Benefits of Paying Off Your Car Loan Early
- Save on interest: Every extra payment reduces your principal and the interest that accrues.
- Debt-free sooner: Shorten your loan term and enjoy debt-free vehicle ownership earlier.
- Improved cash flow: Once paid off, redirect your monthly payment to other financial goals.
- Reduced financial stress: Eliminate a monthly obligation from your budget.
Effective Early Payoff Strategies
- Regular additional payments: Add a set amount to your monthly payment.
- Bi-weekly payments: Make half your monthly payment every two weeks.
- Lump-sum payments: Apply tax refunds, bonuses, or other windfalls to your loan.
- Round up payments: Round your payment to the next $50 or $100 increment.
Tip: Before making extra payments, check if your loan has prepayment penalties and make sure to specify that additional payments should be applied to the principal.