CareCredit FAQs

What is CareCredit?

CareCredit is a smart financing solution that helps consumers pay for health and wellness expenses over time and gives healthcare providers a way to offer flexible payment options to their patients and clients.* It offers two options: the CareCredit credit card for ongoing use at participating locations, and CareCredit Pay Later loans for select purchases. The CareCredit credit card at over 290,000 provider and retail locations across 50+ specialties like cosmetic, dentistry, vision, vet, hearing and more, and offers promotional financing options to help fit care into your budget.* If you are approved for the CareCredit Rewards Mastercard®, you will enjoy all the benefits of the CareCredit credit card plus the ability to use it for purchases everywhere Mastercard is accepted, and select purchases earn points that can be redeemed for rewards.

What can you use CareCredit credit card for?

Your CareCredit credit card can be used at over 290,000 locations nationwide for a variety of healthcare services including LASIK, veterinary, dentistry, cosmetic surgery, hearing care and more.* Once you have the CareCredit credit card, you can use it over and over for yourself, your family, and even your pets without reapplying, as long as you have available credit. Search online to find the nearest locations where you can use your CareCredit credit card. If approved for the CareCredit Rewards Mastercard, you can use your card everywhere Mastercard is accepted and earn points on select purchases.**

Where can I use my CareCredit credit card near me?

The CareCredit credit card is trusted by 12M+ cardholders and accepted at over 290,000 provider and retail locations nationwide, including partners like Walgreens, Walmart®, and Sam’s Club.*** To find who accepts it near you, use the CareCredit Provider Locator and search by zip code and category, then confirm with the provider when scheduling. Once you find a participating location, paying for care can be simple.*

How can I increase my CareCredit credit limit, and why might my limit have decreased?

You can request a credit limit increase anytime in the CareCredit mobile app, online or by calling the credit specialists at (866) 893-7864.

If approved for the CareCredit Rewards Mastercard, it is accepted everywhere Mastercard is accepted.

How can I add an authorized user to my CareCredit credit card?

An Authorized User can be added by logging into your account and clicking on Services; Authorized Users or by calling our Customer Care Center at (866) 893-7864. The primary Cardholder will be liable for all purchases made on the Account, including those made by an authorized user.

How do I submit a cardholder deceased notification?

To assist during this difficult time, Synchrony offers an online deceased notification form option to provide Synchrony Bank, the issuer of the CareCredit credit card, with the notification of the passing of the cardholder. The account record will be updated upon receipt of your submission. We may reach back out to the Representative of the cardholder if there are additional questions.

What does it mean for a Provider to have a CareCredit certification?

CareCredit Certification for enrolled Providers helps ensure that every CareCredit card applicant is given a clear, easy-to-understand explanation of financing options available. This Certification acknowledges the Provider's dedication and knowledge in providing consistent and accurate information to their patients/clients, so the patient/client can make well-informed decisions about how to manage the out-of-pocket costs of their care. This Certification is renewed every two years to help ensure that patients/clients are given the most current information.

If you are a Provider, visit https://www.carecreditprovidercenter.com/portal/login to become CareCredit Certified.

How do I see if I prequalify and apply for a CareCredit credit card?

The easiest and fastest way to see if you prequalify for CareCredit is to use this link. You will get the prequalification decision within seconds and, if you prequalify, you can apply right away, with confidence. If you are approved, you will either be approved for the CareCredit credit card or the CareCredit Rewards Mastercard. To learn more about the CareCredit Rewards Mastercard click here.

You can also apply over the phone, toll free, at (800) 677-0718. If you choose to call, you can use our automated system 24/7 or you can apply with a live agent between 9:00am-9:00pm Monday-Friday, Eastern Time. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age to apply by phone (must be 18 or older to apply). Applicants by phone must have written copy of the credit card agreement before proceeding, which can be printed from carecredit.com or you can obtain from your provider. In addition, you can apply at healthcare provider locations that accept CareCredit. At this time, applications via a provider are only for the CareCredit credit card. If you would like your application to also be considered for the CareCredit Rewards Mastercard please apply at carecredit.com/apply.

How can I apply for CareCredit?

See if you prequalify with a soft credit check that won’t affect your credit score, and get a credit decision in about six seconds. If you’re approved, you can use CareCredit the same day at participating providers and locations for eligible purchases.

