Frequently Asked Questions

Scratchpay is a veterinary financing company that provides payment plans for pet care. Here's how it works:

• Apply: Complete a simple 2-minute application online or at your vet's office
• Get Approved: Receive an instant decision, usually within seconds
• Choose Plan: Select from flexible payment plans (6-24 months)
• Get Treatment: Your pet receives immediate care while you make affordable monthly payments

Scratchpay pays your veterinarian directly, so there's no delay in getting your pet the care they need.

Scratchpay approval typically takes seconds to a few minutes. Most applications receive an instant decision.

The process is designed to be fast because we understand that pet emergencies can't wait. If additional verification is needed, it may take up to 24 hours, but this is rare.

Yes! You can apply for Scratchpay online before your vet visit or at your veterinarian's office during your appointment.

Applying online ahead of time can save time during your vet visit, especially in emergency situations. You'll receive a pre-approval that's valid for multiple uses at participating locations.

Scratchpay doesn't have a strict minimum credit score requirement. We use alternative underwriting methods that consider multiple factors:

• Income and employment history
• Banking relationship and history
• Overall financial picture beyond just credit score
• Debt-to-income ratio

Some approvals are possible with credit scores as low as 550, though applicants with higher scores typically receive better terms and higher approval amounts.

While Scratchpay doesn't publish a minimum credit score, most approvals occur with scores above 580. However, we regularly approve applicants with lower scores based on other factors.

Our alternative underwriting approach means that even if you've been declined by other lenders, you may still qualify for Scratchpay financing.

Applying for Scratchpay involves a soft credit check that does NOT impact your credit score. Only if you're approved and accept the terms will a hard credit inquiry be performed.

You can safely apply to see if you qualify without worrying about affecting your credit.

You can make Scratchpay payments through several convenient methods:

• Online: Log into your account at scratchpay.com
• Phone: Call customer service for phone payments
• Auto-Pay: Set up automatic payments from your bank account
• Mobile App: Use the Scratchpay mobile app

You'll receive payment reminders via email and text message to help you stay on track.

Scratchpay offers flexible payment plans with terms ranging from 6 to 24 months:

• 6-month plans: Higher monthly payments, less total interest
• 12-month plans: Balanced monthly payments for most treatments
• 18-month plans: Lower monthly payments for larger expenses
• 24-month plans: Lowest monthly payments for expensive procedures

The specific plans available depend on your approval amount and the treatment cost.

Scratchpay may charge:

• Interest: Based on your creditworthiness and plan length
• Late fees: For missed or late payments
• No prepayment penalties: Pay off early without extra fees
• No application fees: Free to apply

All fees and terms are clearly disclosed before you accept any financing offer.

Scratchpay can be used for virtually any veterinary treatment at participating clinics:

• Routine checkups and wellness exams
• Vaccinations and preventive care
• Dental cleanings and oral surgery
• Emergency care and accidents
• Surgeries (orthopedic, soft tissue, etc.)
• Diagnostic tests and imaging
• Specialist treatments and referrals
• Cancer treatments and chemotherapy
• Prescription medications

Basically, if it's a veterinary expense, Scratchpay can likely help finance it.

Both Scratchpay and CareCredit serve similar purposes, but each has advantages:

Scratchpay Advantages:

• Easier approval process with alternative underwriting
• Often approves applicants declined by CareCredit
• Fast, simple application process
• Flexible payment terms

CareCredit Advantages:

• Larger network of participating providers
• Promotional 0% interest periods for qualified applicants
• Can be used for human healthcare as well

Many applicants apply to both to see which offers better terms for their situation.

Whether Scratchpay is "better" depends on your specific situation:

Scratchpay might be better if:

• You have fair or poor credit
• You've been declined by other lenders
• You need fast approval for emergency care
• You prefer a simple, straightforward application

CareCredit might be better if:

• You have excellent credit and qualify for 0% promotional rates
• Your vet doesn't accept Scratchpay
• You want to use the same card for human healthcare

The best approach is often to apply to both and choose the option with better terms for your specific needs.