This holiday season, financing your next vehicle with Texas Tech Credit Union could come with a very big bow on top. From November 1 through December 31, every eligible new auto loan, used auto loan, or qualifying refinance from another lender is automatically entered for a chance to win up to $50,000 in auto loan forgiveness.*
Want to make the car-buying process easier? Get pre-approved before visiting the dealership.
Car loan pre-approval is a conditional offer from a lender that tells you how much you can borrow and at what rate before you shop. It's based on your credit, income and the loan amount. With pre-approval in hand, you know your budget, can compare the dealer's financing and can negotiate like a cash buyer.
How A Car for Christmas Works
Getting entered is simple:
- Finance a vehicle with us. New auto loans, used auto loans and auto refinances from another financial institution all count.
- Apply by December 31, 2026. Your loan needs to fund by January 7, 2027, to qualify.
- You're automatically entered. One lucky member wins up to $50,000 of their auto loan forgiven.
A few things don't qualify: loans already financed at Texas Tech Credit Union, boats, motorcycles and RVs and loans under $15,000. Get all the details on the A Car for Christmas promotion page
Why Get Pre-Approved Before You Shop?
Walking onto a dealership lot without financing can make it harder to focus on the total cost of the vehicle. Pre-approval puts you in control.
- Know your real budget. Avoid spending time looking at vehicles outside your price range. Pre-approval helps you shop confidently within a realistic budget.
- Negotiate the price, not the payment. When your financing is already arranged, it's easier to negotiate the vehicle's purchase price instead of getting distracted by monthly payment discussions.
- Move faster. With Texas Tech Credit Union, you can apply for an auto loan online in minutes and usually get a same-day decision.
What Do You Need to Get Pre-Approved?
Gather these before you apply and the process goes even faster:
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Proof of income, like recent pay stubs or a W-2
- Your current address and employment details
- Trade-in details, if you have one
- For a refinance: your current lender, payoff amount and vehicle identification number (VIN)
Want a step-by-step plan? Grab our free car financing guide.
Already Have a Car Loan? Refinancing Qualifies Too
If your current vehicle is financed through another lender, refinancing with Texas Tech Credit Union may qualify you for the promotion while potentially helping you secure more favorable loan terms.
It's worth reviewing your current loan if you want to explore ways to lower costs or simplify your financing. For more information, read how refinancing your auto loan can save you thousands.
While you're at it, ask about protection options like GAP insurance, Omni-Shield protection and extended warranties. Our guide to vehicle protection options breaks down what each one covers.
Key Takeaways
- Car loan pre-approval shows your budget and rate before you shop.
- Eligible new, used and refinanced auto loans from November 1 to December 31 are entered to win up to $50,000 in loan forgiveness.*
- Check current auto loan rates and apply online.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Car Loan Pre-Approval Last?
Pre-approvals don't last forever, and the window varies by lender. A pre-approval from Texas Tech Credit Union lasts 30 days.
Can I Get Pre-Approved With Less-Than-Perfect Credit?
Yes, it's worth applying. We work with members at all credit levels. Your rate and loan amount depend on your credit profile, income and the vehicle you choose.
Does a Used Car Loan Qualify for A Car for Christmas?
Yes. New auto loans, used auto loans and auto refinances from another lender all qualify, as long as the loan is $15,000 or more and meets the other promotion terms.
Get Pre-Approved and Get in the Holiday Spirit
Know your budget, shop with confidence and take your shot at a paid-off ride. Applying takes just a few minutes.
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*The amount of the forgiven loan will be treated as taxable income. Qualifying loans must be approved in December 2026. Loans currently financed at Texas Tech Credit Union do not qualify for this offer. Other restrictions apply. Offer good from November 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. Excludes boats, motorcycles, RVs and loans under $15,000. All loans subject to credit approval.