Ratings Methodology for Buy Now, Pay Later Plans
When evaluating BNPL companies, NerdWallet considers affordability and flexibility, as well as customer experience and protections.
6 lenders reviewed 
22 subcategories assessed 
25 data points analyzed Data collection and review process
We collect data on six of the most widely available buy now, pay later companies. These companies offer BNPL payment plans through retailers across the U.S. as well as in their apps.
How we rate buy now, pay later plans
We assess five categories and 22 subcategories. We weight four of the categories in this way:
The fifth category is unweighted and discretionary. A plan’s rating may be lowered if it has faced governmental regulatory action in the past five years or been accused of predatory practices by a reputable source. A lender that offers a unique, consumer-friendly feature (outside of the scored categories above) that few others offer may earn a higher score.
Data accuracy
Buy now, pay later reviews are thoroughly reassessed annually. Writers and editors also make updates to data, such as new features and star ratings, throughout the year as necessary. We establish and maintain contact with providers’ primary point people to ensure current information.
The review team
The review team is made up of writers and editors who cover buy now, pay later, plus other borrowing products, including personal loans and paycheck advance apps. Each team member adheres to NerdWallet’s strict guidelines for editorial integrity.
Our writers’ bylines have appeared in The New York Times, The Associated Press, USA Today, MSN, MarketWatch, Yahoo! Finance and other national and regional media outlets in addition to NerdWallet. External media frequently tap our buy now, pay later experts for input on industry trends and developments that impact consumers.
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Writers
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