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Audit is a size threshold, not a lending rule
Only companies above certain size thresholds must have their accounts audited. The vast majority of small limited companies are exempt and file unaudited accounts — which lenders accept without issue.
What lenders actually rely on
Your filed accounts, management figures if available, and bank statements. These give a clear picture of trading and affordability whether or not the accounts were audited. In practice a cash-flow lender leans hardest on the bank data, which shows real money moving regardless of how the accounts were prepared or signed off.
Applying
Unaudited accounts are fine — gather them, check your headroom with the affordability calculator, and apply online.
Frequently asked questions
Are audited accounts required for a business loan?
No. Most small companies are audit-exempt and borrow on unaudited filed accounts plus bank statements. Audit is a statutory size matter, not a lending requirement.
What if my company is small and unaudited?
That is the norm and no obstacle. Lenders assess filed accounts, management figures and bank statements — audit status does not affect eligibility.
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