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01-08-23

How to Use Your Tax Refund As A Car Loan Down Payment

When tax time arrives, take advantage of the opportunity to find an auto loan that works for you. If you've got bad credit, there'll be certain criteria that need to be met to get approved – such as a down payment. Your tax refund could well provide the necessary funds! With this newfound financial boost from your taxes, it's easier than ever before to qualify and secure a car loan at Car Choice.

What are the Down Payment Requirements?

If you're a borrower with less-than-favorable credit, you likely need to work with a lender specifically devoted to helping people in tight financial predicaments. These lenders are referred to as subprime lenders and understand that individuals whose credit scores do not look good still require car loans. Subprime loan companies have extra requirements borrowers must meet which help compensate for the risk poor credit can bring about when buying a vehicle.

To mitigate their original risk, subprime loaners typically ask for a down payment. The exact amount varies but usually, it is around $1,000 or 10% of the car's cost. At Car Choice, we can people approved for vehicles with our in-house financing for as little as $500 down. Making an initial down payment doesn't only benefit the lender though; evidence suggests that those who shell out a significant sum upfront are much more likely to finish paying off their loans in full.

Making a larger down payment on your car loan can save you in the long run, minimizing interest and allowing you to keep more equity over time. Not only will this lower your monthly payments but also provide access to different loan options depending on the size of your deposit.

What are My Tax Refund and Down Payment Options?

Tax season is the perfect time to explore your options for a new vehicle. Not only can you benefit from deals that car dealers offer, but if you receive any additional money in your tax refund, then it can give you, even more, leeway when making such an expensive purchase. A lot of people in Arkansas might use their refunds to fund large purchases as saving up enough funds for a down payment can be difficult.

Even if your tax refund is insufficient to make a down payment, you don't have to despair. Cash isn’t the only way to put money down - most lenders will accept a combination of cash and equity from your car as meeting or surpassing their requirements for the initial deposit.

If you're interested in using the equity of your current car along with a tax refund, be sure to understand its value. You can get an approximate sale or trade-in rate for it by consulting reliable value sites like Kelley Blue Book or NADAguides.

To accurately determine the equity of your vehicle, compare your estimated value to the 10-day payoff amount of your car loan. If you owe more money than what it is worth, then unfortunately you have no equity that can be put toward a down payment – otherwise known as being in a negative equity position. On the other hand, if you own it outright and debt free, then its entire value is considered equity and could be used for any future loan payments!

Where Can I Find Bad Credit Car Loans?

When considering whether or not to offer you an auto loan, bad credit lenders evaluate a variety of factors that they deem necessary in assessing your financial capability. These include proof of stable employment and income levels sufficient enough to cover the car payments as well as any associated insurance premiums, along with having the required down payment.

Subprime lenders understand that you are more than your credit score, and seek to get you into a car loan that is affordable for you. To demonstrate this, they look at various elements - such as your income history and payment behavior - to determine your capability, stability, and willingness in taking on the loan.

At Car Choice, it can be difficult to find a dealer that works with special finance lenders. Thankfully, we've been connecting customers like you to reliable and quality vehicles across Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky for over a decade! Our process is easy: just fill out our credit application form without any obligations or risks — it's completely free and fast! Don't wait any longer - get on the road to your dream car now by submitting your application today.

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12-22-22

Do You Need a Down Payment to Buy a Car: Pros and Cons

It's a common misconception that you need a lot of money to buy a car. Many lenders will offer car loans without requiring a down payment. So you may be asking "Do you need a down payment to buy a car?". Not putting a down payment can be a great way to get into your dream car without breaking the bank. However, you should always shop around for the best interest rate and terms to make sure the vehicle you are buying fits your budget.

down payment written by marker

What is a down payment and is it necessary to put a down payment for a car?

A down payment is the amount of money paid in cash or the value of a trade-in vehicle at the time of purchase when buying a car. The required down payment can range from nothing to as much as 20%, depending on the lender, type of auto loan, and credit score. A down payment is important because it reduces the total amount owed throughout the loan, thereby reducing the amount of interest charged. It can also help to get you better auto loan terms and a lower monthly payment.

Pros of using a down payment to buy a car

One of the biggest benefits of putting money down on a car is that it reduces your total auto loan amount and lowers your monthly payments, making it easier to afford the vehicle in the long run. With a down payment, you may also be able to get better loan terms and a lower interest rate. Additionally, by putting money down upfront, you reduce the amount of risk that lenders take on when approving your loan application.

