Business overdraft

Quick facts

Whether you need cash quickly or you’re after a safety net that you can use occasionally, a business overdraft could be the answer. However, it’s become more difficult to get an overdraft with the major banks. Instead, you might want to consider alternatives such as a revolving credit line, a business credit card, a business cash advance or other types of working capital finance.

There are two obvious reasons you might want to use an overdraft: you might need cash quickly (i.e. you might need to access working capital buffer) or you might want a safety net to use occasionally in times of need.

It has become more difficult to get traditional business overdrafts from the major banks, especially if you are a small business. But don’t worry, there are lots of alternatives to business overdrafts. Here are some other types of working capital finance:

  • short-term or medium term business loan (i.e. working capital loan)
  • revolving credit line
  • invoice finance (i.e. invoice factoring, invoice discounting and CHOCs)
  • trade finance (if you’re dealing with international buyers and suppliers)
  • business cash advance
  • business credit card
  • asset refinance
  • purchase order finance
  • supplier finance.

Register now for funding and savings options tailored to your business.

Ready to grow your business?

Clever finance tips and the latest news

Delivered to your inbox monthly

Join the 110,000+ businesses just like yours getting the Swoop newsletter.

Free. No spam. Opt out whenever you like.

We work with world class partners to help us support businesses with finance

Swoop Finance Limited helps UK firms access business finance by working directly with businesses and their trusted advisors. We act as a credit broker, not a lender, and do not provide loans or finance products ourselves. We introduce applicants to a panel of lenders, equity funds, and grant agencies based on individual circumstances and creditworthiness.
Commission Disclosure: We typically receive a commission from the finance provider (either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage of the amount you receive) upon successful placement. Different providers pay different rates. For certain lenders, we may have influence over the interest rate, which can impact the total amount payable under your agreement.
Regulatory Information:

  • FCA: Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a credit broker (FRN: 936513) and registered as an Account Information Services Provider (Ref: 833145).

  • ICO: Registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (Ref: ZA600162); registration can be verified at ico.org.uk.

  • Company Details: Registered in England & Wales with Companies House (No. 11163382). Registered Address: The Stable Yard, Vicarage Road, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes, MK11 1BN. VAT Number: 300080279.

Terms: All finance and quotes are subject to status, income, and terms and conditions. Applicants must be aged 18 or over. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Please refer to our terms and conditions and our complaints procedure for further details.

© Swoop 2026

Looks like you're in . Go to our site to find relevant products for your country. Go to Swoop