Nationwide offers three main ways to pay your auto loan: online through their website or mobile app, by phone, or by mail
The fastest and most direct route is logging into your Nationwide account online at nationwide.com or using the Nationwide mobile app. Once you're signed in, you can make a one-time payment when ready, and the payment typically posts within one business day. You'll need your account number and routing information if you're paying from a bank account, or your debit or credit card details if you're using a card.
If you prefer not to use digital channels, you can call Nationwide's customer service line to make a payment by phone. A representative will walk you through the process and can answer questions about your account balance or payment history during the call. Phone payments also typically post within one business day.
Mailing a check or money order is an option, but it's the slowest method. Mail payments take several days to arrive and process, so if you're close to a due date, this route risks a late payment being recorded on your account. If you do mail a payment, include your account number on the check and send it to the address listed on your billing statement or the Nationwide website.
Key Takeaways
- Online and mobile app payments are the fastest option and post within one business day, with no fees charged by Nationwide.
- Phone payments work the same way as online payments and let you speak to a representative if you have questions about your account.
- Mailed payments take several days to process and may result in a late payment if your due date passes before the check arrives.
- You'll need your account number and either bank account details or a debit or credit card to make a payment through any method.
- Nationwide does not charge a fee for standard payments made through their website, app, or phone line.
Setting up automatic payments to avoid missed due dates
Nationwide allows you to set up automatic payments that deduct money from your bank account on a date you choose each month. This removes the risk of forgetting a payment and protects your credit score from late-payment marks. You can set up autopay through your online account or by calling customer service.
When you set up automatic payments, you choose the amount and the day of the month the payment will be deducted. Many borrowers choose the day after they receive their paycheck to may support the money is in their account. You can change or cancel automatic payments at any time through your account settings or by calling Nationwide.
What happens if you miss a payment or pay late
If your payment is not received by the due date shown on your billing statement, Nationwide will typically report the late payment to credit bureaus after 30 days. A single late payment can lower your credit score and may trigger a late fee, which Nationwide will add to your balance. The amount of the late fee varies by state and loan agreement, so check your loan documents or call to ask.
If you know you'll miss a due date, contact Nationwide before the date passes. In some cases, they may be able to extend your due date or work out a modified payment plan. Waiting until after you're late makes it much harder to avoid the credit damage and fees.
Understanding your payment breakdown and account balance
Each payment you make is split between principal (the amount you borrowed) and interest (the cost of borrowing). Early in your loan, most of your payment goes toward interest. As you pay down the loan, more of each payment goes toward principal. Your billing statement or online account shows this breakdown so you can see how much of your payment reduces what you actually owe.
Your account balance is the total amount you still owe on the loan, not including future interest. Making extra payments toward principal can shorten your loan term and save you money on interest over time. Some borrowers make one extra payment per year or add a small amount to their regular payment to pay off the loan faster.
Making extra payments or paying off your loan early
Nationwide does not charge a prepayment penalty, which means you can pay off your loan early without being penalized. You can make extra payments at any time through the same methods you use for regular payments—online, by phone, or by mail. When you make an extra payment, specify that it should go toward principal rather than being held as a credit toward future payments.
If you want to pay off your entire loan balance at once, contact Nationwide to ask for a payoff quote. This quote includes your current balance plus any interest that will accrue between now and your payoff date. The payoff amount changes daily because interest continues to accrue, so the quote is only good for a limited time, usually 10 to 15 days.
Troubleshooting payment problems and getting help
If a payment you made online or by phone doesn't show up in your account within two business days, log into your account to check the status. Nationwide's system usually shows pending payments, so you can confirm the payment was received. If the payment is not showing as pending and you're certain you submitted it, contact customer service with the date and amount of the payment.
If you're having trouble accessing your online account, resetting your password usually solves the problem. If you've forgotten your username or password, Nationwide's website has a recovery option that sends a reset link to your email. If you continue to have trouble logging in or making a payment, calling customer service is the fastest way to get help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a payment without logging into my account online?
Yes. You can call Nationwide's customer service line and make a payment by phone with a representative, or you can mail a check to the address on your billing statement. Both methods work without needing to set up or use an online account.
Is there a fee for paying online or by phone?
No. Nationwide does not charge a fee for standard payments made through their website, mobile app, or phone line. Some third-party payment processors may charge a fee if you use their service, but Nationwide's own channels are free.
How long does it take for a payment to show up in my account?
Online and phone payments typically post within one business day. Mailed payments take three to seven business days depending on mail delivery time and processing delays. Payments posted on weekends or holidays may not show until the next business day.
What if I want to pay my loan off completely before the end of the term?
Nationwide does not charge a prepayment penalty, so you can pay off your loan early without extra fees. Call Nationwide to request a payoff quote, which tells you the exact amount needed to close the loan. The quote is usually good for 10 to 15 days because interest continues to accrue daily.
Can I change my payment due date?
Yes. Contact Nationwide customer service to request a due date change. They can move your due date to a different day of the month, which can help if your paycheck arrives on a different schedule. Due date changes usually take effect on your next billing cycle.