Cons of using a down payment to buy a car

The biggest downside to making a down payment when buying a car is that you have to come up with the cash upfront. This can be difficult for many people, especially if you’re already tight on money. Additionally, putting down too much money may put you in an uncomfortable financial position if something were to happen and you needed ready access to cash.

Overall, whether or not you should make a down payment when buying a car depends on your financial situation and the type of loan you can get. Be sure to shop around and compare lenders, as well as terms, before deciding whether or not to put money down on a vehicle. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide what’s best for your situation.

piece of paper that says credit score

What credit score is needed to buy a car with no money down?

When it comes to a no down payment loan, the credit score you need is dependent on the lender you choose and their criteria. Generally speaking, most lenders or credit unions require a minimum credit score of at least 620 or higher to qualify for a loan. To be safe, it's best to have a credit score of 700 or higher to get the lower interest rate and payment requirements. It's also worth noting that if you have a lower credit score, you may need to put money down to qualify for a loan. So be sure to shop around and compare lenders before making your decision.

The bottom line is that whether or not you should make a down payment when buying a car depends on your financial situation and the type of loan you can get. Be sure to consider all the pros and cons before deciding what’s best for you. With the right research, you can find a car loan that fits your needs without needing to put any money down.

interest rates written on chalkboard

How to get the best interest rates and terms on a no-money-down car loan?

When it comes to getting the best interest rates and terms on a car loan, it’s important to do your research and shop around for the best deal. There are several things you can do to increase your chances of securing good terms and a low rate, including having a good credit history, putting down a larger down payment, and having a steady source of income. Additionally, be sure to compare lenders and find one that will work with your individual needs and budget. With the right preparation, you can make sure that you get the best deal on your car loan.

The bottom line is that whether or not you should put money down on a car depends on your financial situation. Be sure to do your research, compare lenders, and make a decision that is best for you in the long run. And remember, with the right preparation and shopping around, you can get great loan terms and interest rates no matter what your budget allows.

consider your options written with a marker

Things to consider before buying a car with a no-money-down loan

Before deciding to buy a car without putting any money down, it is important to consider a few key factors. First and foremost, you should consider your financial situation and whether or not you have the ability to pay the full amount of the loan in full without interest. Additionally, research potential lenders and compare their loan terms and interest rates to ensure you get the best deal. Finally, consider the type of car you are buying and whether or not it is a wise investment for your needs and budget.

Overall, whether or not to buy a car without putting any money down depends entirely on your financial situation, what kind of terms and interest rates you can find, and if the car is worth the investment. Be sure to weigh all of these factors, as well as any additional benefits or incentives offered by lenders and dealerships, before making a final decision. With the right preparation and research, you can make sure that you get into the perfect new car or used car while also staying within your budget.

Conclusion

When it comes to buying a car, there are a lot of factors to consider. No matter whether you put money down on a car or not, it is important to do your research and shop around for the best deal at a car dealership. Be sure to compare lenders, understand your loan terms, review your interest charges, see if gap insurance is needed, and know the total purchase price of the vehicle before making a final decision. With a bit of preparation and research, you can get the car of your dreams without having to pay any money upfront.

If you are looking specifically for used cars and are experiencing bankruptcy, medical bills, repossessions, or any other situation that might lower your credit scores with credit unions; then view our inventory at Car Choice. We specialize in helping people with poor credit get in the vehicle that fits their needs.

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12-08-22

Can I Get a Car Loan with No Down Payment?

You've finally saved up enough money to buy a car. Congrats! But then you realize that you don't have enough for a down payment. Don't worry, you're not alone. Many people find themselves in the same situation whether that is due to bankruptcy, repossessions, being on a fixed income, or any other situational factor they may be experiencing. The good news is that there are car loans available that don't require a down payment.

Keep reading to understand what credit score is needed to buy a car with no money down, what is the lowest down payment for auto loans, and why you might need a no-down payment auto loan. Hopefully, after finishing this article you won't have to ask "Can I get a car loan with no money down payment?".

good credit and bad credit sign

What credit score is needed to buy a car with no money down?

A few requirements that you will need to increase your chance of approval for a no-money-down car loan are as follows. Keep in mind that the decision is up to your lender, but all lenders look for a similar combination of the following:

  • Your credit score from the credit union
  • Your current car's trade-in value (if applicable)
  • Purchase price of the car you want
  • Your desired monthly payment
  • Your proof of income (preferably at least a year)

Any type of car loans you want will have your credit score as a major contributing factor. In the case of a no-down-payment loan, it is especially paramount because rolling all extra car fees—sales tax, registration fee, title fee, dealership fees, etc.—into the car loan means you may need strong enough credit to be approved for a heftier load. If you want to apply for a no-money-down loan, your credit score should be at least decent.

