What is CareCredit?
CareCredit is a healthcare credit card that can be used for various medical expenses, including veterinary care, dental procedures, vision care, and cosmetic treatments. It's been around since 1987 and is accepted at over 250,000 healthcare providers nationwide.
Unlike Scratchpay which offers installment loans, CareCredit functions as a revolving credit line - similar to a traditional credit card but specifically for healthcare expenses.
CareCredit Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- ✓ 0% promotional financing for 6-24 months
- ✓ Widely accepted at 250,000+ providers
- ✓ Can be used for multiple healthcare needs
- ✓ Reusable credit line
- ✓ No annual fee
✗ Cons
- ✗ High APR (26.99%) if not paid in promo period
- ✗ Deferred interest can be costly
- ✗ Requires good credit (typically 620+)
- ✗ Late payment fees up to $41
CareCredit vs Scratchpay
| Feature | CareCredit | Scratchpay |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Credit Card | Installment Loan |
| 0% APR Option | Yes (6-24 mo) | Yes (up to 6 mo) |
| Standard APR | 26.99% | 4.95% - 35.95% |
| Min. Credit Score | ~620 | ~550 |
| Soft Credit Check | No | Yes |
| Vet Partners | 250,000+ | 17,000+ |
Who Should Use CareCredit?
CareCredit may be a good choice if you:
- Have good credit (620+ score)
- Can pay off the balance within the promotional period
- Want a reusable credit line for ongoing healthcare needs
- Need to use it at providers that don't accept Scratchpay
Our Recommendation
Both CareCredit and Scratchpay are legitimate options for financing veterinary care. We recommend comparing offers from both before making a decision.
If you have lower credit or prefer predictable fixed payments, Scratchpay may be the better choice. If you have good credit and can pay within the 0% period, CareCredit offers more flexibility.
Compare Your Options
Check if you prequalify without affecting your credit score
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