Home › Answers › Can I defer my car loan payments with Navy Federal Credit Union?
Navy Federal, like most lenders, typically offers loan deferment or forbearance options for borrowers facing temporary financial hardship. Deferment usually means postponing one or more monthly payments, though the missed payments often get added to the end of your loan or rolled into future payments—you're not erasing the debt, just moving it. Eligibility and terms vary by your membership status, loan age, payment history, and the reason for hardship (job loss, medical emergency, natural disaster). You'd contact Navy Federal directly to ask about their specific hardship programs and what documentation they require. The key thing to understand is that deferment isn't forgiveness. Your interest typically keeps accruing, and your loan term may extend. Some lenders offer partial payment plans instead, where you pay a reduced amount for a few months. Navy Federal members should call their member services line or log into their account to explore what's available—they're generally more flexible with members than banks are with non-members. If you're struggling with a current car loan payment and exploring options, Elite Edge can help you look at refinancing to a lower rate or longer term, which actually lowers your monthly payment without deferring it. We shop multiple lenders and can often find better terms than your current loan, even with credit challenges. Reach out at (954) 907-2386 or use the 60-second Pre-Qualify at eliteedgeautobroker.com/PreQualify to see what's possible.
Will deferment hurt my credit score?
Yes—most deferment arrangements are reported to credit bureaus and will temporarily lower your score, though the damage is typically less severe than a missed payment or default.
How long can I defer payments?
Navy Federal typically allows 30 to 90 days of deferment, but this varies; you must ask them directly about their current hardship program terms.
Is refinancing better than deferment?
Refinancing is often better if you qualify, because it lowers your actual monthly payment without the credit hit or extended loan term that deferment creates.
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