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Harley-Davidson Credit Application
FAQs
FAQs
Choose a category below to view frequently asked questions on that topic.
Technical Application Assistance
Q: What happens if I leave my computer during the middle of my application? Does it time out?
A:
Your session will expire after 20 minutes of inactivity. Your information will not be saved and your browser will be redirected to the application start page.
Q: During application processing, I had to shut down my computer. What happens to my decision?
A:
Once you submit your application for processing, you will receive an email confirming that we received your submission. If your application submission was successful, you will receive a credit decision email and your dealer will be in touch with you to discuss options.
Q: I closed my browser or shut down my computer while I was applying but before I submitted my application. What happens to my decision?
A:
You will need to start the application process from the beginning. For security purposes, we do not store your data until your application is submitted.
Q: Is it safe and secure to apply online?
A:
To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include sending your information over an encrypted connection and storing any data in a secure database.
Q: I did not receive confirmation of my application submission. What do I do?
A:
If you did not receive a confirmation email the application may not have gone through, or your email address may have been inputted incorrectly on the application. You can try submitting again, or you can reach out to the dealer to confirm submission.
Q: I lost or deleted my confirmation email. What should I do?
A:
Your dealer will be in touch with you to discuss your credit decision. If you do not hear from your dealer within 3 business days, we recommend calling the dealer directly to discuss your options.
Q: I received an email about an online application with HDFS, but I did not apply. What’s going on?
A:
Please contact Rider Services at 800-700-2219 for more information.
Credit Application Questions
Q: I want to make changes to my submitted application. Can I do that?
A:
Changes cannot be made online to your application once it has been submitted, and you can only submit one application per dealer per 30 days, unless you reapply with a joint applicant. See your selected Harley-Davidson dealer to help you make modifications to your application.
Q: I want to change the dealership on my application. Can I do that?
A:
Changes cannot be made online to your application once it has been submitted. However, you may submit an application with a different Harley-Davidson® dealer or a joint applicant. One online application per dealer, per 30 days is allowable (unless you reapply with a joint applicant).
Q: What information is required to apply online?
A:
You will be asked to provide basic information such as your address, contact information, date of birth, Social Security number, income, and employer.
Q: I live outside of the United States. Can I apply for credit with HDFS?
A:
You will have to apply, purchase, and garage your bike within the U.S.; in addition you must provide evidence of a permanent U.S. residence and resident status in order to qualify.
Q: What do you do with my contact information? Is it shared with anyone besides HDFS?
A:
Please see our Privacy Notice for information.
Q: Why do you need my email address?
A:
We will notify you when your credit decision is ready via email.
Q: Why do you need my phone number?
A:
Your dealer may contact you about your application by phone.
Q: Will I receive any phone calls, email or postal mail not related to my credit application now that you have my contact information?
A:
You may receive marketing information from HDFS and our affiliates. Please see our Privacy Notice for information.
Q: What is a joint application?
A:
A joint application is one where two individuals apply for credit together and would have “joint” responsibility for the subsequent loan.
Q: With a joint application, are both applicants on the loan title?
A:
Only the primary applicant is required to be on the title, however both applicants can choose to be included.
Q: Do I need to know what motorcycle I want to buy before I apply for credit?
A:
No, you may skip this step to obtain an initial credit decision and finalize your selections at the dealership. However, please note that the amount of money you wish to borrow plays an important role in your credit decision. If you skip the step you will be assigned the system default model for the purposes of rendering a credit decision. It is always advisable to select a model in the same general price range as the amount you are hoping to borrow for the most accurate automated credit decision.
Q: Do I need to select a dealership?
A:
Yes. The Online Application will offer a default dealership based on your home ZIP code. You may use that dealership, or choose another one that you are comfortable with from the Dealer Locator.
Q: I can’t find my preferred dealer in the list. What do I do?
A:
Not every dealership participates in the Online Application. You may use the default dealer, choose another one from the locator, or visit your preferred dealer to start the application process.
Q: I am a current HDFS customer. Do I need to reapply?
A:
Yes, you will need to submit a new credit application either using the Online Application or by visiting your preferred dealership.
Q: I already applied at a dealership. Can I apply again online?
A:
Yes, you may submit an online application once every 30 days, per dealer, outside of any previous dealership applications.
Q: I want to apply as a military customer. How do I do that?
