BUSINESS OVERDRAFT ALTERNATIVES

Prepare for emergencies with flexible credit options

A traditional business overdraft isn't your only option for managing cash flow.

Whether you’re facing an unexpected bill or seizing a new opportunity, our range of overdraft alternatives offers the on-demand funding you’re looking for.

Access higher credit limits and transparent rates designed to move at the speed of your business.

Apply now

Already a Tide member? You can apply for a business loan and other finance directly within the Tide app.

Tide has joined forces with Funding Options, becoming the largest credit marketplace in the UK.

Providing over £1.1 billion in funding to more than 19,000 UK businesses, we’re on a mission to help business owners grow with confidence.

What are the benefits of flexible credit options?

Predictable costs

No surprise fees. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying upfront.

On-demand access

Once your facility has been set up, the money is there whenever you need it.

Protected cash flow

Keep your cash reserves for growth. Use the credit for daily spending.

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We've already helped businesses secure more than £1.1 billion

We’ve provided funding to more than 19,000 businesses across the UK, as part of our mission to help business owners grow with confidence.

How to apply for flexible credit

With access to over 80 lenders, Tide will find a lender tailored to your business - and the process is simple.

Tell us how much you need to borrow We’ll ask you how much you need, what it’s for, and for some basic information about your business.

Compare loans without impacting your credit score We’ll connect you to the largest network of lenders in the UK, so you can view affordable credit options that suit the unique needs of your business.

Apply in minutes Once approved, you’ll receive a quote from a lender you matched with.

Get a decision and credit is released Depending on the type of finance you’ve applied for, the money could be released in around 24 hours.

Apply now

Access additional capital when cash flow is low

While Tide provides modern alternatives to the traditional "big bank" overdraft, the goal remains the same: ensuring you have a buffer to cover unexpected costs, manage seasonal dips, or seize new opportunities without waiting for invoices to be paid.

Revolving credit facilities

As with an overdraft, revolving credit facilities come with a pre-approved limit that you can dip into at any time, which could be up to £1 million.

The benefit is they often offer higher credit limits and often aren’t tied to the terms and conditions of a business bank account.

Apply now

Business credit cards

The ultimate short-term safety net. Credit cards are ideal for daily expenses and small emergencies, acting as a great alternative to business overdrafts.

Access up to £250k to help cover your business expenses, build your credit score and earn valuable rewards whilst you spend.

Apply now

Merchant cash advance

If your business takes payments via a card reader or online, you could be eligible to receive an advance on your average monthly sales.

Access flexible funding that you’ll repay as a percentage of your daily card sales, meeting the demands of your business.

Apply now

How does a traditional business overdraft work?

1. Application

Typically you need to have had a business current account with a high-street bank for several months before you can even apply. This often involves lengthy paperwork and manual reviews.

2. Limits

Banks typically offer conservative limits based on historical data. If your business is growing fast or is relatively new, the amount offered may not meet your actual needs.

3. Repayment

One of the biggest risks of a traditional overdraft is that the bank can legally demand full repayment at any time, which can create a sudden financial crisis if your cash is tied up.

4. Interest

While an overdraft is convenient, interest is calculated daily. If you accidentally exceed your limit, "unarranged" fees can escalate quickly, making it an expensive way to borrow.

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What can our alternative business overdraft facilities be used for?

Don’t let a traditional bank’s overdraft limits hold your business back. Access flexible, on-demand funding with our range of overdraft alternatives.

Managing cash flow gaps

Smooth out the peaks and troughs of your monthly income. Use your facility to cover essential operating costs and overheads while waiting for client payments or outstanding invoices to clear.

Purchasing inventory

Don’t miss out on bulk-buy discounts or seasonal stock opportunities. Access quick finance to purchase inventory ahead of busy periods, ensuring you always have the supply to meet customer demand.

Covering emergency repairs

Equipment breakdowns don’t wait for payday. Having a flexible back-up plan ensures you can immediately repair or replace vital business tools, keeping your operations running and avoiding costly downtime.

Meeting payroll demands

Make sure your most valuable asset - your team - is always paid on time. Bridge the cash flow gap during slow months or transition periods to meet your staff obligations without any added financial stress.

Paying upcoming tax bills

Effortlessly manage your VAT or Corporation Tax bills by spreading the cost over time. This flexible approach helps you maintain working capital while avoiding late payment penalties from HMRC.

Investing in your growth

Whether it’s a new marketing campaign or a small office upgrade, use your flexible credit line to seize growth opportunities as they arise, rather than waiting for your bank balance to catch up.

Aaron MoOng Ong Buns

With the help of Tide and their team of business finance experts, I was able to navigate the complexities of business finance, and secure the necessary funds to grow my business.

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Tide is built by business owners for business owners. That’s why we’re trusted by over 1.5 million sole traders, freelancers, and limited companies worldwide.

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