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How Many Times Can You Defer a Payment With Gm Financial?

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Lisa Greenstein

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Dec 21, 2023, 11:44:32 PM12/21/23
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GM Financial provides many customers with the flexibility to defer vehicle payments when unexpected financial difficulties arise. In this in-depth guide, we'll explore the policies, guidelines, alternatives, and key considerations related to utilizing this important program.

How Many Deferrals Are Allowed?

GM Financial understands that life doesn't always go according to plan. That's why they permit account holders in good standing to defer up to three total payments over the lifetime of their auto loan or lease. One deferral per year is typical, subject to credit approval each time.

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Maintaining Account Eligibility

To remain eligible, your GM Financial account must be in good standing with no late payments in the last six months. The payment you wish to defer also cannot already be past due. You can only have one active deferral at a time and must wait until the deferred due date passes before requesting another. Deferrals are not approved for the final payment.

Interest Continues to Accrue

While GM Financial assists customers facing temporary hardship, they are also a business. When you defer a payment, interest keeps accruing daily on your outstanding balance just as it would if you paid on time. This slightly increases the total interest paid over the life of the loan or lease. Be aware that each deferred payment may extend your term by one month.

Alternative Options to Consider First

Prior to deferring, explore less costly alternatives like reducing discretionary spending, liquidating assets, finding temporary work, requesting help from family or establishing a zero-interest bridge loan from a nonprofit. Communicating proactively with GM Financial about your situation is also prudent, as they may be open to briefly adjusting your payment amount instead of a full deferral. Fully understanding all deferral consequences versus actively solving issues is important.

Drawbacks of Over-Utilizing Deferrals

While intended for temporary relief, frequently delaying obligations can damage your credit report and score. Each approved deferral remains visible for seven years and multiple requests in quick succession may impact your creditworthiness over time. Accounts utilizing deferrals excessively also present higher risk from the lender perspective. Relying extensively on deferrals could jeopardize future financing approvals or terms.

Maintaining Your Payment History

Building a strong, consistent payment history is ideal for maintaining the best credit and access to financing. GM Financial strives to offer flexibility though habitual deferring cannot continue indefinitely without consequence. With prudent use of available options and a commitment to prompt repayment, customers can leverage this program responsibly when needed most. But utilizing deferrals as the primary solution reinforces financial hardship long-term.

Key Takeaways

In summary, the key things to understand about GM Financial's deferral program include:

- Up to three total deferrals permitted with good standing

- At most one deferral annually subject to approval

- Interest continues accruing on deferred amounts

- Alternatives like adjusting payments should be explored first

- Over-relying on deferrals risks future credit and financing

- Proactive communication is advised when difficulties arise

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I defer just a partial payment amount?

No, GM Financial only approves deferrals of the full payment amount due for an individual month.

Q: How far in advance do I need to request a deferral?

Most requests should be submitted 5-10 business days before your due date for timely processing. Earlier is better to allow flexibility if denied.

Q: What happens if I miss payments after using all deferrals?

Your account will be considered delinquent and late fees may apply until the overdue balance is paid. This can damage your credit if not resolved promptly.

Q: Can previously deferred payments affect my ability to purchase/finance another vehicle?

Payment history is an important factor lenders review. Multiple or recent deferrals on your credit report could cause higher interest rates or financing denial for new vehicle transactions.

Q: If I don't use all available deferrals, do they expire?

No, the three deferral lifetime maximum remains regardless of if the full amount is utilized. You may save approved deferrals for future qualifying instances of unplanned financial difficulties.

In closing, GM Financial's deferral program provides some payment flexibility when used judiciously. But maintaining responsible account practices and promptly resolving challenges is key to benefit long-term. Communication is also important - GM Financial representatives want to assist customers through difficult periods.
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