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What is a Line of Credit?

A Line of Credit is a flexible funding facility that gives businesses access to a pre-approved pool of funds that can be drawn, repaid, and drawn again as needed. It’s designed to help businesses manage everyday cash flow fluctuations, fund short-term needs, or seize unexpected opportunities — without applying for new loans each time.

You only pay interest on the funds you draw down, making it a highly adaptable solution compared to fixed-term loans.

How a Line of Credit Works

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A lender approves a credit limit based on your financial strength and/or security offered.

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You can draw down funds as needed, up to the approved limit.

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As you repay amounts drawn, the available balance increases — similar to a credit card for businesses.

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Interest is charged only on the drawn amount, not the entire limit.

Depending on the facility, a Line of Credit can be either

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Secured (e.g., by property or business assets), or

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Unsecured (based on strong trading history and financials).

Feature

Details

Credit Limit

Typically from $50,000 to $5M+ depending on security and financials

Repayment Structure

Flexible — pay down and redraw at any time

Security

May be secured (property, business assets) or unsecured

Interest Payable

Only on funds drawn

Review Period

Annual or periodic reviews required

Use of Funds

Working capital, payroll, inventory, growth projects

What are the benefits and drawbacks of Low Doc Loans?

Pros

Cons

✅ Highly flexible — draw and repay funds as needed

❌ May involve annual or facility fees even if unused

✅ Only pay interest on what you use

❌ Interest rates are often higher than standard term loans

✅ Immediate access to cash for business needs

❌ Facility reviews or renewals can tighten conditions over time

✅ Can act as a financial safety net without committing to long-term debt

❌ Can create cash flow strain if overused without discipline

Who a Line of Credit Suits

Low Doc Loan vs. Other Loan Types

Facility

Best For

Flexibility

Security

Typical Speed

Debtor Finance

Unlocking cash from outstanding invoices

Medium-High

Invoice ledger

Fast (24–48 hours)

Line of Credit

Ongoing flexible funding

High

Property/business assets or unsecured

Fast

Business Overdraft

Covering unexpected short-term cash needs

Very High

Linked to business accounts

Immediate

Invoice Finance

Selectively funding single invoices

Medium-High

Single invoice security

Fast (24–48 hours)

Trade Finance

Paying suppliers/importers

Medium

Goods or receivables

Moderate

Key Terms to Understand

Leases

Credit Limit

The maximum amount available to draw at any time.

Facility Fee

A fee charged annually or monthly for maintaining access to the facility, even if unused.

Drawn Amount

The funds currently used by the borrower (interest is charged only on this amount).

Chattel Mortgages

Undrawn Amount

The portion of the facility available to draw if needed.

Hire Purchase Agreements

Secured vs. Unsecured Line of Credit

Secured facilities require collateral; unsecured lines rely on business strength alone.

Annual Review

A periodic lender reassessment of business performance and risk to maintain or adjust the facility.

Need Help Finding the Right Loan?

At Baseline Finance, we specialise in finding flexible solutions for commercial borrowers — whether you’re fully documented or not.