Credit Acceptance's payment phone line and what to have ready
Credit Acceptance's customer service line for payments is 1-800-252-0900. When you call, have your account number ready — it appears on your monthly statement or payment coupon. You will also need the amount you want to pay and a debit card or bank account number if you are paying by phone.
The line is open during standard business hours, typically Monday through Friday. Wait times vary depending on call volume, so calling early in the morning or mid-week often means a shorter hold. If you reach an automated system first, you can usually choose a payment option from the menu without speaking to a representative.
Credit Acceptance also accepts payments through their online portal and by mail, which we cover below. The phone line is fastest if you need to pay when ready or have questions about your account at the same time.
Key Takeaways
- Call 1-800-252-0900 during business hours with your account number and payment amount ready.
- You can pay by debit card or bank account over the phone without setting up an online account first.
- Online payments through Credit Acceptance's website typically process the same day if made before 5 p.m. Eastern time.
- Mailed payments take 7 to 10 business days to reach the company, so send them well before your due date to avoid late fees.
- If you miss a payment, call when ready — Credit Acceptance may offer a short grace period before reporting the miss to credit bureaus.
What happens when you call to make a payment
When you reach a representative, they will confirm your identity using your account number and possibly the last four digits of your Social Security number or the phone number on file. This takes a minute or two. Then you tell them the amount you want to pay and the payment method — debit card or bank account.
The representative will read back the amount and confirm the payment will post to your account. Most phone payments process when ready, though it may take one business day for the payment to show in your online account. Ask the representative for a confirmation number before you hang up; write it down in case you need to reference the payment later.
If you are calling because you are behind on payments or expecting to miss one, mention that to the representative. Some Credit Acceptance accounts have hardship options, and the representative can tell you whether yours does.
Paying online instead of by phone
Credit Acceptance's website at creditacceptance.com has a payment portal where you can log in with your account number and make a one-time payment without calling. You do not need to create a login account — you can pay as a guest using your account number and the phone number or email on file.
Online payments usually process the same business day if you submit them before 5 p.m. Eastern time. This is often faster than calling, especially if you are paying outside business hours. The website also shows your current balance, due date, and payment history, which can be useful if you want to check something before paying.
If you prefer not to enter payment information online, the phone line remains your most direct option.
Mailing a check or money order
You can also mail a payment to the address on your statement or payment coupon. Write your account number on the check or money order. Mailed payments typically take 7 to 10 business days to arrive and post, so send them at least two weeks before your due date to avoid late fees.
Mailing is the slowest option and carries the risk that your payment arrives after the due date even if you send it on time. Use this method only if you do not have access to a phone or online payment, or if you prefer a paper record.
What to do if you cannot make a full payment
If you are short on money for your full payment, call 1-800-252-0900 and explain the situation. Credit Acceptance may allow a partial payment, though this does not stop a late fee from being charged if the full amount is not received by the due date. Some accounts have hardship programs that temporarily lower the payment or extend the due date, but you have to ask.
Paying something is better than paying nothing — it shows the lender you are trying, and it reduces the amount of interest that accrues. If you think you will miss the payment entirely, call before the due date rather than after. Lenders are more willing to work with borrowers who reach out early.
Late payments and credit reporting
Credit Acceptance reports payment history to credit bureaus. A payment that is 30 days late or more will appear on your credit report and damage your credit score. Even one late payment can lower your score by 100 points or more, depending on your current score.
If you are more than a few days late, call when ready. Some lenders will reverse a late report if you pay within a short window — usually 10 days — but you have to ask. The sooner you call, the better your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set up automatic payments with Credit Acceptance?
Yes. You can set up automatic payments through the website or by calling 1-800-252-0900. Automatic payments deduct your payment from your bank account on the due date each month, which removes the risk of forgetting to pay. You can change or stop automatic payments anytime by calling or logging into your account online.
What if I paid but my payment is not showing in my account?
Phone and online payments usually show within one business day. If you paid more than two business days ago and it is not showing, call 1-800-252-0900 with your confirmation number. The representative can look up the payment and tell you when it will post. Mailed payments take longer — allow 7 to 10 business days.
Can I pay someone else's Credit Acceptance loan?
Yes, but you will need their account number and permission. Call 1-800-252-0900 and provide the account number you are paying toward. The representative will confirm the account and process your payment. You do not need to be the account holder to make a payment.
What if I want to pay off my loan early?
You can pay extra at any time by calling or paying online. Ask the representative whether there is a prepayment penalty — some Credit Acceptance loans have them, though many do not. Paying extra reduces the total interest you will pay over the life of the loan.
Is there a fee for paying by phone?
No. Credit Acceptance does not charge a fee for phone payments. Online and mailed payments are also free. Some third-party payment services charge fees, but paying directly through Credit Acceptance's line or website costs nothing.