When saving money pivots to the top of your priorities, an auto refinance may be an opportunity to create instant savings on your monthly auto payment. Everyone’s financial situation is unique, so it may or may not be a financial fit for everyone.
Here's How:
When you refinance your auto loan, what is actually happening is your loan is being paid off and the balance is transferred to a new lender (who may have a better rate and/or term like SafeAmerica’s current auto refinance promotion).
When It Makes The Most Cents:
The whole point of refinancing is to purposely switch from your current interest rate and payment terms to a lower interest rate and better terms. Of course, shopping around for lower rates is the first step towards identifying if you can create monthly savings for yourself.
Maybe you obtained a higher earning position since you first took out your auto loan or even have seen an improvement to your credit score. Either way your chances of qualifying for a lower rate are dramatically higher than when you first got your auto loan interest rate.
While lenders use numerous factors which all contribute toward the determination of your rate, a good point of reference would be to focus on your debt-to-income ratio along with checking if your credit score has improved.
Here's Another Situation To Consider:
If you are unable to qualify for a better rate, you may be able to extend your repayment period. While you would be extending the amount of interest paid, you would be reducing the amount of money owed on your monthly payment. Just know, you will be paying more interest over the life of the loan even with your monthly payments being smaller.
Do your research and make sure to shop around for rates and terms you are comfortable with and more importantly, make the best decision for your specific financial situation. Be aware of any fees lenders may charge to refinance your auto loan. It's also important to be aware of your vehicle’s equity, age and total mileage. All are important vehicle trait’s lenders take into consideration and ultimately determine if your vehicle qualifies for refinance.
Credit unions more often than not, offer incentives and reduce fees to attract members and help them save. See what SafeAmerica Credit Union has to offer for Refinancing your Auto Loan!