How-to

How to cut the interest you pay on a business loan

Less balance, less time, lower rate — those are the three levers. You can cut the interest on a loan by shrinking the balance faster, borrowing over a shorter term, or refinancing to a lower rate. Here is how to pull each lever without tripping over an early-repayment charge.

2 min read

OverpayShrink the balance
Shorten the termLess time, less interest
RefinanceTo a lower rate

Estimates the settlement balance now and the interest you'd save by paying a loan off early. Assumes a fixed-rate annuity and no early-settlement fee.

Step 1 — overpay where it is free

Check the terms, then overpay when you have spare cash. On a reducing-balance loan, every pound off the principal removes all the future interest that pound would have cost — provided there is no early-repayment charge.

Step 2 — choose the shortest affordable term

A shorter term raises the monthly payment but cuts total interest, because you hold the money for less time. Borrow over the shortest term your cover comfortably supports.

Step 3 — refinance to a lower rate

If your profile has improved, refinance to a lower margin. Net off any early-repayment charge and arrangement fee first — see consolidating business debt.

Step 4 — manage a revolving balance tightly

On a revolving facility, draw only what you need and repay as soon as you can — daily accrual rewards it.

Step 5 — settle early if the maths works

Consider an early settlement if the interest saved beats what the cash could earn elsewhere and any charge. Model it with the calculator below.

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally, and takes no personal guarantee. See indicative terms on business loans, or apply online in minutes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest way to cut interest?

Overpaying a reducing-balance loan where overpayments are free — every pound off the principal removes all its future interest. Always check for an early-repayment charge first.

Does a shorter term always cost less overall?

Yes, at the same rate — you hold the money for less time. The trade-off is a higher monthly payment, so match the term to what you can comfortably afford.

Is it worth settling a loan early?

Only if the interest saved, net of any charge, beats what the cash could earn or is needed elsewhere. Get a settlement figure and do the maths.

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.