HFD Financing Alternatives and FAQ

If your provider doesn't offer HFD, or you need a larger amount, the main alternatives are CareCredit, Cherry, Sunbit, LendingClub (now Happen Bank), Alphaeon Credit and a personal loan. Each suits a different credit profile and type of treatment.

Key facts

HFD is only available through participating providers.
Common alternatives are CareCredit, Cherry, Sunbit, Alphaeon Credit and personal loans.
Cherry lists financing up to $65,000 over 1 to 60 months.
Sunbit lists loans of $50 to $20,000 over 3 to 72 months.
A personal loan can be used at any provider.

HFD financing alternatives

The best alternative to HFD depends on your credit and whether your provider offers HFD.

Option	Type	Best for
CareCredit	Healthcare credit card	Good credit and repeat costs
Cherry	Point-of-sale installment loan	Larger treatment costs
Sunbit	Point-of-sale installment plan	Quick checkout at dental and vision offices
LendingClub (now Happen Bank)	Point-of-sale installment loan	Strong credit and very large treatments
Alphaeon Credit	Healthcare credit card	Cosmetic and elective procedures
Personal loan	Unsecured installment loan	Any provider, any treatment

When a personal loan makes sense

A personal loan pays you directly, so you can use it at any provider. It's a good fit when your clinic doesn't offer patient financing, or when you want to combine several bills into one payment. Rates depend on your credit, so compare a few offers before choosing.

How to choose

Compare options on total cost, credit impact and where you can use them.

Start with what your provider accepts.
Compare the total cost, not just the monthly payment.
Prefer options that prequalify with a soft check.
Read the promo terms carefully if interest is deferred.

Terms for each option change often. Confirm details with the lender before you accept an offer.

In-house payment plans

Some offices let you pay in installments directly. These can be simple and interest-free, but they're often short, and many practices only offer them to patients they already know. HFD-style third-party financing gives longer terms and pays the office up front.

Buy now, pay later apps

General shopping apps split purchases into a few payments. They're convenient for small bills but usually aren't built for large healthcare costs. HFD says it sides with patients in care disputes, which many shopping apps don't do.

Credit cards

A regular card works anywhere but often carries a high APR. Use one only if you can pay the balance quickly or have a true 0% intro offer.

Side-by-side summary

Here is how HFD compares with the most common ways to pay for treatment.

Option	Credit check	Typical length	Works at any provider
HFD	Soft only	Up to 84 months	No
Cherry	Check current terms	1 to 60 months	No
CareCredit	Can include a hard inquiry	Varies by promo	Enrolled providers
Personal loan	Soft to prequalify, hard to accept at many lenders	Often 12 to 84 months	Yes
In-house plan	Varies	Usually short	Only that office

Ways to lower treatment costs

You can often reduce what you need to finance before you apply.

Ask about cash or prepay discounts.
Check dental schools for lower-cost care.
Look into dental savings plans if you don't have insurance.
Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible care.
Ask whether treatment can be phased over time.

Common questions

What is the best alternative to HFD financing?

It depends on your credit. CareCredit suits good credit, Cherry suits larger amounts, and a personal loan works at any provider.

Is there anything like HFD for bad credit?

HFD is one of the most lenient options. A personal loan from a lender that accepts fair credit is another route.

What does HFD stand for?

HFD stands for Healthcare Finance Direct.

Where is HFD located?

HFD is headquartered in Southlake, Texas.

Who issues HFD's bank loans?

HFD's bank loan program is issued by Hatch Bank, a California-chartered industrial bank.

How long does HFD take to approve?

Most applications take a few minutes, and offers appear right after you apply.