Glossary

Write-off (bad debt)

Removing an unrecoverable debt from a company's books, recognising the loss when it becomes clear a customer will not pay.

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Definition

A write-off records that a debt owed to the business will not be collected, removing it from the books as a loss. It follows when a customer becomes insolvent or a debt is clearly uncollectable, turning an earlier provision into a realised loss.

Why it matters

Bad debts hit both profit and cash, straining affordability. Reducing them through credit control and prompt collection protects your borrowing capacity. See improving cash flow.

Funding for UK limited companies

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally — short-term working capital with no personal guarantee. See what your business could access.