What is A Demand Line of Credit?
A demand line of credit, also known as a demand loan or a demand revolving credit facility, is a type of credit arrangement where the lender provides funds to the borrower up to a predetermined credit limit, and the borrower can draw funds as needed. Unlike traditional term loans or lines of credit with fixed repayment schedules, a demand line of credit does not have a specified maturity date or fixed repayment terms. Instead, the lender can demand repayment of the outstanding balance at any time, often with little or no prior notice.
Here are the key features and characteristics of a demand line of credit:
- Flexibility: A demand line of credit offers flexibility to borrowers as they can access funds as needed, similar to a revolving credit facility. Borrowers can draw funds up to the approved credit limit, use them for various purposes, and repay the borrowed amount at their own pace.
- No Fixed Repayment Schedule: Unlike term loans or installment loans, a demand line of credit does not have a fixed repayment schedule with predetermined installment payments. Borrowers have the flexibility to repay the outstanding balance in full or make partial payments based on their financial circumstances.
- Interest Accrual: Interest accrues on the outstanding balance of the demand line of credit based on the applicable interest rate and the amount of funds borrowed. Borrowers are typically required to make interest payments on a regular basis, although some demand lines of credit may allow interest to be capitalized and added to the outstanding balance.
- Revocable by Lender: One of the key characteristics of a demand line of credit is that the lender has the right to demand repayment of the outstanding balance at any time, often without providing prior notice to the borrower. This feature gives the lender significant flexibility and control over the credit facility, allowing them to manage risk and liquidity more effectively.
- Credit Limit: Lenders establish a maximum credit limit for the demand line of credit based on the borrower’s creditworthiness, financial profile, and relationship with the lender. Borrowers can draw funds up to the approved credit limit, subject to the availability of funds and any restrictions specified in the credit agreement.
- Collateral: Demand lines of credit may be secured or unsecured, depending on the terms negotiated between the borrower and the lender. Secured demand lines of credit require the borrower to pledge collateral, such as real estate, equipment, or other assets, to secure the credit facility, providing added security for the lender.
- Usage: Demand lines of credit are commonly used by businesses to manage short-term cash flow needs, finance working capital requirements, or take advantage of investment opportunities. They are also used by individuals for personal financing needs, emergency expenses, or other short-term liquidity needs.
Overall, a demand line of credit provides borrowers with flexibility and access to funds on an as-needed basis, with the lender having the ability to demand repayment of the outstanding balance at any time. This type of credit facility is suitable for borrowers who require flexibility in managing their finances and are comfortable with the potential for the lender to demand repayment on short notice.
RELATED articles
OTHER TERMS BEGINNING WITH "D"
- Days Sales Outstanding (DSO)
- Debt Advisor (U.S)
- Debt Consolidation
- Debt Covenant
- Debt Equity Ratio (D/E ratio)
- Debt Financing
- Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR)
- Debt to Assets Ratio
- Debt to Income Ratio (DTI)
- Debt Yield
- Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio
- Debtor
- Debtor Finance
- Debtor Report
- Debtor-in-Possession (DIP)
- Debtor-in-Possession Financing
- Deductions
- Deed of Company Arrangement (DOCA)
- Deposit Account Control Agreement (DACA)
- Depreciation
- Depreciation & Amortization
- Dilution
- Dilution of Receivables
- Dilutive Financing
- Directional Boring Financing
- Discount
- Distress Cost
- Divestment
- Documentation Fee
- Double Brokering
- Dry Van
- Due Diligence
- Dynamic Discounting