According to Equifax, a good credit score is between 680 and 730. Furthermore, if you have a good credit score (at least 680), lenders will likely give you a lower interest rate on a conventional loan. However, bad credit car loans with no money down are not your conventional loan.

If you're looking to secure bad credit auto loans, lenders will want to see a few things from you. For one, they often prefer seeing car buyers trade in their old cars as part or all of their down payment. This will help offset the no money down for the auto financing from the lender.

Secondly, you must keep the total amount for the car purchase - plus any fees - well below your pre-approval offer limit. This will also help with your monthly payments for the loan amount.

Lastly, be vigilant for any potential red flags in your financial history or credit report that could come up during lending deliberations. The subprime lenders will review these things to make sure they are offering you the best option that fits your current situation.

It's important to remember that when you take out a car loan with no money down, the interest rates will be higher in the long term. The best way to avoid this is by having a trade-in vehicle However, this only works if there is equity in your current car--meaning it's worth more than any money still owed on it.

That said, some lenders may consider applicants with lower scores who have a solid history of reliable payments and other positive financial habits. If your credit is less than perfect, it's still possible to get approved for a car loan.

For people with lower credit scores, having a down payment ready can help strengthen your chances of getting approved for a car loan. If you don't have the funds for a down payment, consider speaking with the lender to see if they offer any incentive programs or deals that could make it easier for you to buy a car without having to put down a large sum upfront.

No matter what kind of credit score you have, it’s always important to shop around and compare rates from multiple lenders. Doing so can help you find the best deal and make sure that you get the most out of your car loan.

Note: This content is meant for general information purposes only. It should not be taken as financial advice. Please always consult a financial professional for tailored advice on your specific situation.

car payment written on calendar

What is the lowest down payment for auto loans?

With challenged credit, the usual minimum down payment you can make is 10% of the car's selling price or at least $1,000. Nevertheless, some lenders like Car Choice guaranteed approval may just accept the less expensive of these two prices or go below 10% of the car's selling price and below at least $1,000.

A high credit score typically means you have good credit. This usually entitles you to a lower down payment than someone with bad credit, since most lenders require a set minimum amount for borrowers with poor credit scores.

If you have good credit, oftentimes you won't be required to put as much money down. However, people with great credit often qualify for auto loans that are significantly larger, which means a 10% down payment could still be a lot of cash.

Nevertheless, it is possible to get approved for a loan with no down payment at all, depending on your credit score. Most lenders require a credit score of 680+ to consider an applicant for no money down financing, though some may make exceptions for lower scores. If you’re looking to buy a car with no money down, it’s important to shop around and compare rates from multiple lenders to make sure you get the best deal. Making a down payment can also help strengthen your chances of getting approved, even if it’s not required. Good luck!

Note: This content is meant for general information purposes only. It should not be taken as financial advice. Please always consult a financial professional for tailored advice on your specific situation.

car-loan-credit-application

Why You Might Need a No Down Payment Auto Loan 

There are a few reasons why you might need to finance a car without making a down payment. Maybe you don't have enough money saved up yet, or maybe you need to use all of your savings to cover other expenses. Whatever the reason, know that you're not alone and there are options available to you.

If you have experienced bankruptcy, then you may be required to get a no-money-down car loan. Many lenders won't accept down payments from applicants with a bankruptcy on their record. That said, the approval process for no-money-down loans can be more stringent, so it's important to make sure that you have a good credit score and other positive financial habits to increase your chances of getting approved.

For some reason, if you have a repossession on your credit record; then having a down payment may strengthen your chances of getting approved for an auto loan. This is because lenders are more likely to take a chance on financing someone who shows financial responsibility and a commitment to repay the loan by making down payment upfront.

No matter what your circumstances, it's important to remember that you don't have to put down a large amount of money upfront to buy a car. There are plenty of options for car buyers through potential lenders in the car buying process.

Conclusion

If you're thinking about getting an auto loan but don't have enough money for a down payment, know that the auto financing that is available to you is ultimately your decision. No down payment car loans can help you get into the car of your dreams without having to put any money down upfront. However, the monthly car payment may be higher for the term of your loan. At Car Choice, we offer guaranteed approval with as little as $500 down and low-interest rates. Fill out our credit application today for guaranteed approval on your next car loan.

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