A:
Submit a standard application with your employer listed and then discuss the options available for active military personnel with your dealership.
Q: I want to apply for credit with a joint applicant. Can I do that?
A:
Yes, you may apply for joint credit using the Online Application. If approved, both applicants will be required to sign the loan documents.
Q: Can I add a joint applicant to an existing online application?
A:
No, however you may submit a new joint application for credit using the Online Application.
Q: My credit is bad. Should I still submit an application?
A:
There are many factors that go into the decision along with your current credit situation. We will not know if you would qualify for financing until your application has been reviewed.
Q: I don’t feel comfortable entering my personal information online. Can I apply over the phone?
A:
HDFS does not accept phone applications. However, you may contact your preferred dealership and they may be able to assist you.
Q: I want to apply at the dealership. Can I do that?
A:
Yes, you may visit your preferred dealership to start the application process.
Q: How do I find out if my credit decision has been made?
A:
In most cases the Online Application will provide a real-time response on your device. In addition, you will receive an email when your decision is ready for viewing. Follow the instructions in the email.
Q: I want to include part-time or bonus income. Where do I put that?
A:
Add all income sources together when entering your annual gross income into the Online Application.
Q: Should I include my total annual household income, or only individual income?
A:
You should only use your individual gross income for application purposes. If you would like to include your spouse’s gross income then your spouse will need to apply as a joint applicant.
Q: Do I need to deduct or include alimony, child support and/or separate maintenance as part of my annual income?
A:
Alimony, child support and/or separate maintenance need not be revealed if you do not wish to have it considered as a basis for repaying this obligation.
Q: I don’t have any income or I am unemployed. What do I do?
A:
Income is a required field on the application. If you are in this situation you can apply with a joint applicant to meet the minimum requirements.
Q: What documentation do I need to provide for proof of income?
A:
Income must reflect the applicant(s) name listed on the application.
The following documents are considered acceptable:
• Pay stub - Must show company name, applicant’s name and/or complete/partial Social Security number, dated within 30 days from the date submitted.
• Social Security Benefits – Most recent annual award letter from the Social Security Administration OR a bank statement* that is no more than 90 days old showing direct deposits from the US Treasury.
• VA Benefits – Most recent annual award letter from the VA Benefits Administration OR a bank statement* that is no more than 90 days old showing direct deposits from the US Treasury.
• Retirement / Pension – Most recent pension statement OR a bank statement* no more than 30 days old showing direct deposits from the provider.
• Leave and Earnings Statement (L.E.S.) - Must be from the last 30 days (government applicants only).
• Alimony or child support income – Court documentation stating the applicant is receiving the payments.
• Rental Income – Most recent year 1040 Tax Return with Schedule E.
• Self-employed (includes all 1099 employees) - Provide 1040 tax forms AND all accompanying schedules (current tax season, prior year) with the applicant’s name on it.
* For bank statements where there is a joint account holder, we must be able to identify the recipient of the direct deposit on that line item in order to consider unless the joint account holder is also the joint applicant.
Application Decision Questions
Q: Once I’ve applied, how do I find my decision?
A:
In most cases, the Online Application will provide a real-time response on your device. In addition, your will receive an email when your decision is ready for viewing. Follow the instructions in the email.
Q: I want to apply with a co-signer. Do you allow joint applications?
A:
HDFS will consider applications for joint credit. Both parties should fill out the application and be responsible jointly for any subsequent contract.
Q: Can I just work with HDFS on my loan application and not go to the dealer?
A:
In order to finalize your loan transaction and purchase your bike, you must visit your dealership.
Q: I already applied at a dealership. Is that decision available online?
A:
No, only decisions obtained through the Online Application can be viewed online. Please contact your dealer to get your decision.
Q: I was approved with a default bike. However, the bike I want to purchase is different. What do I do now?
A:
Contact the dealership to which your application was submitted and speak with a Sales/Finance professional to update your application.
Q: I want to find out information about my credit history. How can I do that?
A:
Your online decision will contain a link to retrieve your Credit Score Disclosure Notice, which contains your FICO score and information about the credit reporting agency used to obtain your credit report. Contact the credit reporting agency used in order to obtain a copy of your report.
Q: What factors are used to determine my creditworthiness?
