UK Business Loans vs Overdrafts: Cash Flow for Accountants
Short answer (30–60 words)
For accountants needing short‑term cashflow: arranged bank overdrafts are best for immediate, small or unpredictable gaps; short‑term business loans (and lines of credit or invoice finance) are better when you need a larger known sum, fixed repayments and predictable budgeting. UK Business Loans introduces you to lenders and brokers — we do not lend.
Key points
- Best use of an overdraft: immediate day‑to‑day smoothing (payroll, supplier timing), flexible draw/repay, familiar bank relationship — but costs are variable and banks can review or reduce limits.
- Best use of a short‑term loan: planned short periods (3–24 months), predictable monthly payments, larger amounts (typically from ~£10,000), may require security or personal guarantees; funding usually takes days to a few weeks.
- Other useful products: revolving lines of credit, invoice finance (release cash tied up in invoices), merchant cash advances or bridging for one‑off timing gaps.
- Practical considerations for practices: client money rules, HMRC/VAT deadlines, seasonal staffing needs, impact on forecasting and partner drawings, and potential tax treatment of interest/fees.
- Quick facts: submitting an enquiry to UK Business Loans is not a loan application and does not affect your credit score. We match practices to lenders/brokers who understand professional services.
Next step
Compare options quickly and without obligation via our Free Eligibility Check: https://ukbusinessloans.co/get-quote/
Author / last updated
UK Business Loans team — Last updated 29 October 2025.
