No, all educational fee payments are excluded and will not accumulate any points on your account.
What happens if I spend Rs. 5,000 on groceries in one month?
You will earn 5% cashback on the first Rs. 3,000 (reaching the Rs. 150 maximum cap). The remaining Rs. 2,000 spent on groceries will not earn any additional cashback.
Bank Fee Structure
| Structure | Details |
|---|---|
Forex Markups  3.5% forex markup is charged on transactions made in currencies other than INR. Applies to international POS payments and online purchases charged in foreign currency. | 3.50% |
APR Fees Finance charges of 3.60% per month (43.2% per annum) apply on unpaid outstanding balances until the amount is fully repaid. | 3.60% |
ATM withdrawal 2.5% of the withdrawn amount is charged on cash advances using the credit card (minimum ₹500, if applicable). | 2.50% |
Reward Redemption Fees A reward redemption handling fee of ₹99 plus applicable GST is charged per redemption request. | ₹99 |
Link for all T&Cs | Click Here |
Railway Surcharge A surcharge of 1% is applied to transactions made for booking railway tickets. | 1% |
Rent Payment Fees 1% of the transaction amount is charged as a fee on rent payment transactions, subject to applicable GST and platform charges | 1% |
cheque Payment Fees ₹25 for cheque value up to ₹5,000 and ₹50 for cheque value above ₹5,000. | ₹25 |
Cash Payment Fees ₹100 cash payment fee per deposit. | ₹100 |
| Late Payment Fees | Amount Due |
|---|---|
| ₹0 – ₹100 | ₹0 |
| ₹101 – ₹500 | ₹100 |
| ₹501 – ₹5,000 | ₹500 |
| ₹5,001 – ₹10,000 | ₹600 |
| ₹10,001 – ₹25,000 | ₹800 |
| ₹25,001 – ₹50,000 | ₹1,100 |
| ₹50,001 and above | ₹1,300 |
Understanding the exact costs associated with your credit card is crucial to avoid unpleasant surpris...
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Understanding the exact costs associated with your credit card is crucial to avoid unpleasant surpris...
Understanding the exact costs associated with your credit card is crucial to avoid unpleasant surprises. The HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card is marketed as an affordable card, but standard bank charges apply if you roll over balances, withdraw cash, or miss payments.
Joining Fee: When the card is issued, a one-time joining fee of Rs. 500 is applied to your account. There is no welcome voucher to offset this fee, meaning it is an upfront cost you must bear.
Annual Fee: Every year, you will be charged an annual renewal fee of Rs. 500. However, this is waived if you spend Rs. 50,000 or more in a year. For example, if you spend Rs. 4,500 every month on groceries and fuel, you will cross the Rs. 50,000 mark and never pay this fee.
APR or Interest Rate: If you do not pay your total outstanding amount by the due date, finance charges of 3.60% per month (43.2% per annum) apply. For example, if you leave a balance of Rs. 10,000 unpaid, the bank will add an interest charge of roughly Rs. 360 to your next month's bill. Interest is calculated on a daily basis from the date of the transaction until full repayment.
Late Payment Charges: Missing a payment deadline triggers a late fee based on your outstanding balance slabs: Rs. 0 for balances under Rs. 100, up to a maximum of Rs. 1,300 for balances above Rs. 50,000. For instance, if your unpaid bill is Rs. 3,000, a late fee of Rs. 500 will be charged.
Forex Markup Fee: A 3.5% markup is charged on transactions made in foreign currencies. If you buy a software subscription online billed in US Dollars equivalent to Rs. 1,000, the bank will add a Rs. 35 forex markup fee to the transaction.
ATM Cash Withdrawal Fee: Using a credit card to withdraw cash is expensive. The bank charges 2.5% of the withdrawn amount, subject to a minimum of Rs. 500. If you withdraw Rs. 10,000 from an ATM, the fee is 2.5% (Rs. 250), but because the minimum is Rs. 500, you will be charged Rs. 500.
Rent Payment Fee: Rent payments no longer come free. A 1% fee is charged on the transaction amount. If you use this card to pay Rs. 15,000 as rent, you will face an extra fee of Rs. 150 plus GST.
Railway Surcharge: A surcharge of 1% is applied to transactions made for booking railway tickets. However, remember the card offers a 5% cashback on IRCTC, which helps offset this cost.
Cash Payment Fee: If you walk into an HDFC branch to pay your credit card bill using physical cash, a processing fee of Rs. 100 is charged per deposit. Always use online payment methods to avoid this.