What credit score do you need for CareCredit approval?

Many people who are approved for CareCredit typically have a fair to good credit score, though some may be approved with lower scores depending on overall creditworthiness. If you’re not sure where you stand, you can see if you prequalify in about six seconds with no impact to your credit score (a soft credit check) and view your potential credit limit before you apply.

Can I choose whether I get a CareCredit credit card or CareCredit Rewards Mastercard?

No. Your application will be considered first for the CareCredit Rewards Mastercard and then for the CareCredit credit card. Credit decisions are based on credit requirements set by Synchrony Bank.

What are the differences between a CareCredit credit card and CareCredit Rewards Mastercard?

Both cards are accepted at over 290,000 CareCredit network locations, and promotional financing is available on qualifying purchases. The CareCredit Rewards Mastercard can be used for purchases everywhere Mastercard is accepted and also earns points on select purchases that can be redeemed for rewards Learn more at carecredit.com/mastercard.

Why are there different interest rates on the CareCredit credit card application?

The APR is 32.99% for new accounts (as of 5/30/24). Existing cardholders should see their credit card agreement for applicable terms. Penalty APR 39.99%.The Minimum Interest Charge is $2. CareCredit Rewards Mastercard: Cash APR 32.99% and 4% Fee ($10 min). Bal Trans APR 32.99% and 5% Fee ($5 min). Foreign Trans Fee 3%.

CareCredit also offers No interest if Paid in Full Within 6, 12, 18 and 24 month promotional financing options (sometimes called Deferred Interest) on qualifying purchases of $200 or more with monthly payments. These promotions let you pay over time, and interest accrues during the promotional period from the purchase date but will not be charged if you pay your promotional balance in full by the end of the promotional period. Minimum monthly payments required.†

Our Reduced APR special financing options of 24, 36, 48, and 60 months are for larger purchase amounts, letting you make required fixed monthly payments until paid in full with a reduced interest rate. Purchases of $1,000 or more may be eligible for a 24-month offer with a 17.90% APR, a 36-month offer with a 18.90% APR or a 48-month offer with a 19.90% APR. Purchases of $2,500 or more may be eligible for a 60-month offer with a 20.90% APR.††

What happens if I apply with a co-signer?

Your joint applicant is applying jointly with you for credit. If approved, the joint applicant will also receive a CareCredit card, and is jointly responsible for all charges to the account, including the charges of any authorized user.

My provider said I can avoid paying interest, so why is there an interest rate listed on the application?

With No Interest if Paid in Full promotional financing options, you can avoid interest on your promotional balance if you pay it in full by the end of the promotional period. This can be a helpful way to manage health and wellness expenses over time. If you do not pay the balance in full by the promotional deadline, interest will be charged from the purchase date. Promotional financing is only available at providers in the CareCredit network and select retailers, but not everywhere else Mastercard is accepted. For those purchases, standard account terms apply. For complete details on your CareCredit account, consult your Credit Card Account Agreement.

What does “prequalify” mean and what are the benefits?

When you see if you prequalify online, you find out if you are likely to be approved for a CareCredit credit card. Plus, it’s quick and there’s no impact to your credit score to check if you prequalify. If you receive an offer of credit and apply, there will be a hard inquiry on your credit report which may impact your credit score.

Will prequalifying impact my credit score?

No. You can see if you’re likely to be approved with no impact to your credit score. If you receive an offer of credit and accept it, there will be a hard inquiry on your credit report, and it may impact your credit score.

What credit bureau does CareCredit pull from?

CareCredit, through its issuing bank, may check one or more major credit bureaus when you apply. Which bureau(s) are used can vary, so for the most accurate answer, review your application disclosures or contact customer service.

What is the difference between a soft inquiry and a hard inquiry?

Soft inquiries usually occur when lenders are considering you for prequalified offers of credit. Only you and your credit bureau can see them on your credit report, and soft inquiries don’t affect your credit score. Hard inquiries typically occur when you apply for a credit card, mortgage or other loan. Other lenders can see hard inquires, and hard inquiries could affect your credit score.

Are prequalified offers guaranteed?

