In our country the question of developing a credit policy remains important and paramount, so far there is no single answer to it. The article proposes the point of view of scientists on the concept of "credit policy", which is a system of principles established by the central bank and the state in the credit sphere with the purpose of regulating the credit process in banks. Credit policy should form the content of the loan portfolio and establish standards for making credit decisions, it is analyzed its direction. The principles of balanced credit policy, as well as its main stages, are systematized. The credit policy of a commercial bank must contain rules for the implementation of specific goals, including standards and instructions that represent the methodological support for its implementation. It is proved, that credit policy of a commercial bank is a combination of its credit strategy and credit tactics. The credit policy features are prescribed, which should be reflected in the bank's internal documents. Determination and improvement of credit policy means to formulate and consolidate in the necessary internal documents the position of the management of the bank. The goals of the bank in conducting a balanced credit policy, the functions of the credit policy, macro- and microfactors affecting it are indicated. Goals and standards of lending are determined in accordance with the strategic development plan of the bank and can be formulated both in the long-term development plan and in the budget of the bank for the current year. The importance of the principles of rational lending and the composition of lending standards are emphasized. The development of a credit policy of any bank depends on a number of factors, among which macrofactors and microprocessors can be identified. Functions of credit policy are: commercial functions, control functions, stimulating function, specific functions. The credit policy of banks when working with legal entities is aimed at developing long-term relationships with borrowers, in article the criteria for selecting clients for cooperation are determined.