Cheque Payment Fee: Paying your bill via cheque also attracts fees: Rs. 25 for cheque values up to Rs. 5,000, and Rs. 50 for values above Rs. 5,000. For a bill payment of Rs. 6,000 via cheque, you pay an extra Rs. 50.
Reward Redemption Fee: When you convert your points into cash, a handling fee of Rs. 99 plus applicable GST is deducted. If you redeem points worth Rs. 500, the Rs. 99 fee means your net effective gain drops slightly, so bulk redemptions are wiser.
| Fee Type | Amount / Rate |
|---|---|
| Joining Fee | Rs. 500 |
| Annual Fee | Rs. 500 (Waived on Rs. 50,000 annual spend) |
| Interest Rate (APR) | 3.60% per month (43.2% per annum) |
| Late Payment Fee | Rs. 0 to Rs. 1,300 based on outstanding balance |
| Forex Markup | 3.5% |
| Cash Withdrawal Fee | 2.5% of amount (Minimum Rs. 500) |
| Rent Payment Fee | 1% of transaction amount |
| Reward Redemption Fee | Rs. 99 + GST per request |
| Cash/Cheque Payment Fee | Cash: Rs. 100 | Cheque: Rs. 25 or Rs. 50 |
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the joining fees for this card?
The joining fee is Rs. 500, which is charged once when the card is issued to you.
What is the annual or renewal fee?
The card has an annual renewal fee of Rs. 500, charged from the second year onwards.
Is there an annual fee waiver based on spending?
Yes, the annual fee is completely waived if you spend Rs. 50,000 or more in a year on your card.
How can I get this card lifetime free?
There is no official lifetime free offer for this card. You must meet the Rs. 50,000 spending milestone each year to keep it free.
What is the interest rate (APR) if I don't pay my full balance?
An interest rate of 3.60% per month, which equals 43.2% annually, is applied to any unpaid balances.
How is the interest calculated on outstanding balances?
Finance charges apply on your unpaid outstanding balances on a daily calculation basis from the transaction date until the full amount is completely repaid.
What are the late payment charges?
Late fees range from Rs. 0 to Rs. 1,300 depending on the size of your missed payment.
Is the late payment fee different based on outstanding amount?
Yes, it follows a slab structure. For example, a balance between Rs. 501 and Rs. 5,000 attracts a Rs. 500 fee, while a balance above Rs. 50,000 attracts Rs. 1,300.
What is the forex markup for international transactions?
A 3.5% forex markup is charged on all international POS payments and online purchases made in foreign currencies.
Can I withdraw cash using my credit card?
Yes, but a high fee of 2.5% of the withdrawn amount is charged, with a minimum fee of Rs. 500.
What happens if I spend more than my credit limit?
Transactions exceeding your credit limit are declined, or if approved, incur an over-limit fee of 2.5% of the over-limit amount (minimum Rs. 500).
Are there fees for paying rent with this card?
Yes, a 1% fee is charged on the transaction amount whenever you use the card for rent payments.
Is there a fee for paying my bill in cash?
Yes, depositing physical cash at a branch to pay your credit card bill incurs a flat Rs. 100 fee.
What are the charges for cheque payment of bills?
Paying via cheque costs Rs. 25 for bills up to Rs. 5,000, and Rs. 50 for bills above that amount.
Is there a fee to redeem my reward points?
Yes, a reward redemption handling fee of Rs. 99 plus applicable GST is charged for every redemption request.
Documents Required
To process your application smoothly, you must provide proof of identity, address, and income. Having these ready prevents unnecessary delays.
You need your PAN Card as the primary identity document. For address proof, an Aadhaar Card, Passport, or Voter ID is acceptable. To prove your income, salaried employees should provide their latest two months' salary slips and the last three months' bank statements showing salary credits. Self-employed applicants must submit their latest Income Tax Return (ITR) computation along with business continuation proof.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
What identity proof is required?
You must provide your PAN Card. An Aadhaar card is also required for quick e-KYC and digital signature verification.
What can I use for address proof?
Your Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID, or a recent utility bill in your name serves as valid address proof.
What income documents do salaried applicants need?
Salaried individuals must submit their latest 2 months' salary slips and the most recent Form 16.
What income documents do self-employed applicants need?
Self-employed professionals must provide their latest Income Tax Returns (ITR) computing an annual income of at least Rs. 2 Lakhs.
