Let’s start with the question on your mind: “Can I pay my AmeriHome mortgage with a credit card, tell?” It seems like a simple yes-or-no question, but it actually opens up a bunch of other things to consider—like fees, financial strategy, and alternative options.
The short and sweet answer? No, AmeriHome doesn’t accept credit card payments directly. But don’t click away just yet! There’s a lot more to the story, including why this rule exists, what options are available, and what workarounds might (or might not) be worth trying.
Meet AmeriHome: Who Are They?
AmeriHome might not be the flashiest name in the mortgage world, but they’re huge behind the scenes. You may have started your mortgage with a big name lender like Wells Fargo, Rocket Mortgage, or a local bank—and later got a notice saying your loan was transferred to AmeriHome. That’s totally normal!
Once AmeriHome becomes your loan servicer, they’re the team you deal with every month. They handle your payments, escrow (property taxes and insurance), statements, and any questions or changes you need. Think of them as the customer service side of your mortgage.
Why Can’t You Pay a Mortgage with a Credit Card?
It feels like in 2025, you should be able to pay anything with a credit card, right? But here’s the scoop on why mortgage companies like AmeriHome say no:
1. High Transaction Fees
Every time a business accepts a credit card, they pay the credit card company a fee—usually between 2% to 3% of the amount. On a $2,000 mortgage, that’s $40–$60 in fees. Most mortgage companies don’t want to eat that cost, and they’re not allowed to pass it on to you in many cases.
2. Regulations & Risk
Mortgage payments are governed by lots of rules and federal regulations. Credit card payments come with more uncertainty—like potential chargebacks or customers taking on debt they can’t afford. That’s not a road mortgage lenders want to go down.
Accepted Payment Methods at AmeriHome
Just because credit cards are off the table doesn’t mean your options are limited. AmeriHome offers a few different ways to make sure your mortgage is paid smoothly:
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ACH (Bank Transfer): This is the most popular method. You connect your checking account, and either pay manually each month or set up auto-pay so you never miss a due date.
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Online Bill Pay: Many banks allow you to schedule mortgage payments directly through their online portal.
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Checks/Money Orders: Still valid, especially for folks who prefer a paper trail. Just make sure you send it early enough to avoid late fees.
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Phone Payments: You can call AmeriHome’s automated system or speak to an agent (note: sometimes this has a small processing fee).
Any Workarounds to Use a Credit Card?
Okay, so AmeriHome won’t take your credit card directly. But can you indirectly use one?
Yes—but it gets a little tricky.
1. Third-Party Services Like Plastiq
Platforms like Plastiq let you pay bills—including mortgages—with your credit card. They charge your card and send a check or ACH transfer to your lender. But here’s what you need to know:
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There’s a fee—usually 2.85% or more.
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It can take a few days for the payment to reach AmeriHome.
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AmeriHome doesn’t officially recommend or endorse these services, so if a payment goes missing, it’s on you to sort it out.
2. Cash Advance from Your Credit Card
You could, technically, take a cash advance from your credit card and use that cash to pay your mortgage. But this is super risky. Why?
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High interest rates (often 20%+)
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No grace period—interest starts immediately
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Cash advance fees, usually 3–5%
This should really only be considered as a last resort.
The Risks of Using Credit Cards for Mortgage Payments
Let’s break down what might go wrong if you try to work around the rules and use a credit card.
1. Interest Piling Up
Unless you pay off the card immediately, you’re trading low-interest mortgage debt for high-interest credit card debt. That’s a losing game financially—like replacing a low-rate home loan with a 20% loan from your credit card.
2. Hurting Your Credit Score
Mortgage payments are big. Putting them on a credit card can spike your credit utilization ratio—which is one of the biggest factors in your credit score. Even one large balance can knock your score down temporarily.
3. Late Payment Risks
Third-party services sometimes take a few days to deliver the payment. If there’s a delay and your mortgage hits late status, you could face late fees, and worse—a ding on your credit report.
Alternatives for Earning Rewards on Mortgage Payments
If your motivation to use a credit card is centered around rewards or cashback, consider redirecting other large expenses—like utility bills, groceries, or subscriptions—to your credit card instead. That way, you can still rack up rewards while keeping your mortgage payments separate.
Another alternative is to use a rewards debit card or a checking account with cashback features for your mortgage payment, if your bank offers one. While rewards may not be as high as with a credit card, you’ll avoid the fees and risks associated with using third-party workarounds.
Are There Any Legit Benefits?
There are a few very specific cases where using a credit card might make sense:
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Meeting a big sign-up bonus on a new rewards card (like spending $4,000 in 3 months).
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Short-term cash flow issues where you know you can pay it off before interest kicks in.
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Business owners who manage finances creatively and account for all fees and risks.
But these are rare and only work if you have a solid plan to pay off the balance before interest grows.
What If You’re Struggling to Make Your Mortgage Payment?
If you find yourself in a financial crunch, don’t wait until you’re late to seek help. AmeriHome offers hardship assistance options, which may include forbearance, repayment plans, or loan modification. Getting ahead of the problem increases your chances of qualifying for assistance and avoiding negative credit reporting.
Another option is to contact a HUD-approved housing counselor. These professionals can help you explore budgeting strategies, refinancing options, or other relief programs to make your mortgage more manageable without resorting to high-interest debt like credit cards.
The Bottom Line: Should You Use a Credit Card?
In most cases, no. The convenience and potential perks are usually not worth the cost. Between third-party service fees, interest charges, processing delays, and credit risks, using a credit card to pay your mortgage introduces more problems than it solves.
Sticking to AmeriHome’s approved payment methods and budgeting your income accordingly will save you money, stress, and possibly your credit score in the long run. If you must use a credit card to cover living expenses, choose other bills or expenses that allow it directly and safely.
Final Thoughts – pay AmeriHome mortgage with credit card
It’s natural to want convenience, especially with something as important as a mortgage. But sometimes, simpler isn’t better—especially when fees, risks, and potential financial pitfalls are involved. While AmeriHome doesn’t accept credit cards, they do offer secure, reliable ways to pay your mortgage that are better aligned with long-term financial health.
Ultimately, the goal should be to manage your mortgage sustainably. If you’re consistently in a position where you’re considering credit cards for mortgage payments, it’s time to explore more foundational solutions—whether that’s financial counseling, refinancing, or budgeting support.
FAQ
1. Can I pay my AmeriHome mortgage directly with a credit card?
Most mortgage servicers, including AmeriHome, typically do not accept direct credit card payments due to high transaction fees and risk factors.
2. Are there third-party services that allow paying a mortgage with a credit card?
Yes, services like Plastiq can help you pay your mortgage using a credit card by acting as a middleman — but they charge a fee (usually around 2.5-3%).
3. Is it a good idea to pay your mortgage with a credit card?
While possible through third-party services, it’s generally not recommended unless you’re using a 0% APR promo, chasing credit card rewards, or facing a short-term cash crunch.
4. Will paying my mortgage with a credit card affect my credit score?
It might. If the charge pushes your credit utilization ratio too high, it could negatively impact your score — especially if you don’t pay it off quickly.
