Afterpay is the original buy now pay later (BNPL) company that pretty much invented the "pay in four" model Australians now take for granted. Founded in Sydney in 2014, it was acquired by US fintech Block (the company behind Square and Cash App) in 2021. Today it's one of the biggest names in the space both locally and internationally.
In simple terms, Afterpay lets you buy something from a participating retailer and split the cost into four equal, interest-free payments over six weeks. You get the goods now, they get paid by Afterpay upfront (minus their fee), and you repay Afterpay on the schedule.
What They Actually Offer
The core product is the four-payment instalment plan at checkout. It's available on thousands of Australian retailers - fashion, electronics, homewares, beauty, even some services. There's also an Afterpay Card in some markets and integration with apps like Cash App.
No long-term interest. The appeal is the short-term spread and the fact you don't need a traditional credit card.
Countries and Scale
Afterpay operates in Australia (where it started), the United States, United Kingdom (as Clearpay in some places), Canada, New Zealand and a number of other markets. Merchant integrations are wide in supported countries. In Australia it's still one of the most recognised and widely accepted BNPL options, competing with Zip, Humm and others.
User numbers are in the millions in Australia alone historically, with global BNPL adoption continuing to grow. Exact current active user figures fluctuate with marketing campaigns and economic conditions.
Fees and How the Money Works
For customers: interest-free if you pay on time. Late fees apply for missed payments (the exact amounts are in the terms and can add up).
For merchants: Afterpay charges a fee on each transaction (typically in the 4-6%+ range depending on volume and market - always confirm current rates directly). This is how they make money while offering "interest free" to shoppers. The merchant pays that cost to get the sale and the instant payout from Afterpay.
The Sign Up Offers and Coupons
New users are often eligible for welcome discounts via referral or promo codes. The current offer through Coupon CEO includes code ANTHO-FMTL7 for $30 off your first purchase with a minimum spend of $50. This is aimed at eligible new customers and is subject to the usual terms - the discount must apply at checkout and you need to complete the purchase to receive the benefit.
Claim the Afterpay offer - Check eligibility and confirm the $30 comes off before paying.
Disclaimer
Information is general in nature and current as of 2026 - always check Afterpay's official website for the latest fees, features, regional availability, and terms. Coupon CEO may earn a commission on qualifying referrals at no extra cost to you. Buy now pay later is a form of credit. Late fees apply for missed payments. Not financial advice. Offers apply to eligible new customers only and are subject to change.
FAQ
How does Afterpay actually work?
At a participating retailer you select Afterpay at checkout, complete a quick sign-up or login, and the purchase is split into four equal payments due over the next six weeks. You receive the item immediately.
What is the Afterpay coupon code ANTHO-FMTL7?
It's a promo for $30 off eligible first purchases with a $50 minimum spend. Apply it in the promo field at checkout. The discount must show before you complete payment.
Are there late fees with Afterpay?
Yes. If you miss a scheduled payment, late fees are charged. These are detailed in the terms and conditions at the time of your purchase.
Can I use Afterpay on any purchase?
Only at merchants that have integrated Afterpay. Not every store or website accepts it. Look for the logo or option at checkout.
Is Afterpay available outside Australia?
Yes. It operates in multiple countries including the US, UK, Canada and New Zealand (sometimes under the Clearpay name in parts of Europe). Features and offers can differ by region.
Does Afterpay build credit or affect my credit score?
It is not a traditional credit product in the same way. However, missed payments and defaults can be reported to credit agencies. Check the current policy on their site.
What do merchants pay to offer Afterpay?
Merchants pay Afterpay a percentage fee per transaction (often around 4-6% or more depending on factors). This funds the service while keeping it interest-free for shoppers who pay on time.
Can I pay off my Afterpay balance early?
Yes, in most cases you can make additional payments or clear the remaining balance ahead of schedule through the app or account.
Want the current $30 off? Use code ANTHO-FMTL7 on your first eligible purchase of $50 or more. Claim the Afterpay offer. Confirm the discount at checkout and read all terms before buying.