Do I need to submit physical copies of my documents?
If you successfully complete Video KYC and Aadhaar-based digital signing, you do not need to submit any physical paperwork.
Can a bank statement act as income proof?
In cases where payroll slips are unavailable, the bank uses your last 3 months' bank statements showing salary credits to support your application.
Who Should Get This Card?
The Beginner Profile: If you just started your first job earning around Rs. 25,000 a month and want to build your credit score safely, this card is ideal. You can use it to pay your phone bill and buy local groceries via UPI, earning a small but guaranteed cashback while keeping your annual fees at zero by hitting the easy Rs. 50,000 waiver target.
The Two-Wheeler Commuter: If your main expense is filling Rs. 1,500 worth of petrol every month and paying a few household bills, the 5% cashback and fuel surcharge waiver will perfectly capture savings on your limited expenses without pushing you to overspend.
Who should NOT get this card: If you spend more than Rs. 5,000 a month on credit cards, do not apply for this card. The Rs. 150 monthly cashback cap is restrictive. High spenders, frequent online shoppers, and travelers will find no value here and should look at premium cashback or travel cards instead.
Credit Limit and What to Expect
Your credit limit is determined by your income, credit score, and existing debts. Because the entry income requirement for this card is low (Rs. 2 Lakhs per annum), first-time borrowers receive a starting credit limit ranging from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 40,000. The bank adjusts limits as you build a track record of timely payments.
If you already have a strong credit profile or maintain a healthy salary account with HDFC Bank, you will receive a higher initial limit of Rs. 75,000 or more. You can request a limit increase after 6 months of consistent usage and full bill payments.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
What will my starting credit limit be?
Initial limits are based on your profile. A beginner with a Rs. 2.5 Lakh salary receives a limit starting from Rs. 25,000, while those with higher income or existing credit history receive higher limits.
Can I spend my entire credit limit in one day?
Yes, you can utilize your full available limit, though maxing out your credit card frequently can negatively impact your overall credit score.
How fast can I get a credit limit increase?
Banks review accounts for limit enhancements after 6 months of good payment behavior and consistent card usage.
Does linking the card to UPI affect my credit limit?
No, using the card via UPI for merchant payments draws from the exact same overall credit limit assigned to your physical card.
Can I set a lower limit for online transactions?
Yes, you can use the mobile banking app to set personalized limits for online, POS, and contactless transactions for better security.
What happens if I try to spend more than my limit?
The transaction will typically be declined. In cases where it is approved, an over-limit fee of 2.5% of the over-limit amount (minimum Rs. 500) will be charged to your account.
How to Apply?
Getting your hands on the HDFC Bank Bharat Credit Card is a fully digital, paperless process. You can start your application directly on the official HDFC Bank website or through verified partner platforms. You will need to enter your basic details, PAN number, and employment information. The system will run a quick check to ensure you meet the 720 CRIF score and Rs. 2 LPA income criteria.
Once preliminary approval is granted, you will proceed to the Video KYC (VKYC) stage. This is a crucial step that replaces physical document submission. During the video call with a bank agent, you must show your original PAN card and confirm your identity. Make sure you are in India, have a solid internet connection, and are physically present near the address you provided on the application.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I apply for this card entirely online?
Yes, the entire process from form submission to identity verification can be completed online via a smartphone or computer.
What is Video KYC and is it mandatory?
Video KYC is a live video call with a bank official to verify your identity. It is mandatory for digital applications as it allows you to skip visiting a branch or meeting a field agent.
What documents do I need during the Video KYC call?
You must keep your original physical PAN card handy. A blank paper and a blue or black pen are also required to capture your live signature.
How long does approval take after applying?
If your Video KYC is successful and your income documents are clear, final approval typically takes 5 to 7 working days.
Can I apply if my Aadhaar is not linked to my mobile number?
Online applications require Aadhaar-based OTP verification. If they are not linked, you must complete a physical application at an HDFC Bank branch.
How do I check my credit card application status?
After applying, you receive an Application Reference Number. You can use this number on the bank's status tracking portal to see real-time updates.
That’s the full story of this credit card
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Top Benefits
Top Benefits
Get ₹1,000 Cashback
on PayZapp app shopping across 200+ partner brands
Earn 5% Cashback on Bill Payments & Mobile Recharge
on eligible electricity, water, broadband and mobile recharge transactions; capped at ₹150 per month across combined categories
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