A:
Many factors are used to determine creditworthiness. It is always advisable to follow-up with the dealership if you don’t receive an approval through the online system. Your credit situation is unique and a dealer can help determine what options you may have in order to help get you on the road. You may obtain a copy of your credit report by contacting the credit reporting agency listed on your Credit Score Disclosure Notice, which is provided via link on your online credit decision.
Q: Will the dealer require a separate application if I applied online?
A:
The dealership may ask you to sign a printed or electronic copy of the application that you submitted online. A signed credit application is required to finalize your loan transaction.
Q: Can you tell me my credit score (FICO)?
A:
HDFS cannot disclose your FICO score over the phone. However, your online decision contains a link to retrieve your Credit Score Disclosure Notice that will provide this information.
Q: I don’t recall selecting a dealer. What dealership did my application get submitted to and how was it chosen?
A:
If a preferred dealership is not selected, the Online Application will choose a default Harley-Davidson dealership based on the ZIP code you have provided. Your selected dealership information is available on your credit decision.
Q: I was not able to get an approval online. Can I resubmit my application with different information (e.g. more income, different bike) to see if I can get an approval?
A:
Changes cannot be made to your online application once it has been submitted, and you will not be able to submit another application for 30 days, unless you reapply with a joint applicant. See your selected Harley-Davidson® dealer to help you make modifications to your application.
Q: Do I have to go to the Harley-Davidson® dealer I shared my application/have an approval with?
A:
No, you may visit any Harley-Davidson® dealer location. However, if you chose to go to a different Harley-Davidson® dealer you will need to submit a new application at that dealer.
Q: Do I need to have the pre-approval certificate/email in order to go to my dealer?
A:
No, you may notify your dealer that you received an online approval and they will be able to retrieve the decision from their system. Remember that your online application will only be shared with your preferred dealership.
Q: Does my online application constitute any permanent agreement on my part to finance with HDFS?
A:
Your application for credit does not obligate you in any way. Your application simply provides you with information that may assist you when discussing your purchase with your preferred dealership.
Q: How much down payment will I need?
A:
You can discuss down payment options with your preferred dealership. Various programs may be available depending on your credit decision but a down payment may be required.
Q: How will a down payment affect my credit decision?
A:
You can discuss down payment options with your preferred dealership. The amount of your down payment may impact the finance options available to you.
Q: How will a dealer be notified of my decision?
A:
Your selected dealership will be notified of your online decision electronically in real-time. They will be able to discuss options with you during their normal business hours.
Q: How long is my decision is valid?
A:
Online decisions are valid for 30 days. Please visit your preferred dealership before that time in order to finalize your purchase and loan.
Q: What information should I bring to the dealership?
A:
Bring your approval certificate; a valid, unexpired photo ID for all applicants (driver’s license, military ID, passport); proof of your insurance; and any additional documents listed in your credit decision.
Q: I submitted my application but never received an email or I deleted it. Now what do I do?
A:
If you can’t locate your Application ID, you can retrieve it by visiting the Online Application and clicking the “Forgot your Application ID” link and entering the email address that you used on your application. We will send you an email with your Application ID and ask you to enter your date of birth and the last four digits of your Social Security number to authenticate your identity.
Q: I want to know the interest rate on my credit approval. Can you tell me that now?
A:
Please contact the dealership to get the interest rate options that are available to you.
Q: Is my approval transferable to another person?
A:
No, your credit decision is specific to you and may not be used to obtain a loan to purchase a bike for any other individual.
Q: Why do I need to provide proof of income?
A:
At times, proof of your income may be required in order to confirm your credit decision. Your dealership will be able to provide more specific guidance. Typically, a recent paystub from your employer is required, or your most recent tax returns if self-employed.
Loan Information
Q: What is required to finance with HDFS?
A:
You will need a valid, unexpired photo ID for all applicants (driver’s license, military ID, passport); proof of insurance; and any additional documents listed in your credit decision.
Q: How can I find out the interest rate I will be charged?
A:
Your preferred dealership will be able to discuss all of your finance options including down payment, interest rate, term, etc.
Q: I see that there is currently a finance promotion through Harley-Davidson Financial Services, how do I know if I qualify for this?
A:
If you are approved for credit you may qualify for a special finance promotion at the time of purchase. Your preferred dealership will be able to discuss all of your finance options including down payment, interest rate, term, etc.
Q: Can I add taxes, accessories, or a warranty to my approval?
A:
Please discuss options related to financing additional items with your preferred dealership. They will work hard to structure your loan to fit your needs.
