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What is a current account credit?

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Updated on: July 3, 2025
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A line of credit (LOC) gives you flexible access to funds up to a set limit. But how does a line of credit work exactly? It allows you to withdraw money as needed, repay it, and borrow again. You only pay interest on the amount used—not the total limit—making it a smart way to manage business expenses, cash flow gaps, or unexpected costs.

Table of contents:

  1. How does a line of credit work?
  2. How does the line of credit appear on the balance sheet?
  3. When is a line of credit useful?
  4. Manage your line of credit with Payt
  5. Frequently asked questions about lines of credit

How does a line of credit work?

When you apply for a line of credit, your business gets access to a revolving credit limit. You can draw funds when needed and repay on your own schedule—as long as you stay within the agreed limit. That flexibility is what makes a line of credit so valuable.

For instance, if you’re approved for $ 20,000 and use $ 5,000, you’ll still have $ 15,000 available. Pay back $ 2,000, and your available balance increases to $ 17,000.

There are two types of LOCs:

  • Secured lines are backed by collateral like property or savings.
  • Unsecured lines don’t require collateral but may have higher interest rates. That’s what an unsecured line of credit means.

A key question often asked is the difference between a line of credit and loan. A loan gives you a lump sum with fixed repayments. A line of credit is ongoing—you use and repay it as needed.

How does the line of credit appear on the balance sheet?

A line of credit shows on the balance sheet depending on your usage. Here are two examples.

Example 1: Positive cash flow

AssetsAmount (USD)Liabilities & equityAmount (USD)
Fixed assetsEquity
Property150,000Paid-in capital100,000
Equipment20,000Retained earnings25,000
Current assetsCurrent liabilities
Inventory10,000Accounts payable8,000
Accounts receivable12,000
Bank25,000
Total217,000Total217,000

Example 2: Active line of credit

AssetsAmount (USD)Liabilities & equityAmount (USD)
Fixed assetsEquity
Property150,000Paid-in capital100,000
Equipment20,000Retained earnings30,000
Current assetsCurrent liabilities
Inventory10,000Accounts payable8,000
Accounts receivable12,000Line of credit5,000
Bank25,000
Total217,000Total217,000

 

When is a line of credit useful

Lines of credit are ideal when:

  • You’re dealing with seasonal cash flow changes
  • You face unexpected costs or investments
  • You need financial flexibility without long-term debt

Instead of applying for a new loan each time, a line of credit gives you access to what you need—when you need it. It also differs from a letter of credit, which is used mainly in trade to guarantee payments. That’s the difference between a line of credit and letter of credit.

Manage your line of credit with Payt

With Payt, you gain full visibility over your accounts receivable. Our smart credit management software helps you automate reminders, follow-ups, and communication with your clients. That means more control, fewer overdue payments, and better decisions on using your line of credit.

Benefits of Payt:

  • Faster payments: Invoices are paid up to 30-50% faster
  • Time-saving: Up to 80% less time spent on manual tasks
  • Total control: Customize when and how you follow up with customers
  • Data security: ISO 27001 certified cloud platform

Want to strengthen your financial position? Download our brochure or schedule a free demo today.

Frequently asked questions about lines of credit

It gives you revolving access to funds, letting you borrow and repay flexibly up to a set limit. You pay interest only on what you use.

A loan is fixed and repaid over time. A line of credit is reusable, giving you more flexibility.

It’s a credit line granted without requiring collateral—typically with higher interest rates and stricter credit criteria.

A line of credit funds purchases; a letter of credit is a bank guarantee used in business transactions.

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By Aida Kopijn

Aida is an accounts receivable management expert at Payt, known for her precision and organisational passion. She ensures every process is perfectly managed and optimised.

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