No, prequalified offers are not guaranteed. But you are very likely to be approved. You’ll still need to complete a full application for final decision, which will result in a hard inquiry that may impact your credit score.

How long is my prequalification offer good for?

A prequalified offer is valid for the current browser session only. If you close the page, you can submit a new prequalification request.

What if I don’t prequalify?

If you don’t receive an offer to apply, you can consider applying with a joint applicant.

How does the prequalification process work?

The prequalification process is simple!

• Start the prequalification process by clicking “Check Now.”
• Enter all requested information.
• Find out if you prequalify.
• If you receive an offer, you must apply during the same browser session.

Can I prequalify over the phone?

Currently, prequalification is only available online. You can apply over the phone, toll free, at (800) 677-0718 or in person at a provider office (Must be 18 or older to apply, must be 21 or older to apply by phone).

Are there any additional actions needed to take after receiving the

Yes, you’ll need to confirm you received the Terms and Conditions, accept the prequalification offer, and submit your application.

What can I use CareCredit for?

You can use CareCredit to pay for more than a thousand of eligible health and wellness expenses at participating provider and retail locations.* That includes categories like dental, vision, veterinary, hearing and more. To confirm whether a specific provider or purchase is eligible, check the CareCredit Locator or talk to your provider.

How do I pay my doctor or provider online?

Use your CareCredit credit card to pay healthcare bills online. Whether it’s a recent visit to the dentist, your pet’s vaccinations or your sister’s LASIK treatment – CareCredit makes it easy for you to pay on time. Make an online payment to a provider in the CareCredit network.

How do I activate my CareCredit card, and how can I tell if it’s already activated?

You will receive your first billing statement within 30 days of making a purchase with your card. Once you receive your first statement, review it carefully to confirm the purchase details and payment due dates so you can stay on track with any promotional financing offer.

When will I receive my first CareCredit bill?

You will receive your first billing statement within 30 days of making a purchase with your card. Once you receive your first statement, review it carefully to confirm the purchase details and payment due dates so you can stay on track with any promotional financing offer.

How can I use and apply for CareCredit for dental costs?

You can use CareCredit to help you pay for dental care at participating dentists. To find who accepts it near you, use the CareCredit Provider Locator and search by zip code and category, then confirm with the provider when scheduling. If approved, you may be able to use promotional financing to pay over time on purchases of $200 or more at dentists in the network. You can apply online or at a participating dental office, and use your account for your visit the same day.*

What pharmacies accept CareCredit?

CareCredit is accepted at Walgreens and Duane Reade locations nationwide in the U.S. (in-store only). You can find pharmacies that accept CareCredit by using the CareCredit Acceptance Locator pharmacy search here.

How can I use CareCredit for pet and veterinary care, and how does it work?

The CareCredit credit card is accepted at participating veterinary clinics and animal hospitals for pet care expenses. If the vet practice accepts CareCredit, you can use it to pay for services and then repay the balance over time.* Promotional financing options are available on purchases of $200+.Use the CareCredit Acceptance Locator to search for veterinarians in your area by zip code, or call your preferred vet to confirm they accept CareCredit. In general, it’s always a good practice to ask your vet what payment options they accept before treatment begins.

What can I buy at Walmart with CareCredit, and how do I use it?

CareCredit is accepted on Walmart.com for eligible/qualified health and wellness product purchases. To use it, shop at Walmart or on Walmart.com, add health and wellness items to your cart, then select CareCredit as your payment method at checkout. (Online, only items sold and shipped by Walmart are eligible, i.e., no third-party sellers, may be purchased with the CareCredit card.) For more information, including about eligible expenses, visit https://www.carecredit.com/walmart/.

Where can I use my CareCredit Rewards Mastercard†† — can I use it anywhere?

The CareCredit Rewards Mastercard can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted in addition to CareCredit provider locations.

What can I buy at Walgreens with CareCredit, and how do I use my CareCredit card there?

CareCredit is accepted at all Walgreens and Duane Reade locations in the U.S. To pay, swipe or insert your card. You can buy most items, except lottery tickets, gift cards/reloads, alcohol and tobacco. The CareCredit credit card is only accepted in-store at Walgreens at this time.

How do I use CareCredit without my physical card (including adding it to Apple Wallet), and what should I do if my digital card isn’t available?

