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Can You Pay Affirm with a Credit Card?
May 14, 2025
Quick Answer
Affirm does not accept credit cards for making loan payments.
Should You Pay Affirm With A Credit Card?
Using a credit card for Affirm payments has both potential upsides and downsides.
Benefits
- Earning Rewards: You can accumulate credit card rewards like points, miles, or cash back on your loan payments.
- Payment Flexibility: It provides a way to make on-time Affirm payments if you are temporarily low on cash, helping you avoid late fees.
- Convenience: Setting up automatic payments with a credit card can help prevent missed payment deadlines.
Costs
- High-Interest Debt: If you carry a balance, your credit card's interest rate is likely much higher than Affirm's APR.
- Potential Fees: Some card issuers may process the payment as a cash advance, which incurs steep fees and immediate interest.
- Negating 0% APR: You could turn an interest-free Affirm loan into a debt that accrues high interest on your credit card.
- Increased Utilization: It adds to your credit card balance, increasing your credit utilization ratio.
How to Pay Affirm With A Credit Card
Paying off your Affirm loan with a credit card can be a smart financial move. This guide outlines the general steps to manage your payments effectively and potentially earn valuable rewards.
- Confirm Affirm’s Policy: First, verify that your specific Affirm loan allows for credit card payments. Policies can vary, so check your loan agreement or the Affirm help center for the most current information on accepted payment methods.
- Choose the Right Card: Select a credit card that maximizes your benefit. Look for cards with rewards on general spending or a 0% introductory APR. To find a card that fits your needs, consider using a resource like the Kudos' Explore Cards tool to compare options.
- Understand Potential Fees: Be aware that your credit card issuer might classify the payment as a cash advance. This could trigger high fees and immediate interest accrual. Always review your card’s terms and conditions before proceeding.
- Make the Payment: Log in to your Affirm account and navigate to the payment section. If available, select the credit card payment option, enter your details, and complete the transaction. Keep the confirmation for your records.
Impact On Your Credit Score
Using a credit card to pay for your Affirm loan can influence your credit score in several ways. Here are the key factors to consider before making a decision.
- Credit Utilization Ratio. Charging your Affirm purchase to a credit card increases your overall balance. This raises your credit utilization ratio, which could temporarily lower your credit score if it gets too high.
- Payment History. You'll need to manage two separate payments: one to Affirm and one to your credit card company. Missing a payment on either account can negatively affect your credit history and score.
- Credit Inquiries. Affirm may perform a hard credit check when you first apply for a loan. This can cause a small, temporary dip in your credit score, regardless of your payment method.
Alternative Ways To Pay Affirm
Pay Without a Credit Card
Affirm provides several payment options if you prefer not to use a credit card. You can link a debit card or your bank account directly for payments via ACH transfer. This allows you to manage your buy now, pay later plan without incurring potential credit card interest. Simply select your desired payment method within the Affirm app or on the website when you’re ready to make a payment.
Utilize Autopay for Convenience
For a hands-off approach, consider enabling Autopay. This feature automatically withdraws your scheduled payment from your linked bank account or debit card on its due date, helping you avoid missed payments and potential late fees. You can manage this setting directly in your Affirm account, turning it on or off as needed to fit your financial schedule and maintain control over your payments.
Choose the Right Card to Pay Affirm
With over 3,000 credit cards available in the U.S., finding the one that best suits your spending habits and financial goals can be a challenge. Whether you want to maximize rewards, secure a low interest rate, or avoid annual fees, Kudos’ Explore Tool can help. It personalizes recommendations based on your preferences, allowing you to compare options side-by-side and find your perfect card.
For those wanting to maximize their credit card benefits, Kudos is the ultimate free tool for online shopping. We're also offering $20 back after your first qualifying purchase when you sign-up for free with code “GET20” and shop at a Boost-enabled store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will using a credit card for Affirm payments affect my credit score?
Yes, it can increase your credit utilization ratio, which might temporarily impact and lower your overall credit score.
Are there extra fees for paying Affirm with a credit card?
Affirm doesn't charge fees, but your card issuer might classify the payment as a cash advance, incurring fees.
Can I earn credit card rewards on my Affirm payments?
You can often earn rewards, but this depends entirely on your credit card's specific rewards program and its terms.
Supercharge Your Credit Cards
Experience smarter spending with Kudos and unlock more from your credit cards. Earn $20.00 when you sign up for Kudos with "GET20" and make an eligible Kudos Boost purchase.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
