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Working capital

Cash credit vs overdraft: which working capital limit fits your business?

Both are running limits where you pay interest on what you use, but they are secured and assessed differently. Here's a plain-language comparison.

Published · 4 min read

Working capital limits let a business draw funds as needed up to a sanctioned limit, and repay as cash comes in. The two most common forms are Cash Credit (CC) and Overdraft (OD).

Cash Credit (CC)

  • Usually secured by hypothecation of stock and book debts
  • Available amount linked to 'drawing power' calculated from periodic stock statements
  • Suited to traders and manufacturers with inventory and receivables
  • Typically renewed annually after review

Overdraft (OD)

  • Often secured by property, fixed deposits or other assets
  • Limit may not depend on monthly stock statements
  • Suited to service businesses and professionals with fluctuating needs
  • Terms and renewal depend on the lender and security

Questions to ask yourself

  • How long is my operating cycle from purchase to collection?
  • Do I hold significant stock or receivables?
  • What security can I offer?
  • How seasonal is my business?

The right structure depends on your cash cycle, security and the lender's policy. Interest rates, charges and drawing-power rules are set by the lender, compare sanction terms carefully.

Abhigamyah Fins is a loan consultancy. We are not a bank or lender. All lending decisions, interest rates and terms are decided solely by the relevant lender. Loan approval is not guaranteed.

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