If you don’t have your physical card with you, you may be able to use CareCredit by accessing your digital card in the CareCredit Mobile App. If you have the CareCredit Rewards Mastercard, you can also use it through Apple Pay by adding the card to Apple Wallet.

How do I check my CareCredit balance?

You can check your CareCredit balance by signing in to your account online and viewing your electronic statement, or by calling CareCredit customer service at (866) 893-7864.

Who accepts CareCredit for hearing aids?

Many participating hearing care providers, including audiologists, accept CareCredit for hearing devices and related services. Use the CareCredit Acceptance Locator to find hearing providers near you, and confirm directly with the office which promotional financing options are available.

How can I find out about my providers’ CareCredit promotions?

Not all providers offer all promotional financing options so please check with your healthcare providers on which financing options they offer.

Can I pay a portion of the treatment cost myself and use CareCredit for the remainder?

Yes, you can use the CareCredit health and wellness credit card for a portion of your balance up to your available credit line.

Can I pay for multiple procedures at one time with my CareCredit health and wellness credit card?

Yes, you can use your card for as many purchases up to your available credit limit for services or products to be delivered within 30 days.

Does my CareCredit credit card expire?

Your CareCredit credit card has an expiration date, but as long as your account is in good standing you will automatically be sent a replacement card for your continued use anywhere the CareCredit credit card is accepted. Using your card at least once a year will help you keep your account active.

How do I use CareCredit online?

Search our network of 285K+ enrolled locations to see if your doctor or provider accepts CareCredit online. Choose the provider you wish to pay and follow the prompts. When complete, you will both receive a payment confirmation email. Pay your provider online now. The CareCredit Rewards Mastercard can be used anywhere Mastercard is accepted online.

How can I request a credit limit increase?

You can request a credit limit increase anytime in the CareCredit mobile app, online or contact our team of credit specialists at (866) 893-7864 to review your needs and assist you with a credit limit increase on your CareCredit account.†††

What is CareCredit Pay Later?

CareCredit Pay Later is a one-time-use loan that offers predictable monthly payments and a clear payoff timeline, so you can pay over time with a fixed APR and loan term.* It’s available at select provider locations within the CareCredit network.

Can I open a CareCredit Pay Later loan with a joint applicant?

No, you cannot apply with a joint applicant for a CareCredit Pay Later loan.

How do I make a loan payment?

You will receive a link in your welcome email to sign in to a portal where you can review loan details, make payments, enroll in autopay and more.

Where can I apply for a CareCredit Pay Later loan?

You can apply for a CareCredit Pay Later loan at select provider locations. Ask your provider if they offer the CareCredit credit card and CareCredit Pay Later.

Where can I use my CareCredit Pay Later loan?

If approved, your loan may be used for the specific purchase made at the location where you applied.

When is my first CareCredit Pay Later loan payment due?

Your first payment is due approximately 25 days after the loan agreement is finalized. You’ll also receive email reminders before upcoming loan payments.Deferred Interest

What is deferred interest?

A: Deferred interest is a promotional financing offer that means you won’t be charged interest on an eligible purchase as long as you pay the full promo balance within the period you agreed to (for example, 6, 12, 18, or 24 months, depending on the offer).

Here’s the key benefit: It gives you the option to spread out the cost of a health, dental or vet expense over time with no interest as long as you pay the balance in full by the end of promotional period.

How does deferred interest work?

With deferred interest, you can spread out payments over time. If you pay the full promotional balance by the end of the promo period, you won’t be charged interest. If you don’t pay it off in full by the end of the promo period, interest that accrued from the purchase date will be added to your balance.

How do CareCredit promotional financing offers work, and how long can they last?

CareCredit offers promotional financing on purchases of $200 or more. Depending on the offer and provider, you may be able choose No Interest if Paid in Full on purchases of 6, 12, 18 or 24 months (interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the promotional balance is not paid in full within the period they agreed to; minimum monthly payments required)**; or and Reduced APR plan with fixed monthly payments for 24, 36, 48 and 60 months on higher purchase amounts.† Not all providers offer all options, so check yours for details.

I’m seeing “No Interest if Paid in Full.” What does that actually mean?

