Making a payment to Direct Auto
Direct Auto is a subprime auto lender that finances used cars for borrowers with lower credit scores. To make a payment, you can pay online through your account, by phone, by mail, or in person at a Direct Auto location. The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the payment processed and whether you have your account information handy.
Most payments made online or by phone are posted to your account within one business day. Payments by mail take longer — typically five to seven business days from when Direct Auto receives the envelope. In-person payments at a store location are usually processed when ready, though you should bring your account number or loan documents to speed up the process.
Key Takeaways
- You can pay Direct Auto online, by phone at 1-866-234-3278, by mail, or in person at any Direct Auto store location.
- Online and phone payments typically post within one business day, while mailed payments take five to seven business days to process.
- Your account number appears on your monthly statement and is required for most payment methods.
- If you are having trouble making a full payment, contact Direct Auto directly to ask about payment plans or deferment options.
Paying online through your Direct Auto account
The fastest and most convenient way to pay is through the Direct Auto website or mobile app. Go to directautoloan.com and log into your account using your username and password. If you do not have an online account yet, you can create one by entering your loan number and other identifying information.
Once logged in, look for a "Make a Payment" or "Pay Now" button, usually on your account dashboard. You will be asked to enter the amount you want to pay and choose your payment method — bank account (ACH transfer) or debit card. Bank account payments are free; debit card payments may carry a small fee depending on the processor. Review the payment amount and date before confirming, and you will receive a confirmation number when ready.
Paying by phone
Call Direct Auto's payment line at 1-866-234-3278. A representative will ask for your account number, which appears on your monthly statement, and the amount you want to pay. Have your checking account or debit card information ready if you plan to pay that way.
Phone payments are processed the same day you call during business hours, and the payment typically posts within one business day. Keep the confirmation number the representative gives you for your records. If you call outside business hours, you may be able to leave a message or use an automated system, but confirm the exact process when you reach the line.
Mailing a check or money order
If you prefer to pay by mail, send a check or money order to the address listed on your monthly statement. Write your account number on the check or money order so Direct Auto can match the payment to your loan. Include a copy of your statement if possible — it helps the company process the payment faster.
Mail payments take significantly longer than online or phone payments. Direct Auto typically receives mail within three to five business days, and then takes another one to two business days to post it to your account. To avoid late fees, mail your payment at least one week before your due date. If you are cutting it close, use online or phone payment instead.
Paying in person at a Direct Auto store
You can walk into any Direct Auto location and make a payment at the counter. Bring your account number or a recent statement so the staff can pull up your loan quickly. You can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card, depending on the store's policy.
In-person payments are posted to your account when ready or within the same business day. This method works well if you are already near a Direct Auto store or if you need to discuss your account with a representative in person. Use the store locator on directautoloan.com to find the location nearest you and confirm their hours before you go.
What happens if you miss a payment or cannot pay in full
If your payment is late, Direct Auto will charge a late fee and may report the missed payment to credit bureaus, which damages your credit score. If you know you cannot make your full payment by the due date, contact Direct Auto before the important date. Explain your situation and ask whether they offer a payment plan, deferment, or loan modification.
Some lenders will work with borrowers who are facing temporary hardship, though this depends on your loan terms and payment history. The sooner you reach out, the more options you may have. Waiting until after you miss a payment makes it harder to negotiate and increases the fees you owe.
Understanding your payment and account details
Your monthly statement shows your account number, current balance, minimum payment due, and due date. The statement also breaks down how much of your payment goes toward principal (the amount you borrowed) and how much goes toward interest. Early in your loan, most of each payment covers interest; as you pay down the loan, more goes toward principal.
If you pay more than the minimum, the extra amount reduces your principal and shortens the life of the loan, saving you money on interest. Some Direct Auto loans allow you to make extra payments without penalty, though you should confirm this with your lender. Paying ahead can also help if you know a month is coming when you will struggle to pay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set up automatic payments with Direct Auto?
Yes. When you log into your online account or call the payment line, you can arrange for automatic payments from your bank account on your due date each month. This prevents missed payments and late fees. You can change or cancel automatic payments anytime through your account or by calling customer service.
What if I paid but my payment has not posted yet?
Online and phone payments typically post within one business day. Mail payments take five to seven business days. If you paid more than a week ago and it still has not posted, log into your account or call 1-866-234-3278 to confirm the payment was received and ask when it will appear.
Is there a fee for paying online or by phone?
Paying by bank account (ACH) online is free. Debit card payments online or by phone may have a small fee — usually $1 to $3 — depending on the payment processor. The fee will be shown before you confirm the payment. Paying by mail or in person at a store has no fee.
What if I want to pay off my entire loan early?
You can pay off your loan at any time without penalty. Contact Direct Auto to ask for a payoff quote, which shows the exact amount needed to close the loan as of a specific date. Interest stops accruing once you pay the full amount, so paying early saves you money compared to making minimum payments for the full loan term.
Can I make a payment if I do not have an online account?
Yes. You can pay by phone at 1-866-234-3278, by mail, or in person at a Direct Auto store. You will need your account number, which is on your monthly statement. Creating an online account takes just a few minutes and gives you access to your balance and payment history anytime.