Secured vs Unsecured Business Loans: What’s the difference?
When your business needs funding, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between a secured or unsecured business loan. Understanding these loan types is essential to selecting the right solution for your business’s financial needs and long-term goals.
In this blog, we'll explain the difference between secured and unsecured loans to help you decide which option aligns best with your business.
What is a Secured Business Loan?
A secured business loan is a type of borrowing that is backed by an asset that provides security for the lender. That could be equipment, vehicles, property, or a personal guarantee. If you’re unable to repay the loan, the lender has the right to recover the asset to recoup their loss.
Key features:
- Secured by business assets or personal guarantees
- May offer lower interest rates
- May have longer repayment terms
Secured loans are often used for larger funding needs or when a business is looking for lower monthly repayments over an extended term. Because the lender has a form of protection, they can usually offer more favourable interest rates and flexible terms.
What is an Unsecured Business Loan?
An unsecured business loan is when you borrow money from a lender that does not require you to provide any collateral. Instead, lenders assess your business’s creditworthiness, financial history, and ability to repay.
There are different types of unsecured loans available to businesses, including term loans, revolving credit facilities, and merchant cash advances.
Key features:
- No collateral required
- May have higher interest rates due to increased risk to the lender
- A good credit score is crucial, as it is the only security for the lender
Unsecured loans are a popular choice for businesses that need quick access to cash or those that don’t have physical assets to use as security for the lender. However, the amount you can borrow may be limited because they are a riskier lend for funders.
Difference Between Secured and Unsecured Loans
The difference between secured and unsecured business loans is that secured loans require collateral, while unsecured loans do not.
Here's a quick comparison to help you understand how each option stacks up:
| Feature | Secured Business Loan | Unsecured Business Loan |
| Collateral Required | Yes – business or personal assets | No |
| Interest Rates | Typically lower | Typically higher |
| Approval Time | May take longer due to asset valuation | Usually faster |
| Repayment Terms | Often longer and more flexible | Usually shorter |
| Borrowing Limits | May be higher depending on asset value | May be limited based on creditworthiness |
| Credit Score Importance | Still needed but less important if strong collateral offered | Crucial for approval and good terms |
Which Loan is Right for Your Business?
Choosing between a secured and unsecured business loan depends on your specific circumstances:
- A secured loan may be more suitable for you if you're seeking a larger amount, want lower interest rates, and have assets to offer as security.
- An unsecured loan may be the better choice if you need funds quickly, lack collateral, or need a smaller amount of money.
Both types of loans can play an important role in helping your business grow, manage cash flow, or invest in new opportunities.
Get Support from a Trusted Lending Partner
At Time Finance, we help UK businesses access Asset Finance and Invoice Finance, and we can also facilitate Secured Loans through our Multi-Product solutions. These secured funding options are designed to support your growth, improve cash flow, and drive long-term success.
Get in touch today to explore the right solution for your business.