When an offer says, “No Interest if Paid in Full Within 6, 12, 18 or 24 months” (depending on the offer), it usually means it’s a deferred interest promotional financing offer. In simple terms, you won’t be charged interest on the purchase if you pay the full balance by the end of the promotional period.

These offers can be helpful if you want to spread out payments and pay off the balance in full by the end of the promo period.

What if I can’t pay off the promotional balance by the end date?

If the promotional balance isn’t paid in full by the end of the promotional period, deferred interest charges will be applied to your account from the purchase date. If you’re concerned about paying it off in time, it’s a good idea to plan your payments so the full promotional balance is paid off by the promotion's end date. You can also check your statement, online account or mobile app for your promotional end date and remaining balance.

How do I find my promotional end date?

You can find your promotional end date on your billing statement in the promotional expiration section, or by logging into your CareCredit online account or mobile app.

How can I see my remaining promotional balance?

Your remaining promotional balance appears on your billing statement in the special promotional purchases section, and you can also view it in your online account or the CareCredit mobile app.

What’s a simple way to pay the purchase balance by the end of the promotional deadline?

Create a payoff plan from day one:

• Note the promotional purchase amount
• Divide it by the number of promotional months
• Pay at least that amount each month (consider adding a small cushion)

Example: $1,200 on a 12month promotion → target $100/month (or a bit more to be safe).

What’s the most important thing to know about deferred interest?

A key thing to remember about deferred interest is that you need to pay the full balance by the promotional deadline. If the balance is not paid off by then, deferred interest charges will apply from the purchase date. To get the full benefit of the promotion, the purchase balance must be $0 by the end of the promotional period you agreed to.

What’s an easy way to avoid paying deferred interest charges?

One easy way to avoid deferred interest charges is to pay enough each month, so the full promotional purchase balance is paid off by the end of the promo period. If you only make minimum monthly payments, you may still have a balance when the promotion ends. To help avoid deferred interest charges or needing to make a large payment at the end of the promotional period, consider paying more than the minimum and make steady, equal monthly payments toward paying the balance off in full.

What are the primary benefits of deferred interest promotions?

The main benefit of a deferred interest promotion is flexibility:

• You can spread a larger expense into convenient monthly payments
• If you pay the full promotional balance by the end of the promo period, you won’t be charged interest.

This can be a helpful budgeting tool for planned or unexpected health, vet or dental costs.

What happens if I have a late payment? How do late payments affect the promotion?

Late payments can affect your promotion depending on the issuer and promotion terms. In some cases, you may be charged a late fee and/or certain promotional financing offers may no longer apply.

CareCredit does not cancel promotional financing offers because of late payments, but you will still be charged a late fee.

Be sure to review the promotion terms and your cardholder agreement for the exact details.

How is deferred interest different from a “0% intro APR” offer?

These are two different types of promotions:

• Deferred interest: Interest starts adding up from the purchase date, but you won’t be charged that interest if you pay the full promotional balance by the end of promo period you agreed to.
• 0% intro APR: You won’t be charged interest during the introductory period, as long as the offer terms are met. After that period ends, the standard APR on the account applies.

What makes promotional financing with the CareCredit credit card a preferred and safe option compared with 0% APR options on other credit cards if I miss a payment?

With CareCredit deferred interest promotional financing, one missed payment does not cancel your promotional offer. However, other standard credit card 0% APR offers may end immediately if a payment is missed depending on the card’s terms.

• Standard 0% APR options: A late monthly payment may end the promotional rate, revert the account to the regular APR and/or trigger a penalty APR depending on the cardholder agreement.
• CareCredit: If you miss one monthly payment on a purchase with deferred interest promotional financing, the promotion remains in place. You may still be charged a late fee, but you can continue to make at least the minimum payment by the due date with the goal to pay off the promo balance by the end of the period you agreed to.

What is the best way to successfully manage a CareCredit deferred interest promotion?

The most successful approach to manage a CareCredit deferred interest promotion is to create a simple, customized monthly payoff plan. Instead of paying only the required monthly payments shown on your billing statement, take your total balance for the promotional purchase and divide it by the number of months in the promotion.

For example, if you have a $1,200 vet or dental bill on a 12-month deferred interest promotion, set up auto-pay for $100 a month. Consistent equal payments each month like this example helps ensure your balance hits zero right on time.