Q: What is the maximum term I can finance the bike for?
A:
Please discuss loan terms with your preferred dealership. Terms vary based on type of bike and other factors. Your dealership will be able to structure your loan to best fit your needs.
Q: Where can I find the hours for the dealership I selected?
A:
You can access information about your dealership using the dealer locator on www.harley-davidson.com. The locator will provide you with hours of operation and also a link to that specific dealer’s website, if available.
Q: Who is the lender if I finance with HDFS?
A:
Your loan would be provided by Eaglemark Savings Bank, a subsidiary of Harley-Davidson Financial Services.
Q: Do I need to be at the dealer when the loan is written, or can we finish over the phone?
A:
The Online Application is just one of the steps required to complete your purchase. If you have additional questions please contact your dealer. However, if you are ready to move forward with your purchase you will need to visit your dealership to complete the paperwork in person.
Q: Can my spouse (or other person) bring my information to the dealer and finish the loan for me?
A:
We require signatures from the applying party – or both parties in the case of a joint application – to complete the purchase process. You will be required to complete the process in person at the dealership.
Q: How can I determine my monthly payment?
A:
Monthly payments will be based on the amount financed, term of your loan, down payment and your interest rate. Please visit your dealer for more information.
Q: I know how much I can afford to pay per month. How can I determine how much bike I can buy?
A:
Monthly payments will be based on the amount financed, term of your loan, down payment and your interest rate. Please visit your dealer for more information.
Motorcycle Questions
Q: What is the H-D Certified program?
A:
It stands to reason that the better a product is made the longer it will last, which makes getting a high-quality, low mileage Harley-Davidson motorcycle at a great price a very savvy move. Not every pre-owned motorcycle receives the H-D Certified program distinction. In order to meet our rigorous certification standards, specially trained technicians at each Harley-Davidson dealership put every eligible unit through an exhaustive series of checks, helping to ensure reliability, quality and customer confidence. Eligible units must be no older than 5 model years, have less than 25,000 miles on the odometer and pass a comprehensive 110-point inspection. All H-D Certified motorcycles come with a 12-month/unlimited mileage powertrain warranty and 12-month H.O.G membership with Roadside Assistance. Only the best pre-owned Harley-Davidson units qualify to become H-D Certified motorcycles, and they're all exclusively at your Harley-Davidson dealer.
Q: I am not sure what bike I want to buy. Can I still apply online?
A:
Yes, you may use the default bike in the Online Application to receive an initial credit decision and later choose a different bike at the dealership to finalize the loan.
Q: I want to change the motorcycle I selected on my online application. Is that ok?
A:
Changes cannot be made to your online application once it has been submitted, and you will not be able to submit another online application for 30 days at the same dealership, unless you reapply with a joint applicant. See your selected Harley-Davidson® dealer to help you make modifications to your existing application, including bike selection.
Q: I want to apply for a Rider-to-Rider loan. How can I do that?
A:
You may use the Online Application to obtain an approval and then discuss your request to use the Rider-to-Rider program with your preferred dealership.
Q: I want to apply for multiple motorcycles. Can I do that?
A:
You will not be able to submit a second online application for 30 days at the same dealership, unless you apply with a joint applicant. However, please discuss your request for multiple motorcycles with your preferred dealership. They may be able to provide those options.
Q: Will you ask for trade-in information on the application?
A:
No. Please discuss your trade-in options with your preferred dealership.
Q: How do I find the value of my trade-in motorcycle?
A:
Please discuss your trade-in options with your preferred dealership.
Q: My motorcycle is not ready and my decision is about to expire. What do I do?
A:
Please discuss your approval status with your dealership. They will be able to provide guidance on extending your approval.
Q: Can I negotiate the price of the bike online?
A:
You will need to contact your Sales/Finance representative at the dealership where your application was submitted to in order to negotiate your purchase.
Q: What if I’m trying to buy an older bike that is not on drop-down menu?
A:
HDFS will consider all Harley-Davidson® year, make and models. Please see your dealership for more details on purchasing a bike not listed.
Q: Do I need a valid motorcycle endorsement/license before I purchase?
A:
In order to obtain financing through HDFS, you will be required to carry a motorcycle insurance policy. Most insurance companies will require a motorcycle endorsement/license before issuing a policy. Please discuss with your preferred dealer.
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