That’s one reason CareCredit can be a helpful option for financing healthcare procedures and treatment with deferred interest options. It’s a credit card you can keep in your wallet and use again for a wide range of health and wellness wants and needs, including pet care.

What do I do if I suspect I have become a victim of fraud or identity theft?

Take action as soon as you suspect an issue. The faster you respond, the faster the issue may be able to be resolved.

Contact Synchrony, issuer of the CareCredit credit card at 1-866-834-3205 to alert us of your concern. A member of our team will assist you in gathering the necessary information to open a claim.

You may receive a Fraud Investigation Form within two weeks of notifying Synchrony that you have been victimized. To protect your rights, it is very important that you return the Fraud Investigation Form to Synchrony via email or fax. Instructions will be included with the form. Keep in mind the following can help expedite the handling of your claim:

• Identify which transactions were made by you and which were not, including the merchant name, transaction date and amount.
• The name of the person, if known, who made unauthorized purchases on the account.
• Upon receipt of the form, our investigations team will review the documents.
• You can expect to receive a letter indicating the outcome of the investigation once a decision has been reached.
• We take great care to conduct a thorough investigation, which includes reviewing your information and gathering all necessary documentation.
• Resolution of claims typically takes 60 days.

What happens after I have reported fraud on my Synchrony account?

If you have reported fraudulent charges on your account, a claim will be opened and your account will be assigned an investigator. Additionally, the following is important to remember:

• A temporary credit will be applied to your account, pending the outcome of the Investigation.
• You are still responsible for payment on any non-fraudulent transactions made by you or an authorized user on the account.
• Depending on the type of claim you file, a Fraud Investigation form may be required. If so, you will receive a Fraud Investigation Form within 2 weeks of notifying Synchrony of fraud charges on your account.
• It is important that you return the Fraud Investigation Form to Synchrony via mail or fax. Failure to return the form may affect your claim.
• Upon receipt of the form, an investigator will review the documents.
• You will receive a letter indicating the outcome of the investigation, once a decision is reached.
• Due to the time it takes to gather all the documents relevant to your claim, it may take up to 90 days to complete the fraud investigation.

*Subject to credit approval.

**Learn more on carecredit.com/mastercard

***Promotional financing options are not available at all retail locations that accept CareCredit and standard account terms will apply to such purchases. In-store/in-club only. Walgreens: For details see carecredit.com/walgreens; Walmart: Select merchandise only. For details see carecredit.com/walmart; Sam's Club: For details see carecredit.com/samsclub. Select merchandise only.

†No interest will be charged on the promo balance if you pay it off, in full, within the promo period. If you do not, interest will be charged on the promo balance from the purchase date. The required minimum monthly payments may or may not pay off the promo balance before the end of the promo period, depending on purchase amount, promo length and payment allocation. Regular account terms apply to non-promo purchases and, after promo period ends, to the promo balance. For New Accounts as of 5/30/2024: Purchase APR 32.99%. Penalty APR 39.99%. Min Interest Charge $2. CareCredit Rewards Mastercard: Cash APR 32.99% and 4% Fee ($10 min). Bal Trans APR 32.99% and 5% Fee ($5 min). Foreign Trans Fee 3%. Existing cardholders: See your credit card agreement terms. Subject to credit approval.

††Interest will be charged on promo purchases from the purchase date. Fixed monthly payments are required until paid in full and will be calculated as follows: on 24-month promotions – 4.9876% of initial promo purchase amount; on 36-month promotions – 3.6605% of initial promo purchase amount; on 48-month promotions – 3.0377% of initial promo purchase amount or on 60-month promotion - 2.6997% of initial promo purchase amount. The fixed monthly payment will be rounded up to the next highest whole dollar and may be higher than the minimum payment that would be required if the purchase was a non-promo purchase. During the last month(s) of the promo period the required monthly payment may be reduced due to the prior months’ rounding. Subject to credit approval.

†††You may be required to provide your annual net income if we do not have your recent information on file. Your income will be used as a factor to determine eligibility for a credit line increase.

CareCredit Rewards Mastercard is issued by Synchrony Bank pursuant to a license by Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.