Answer

Is borrowing cheaper than losing a supplier discount?

Often yes — a prompt-payment discount can be worth far more, annualised, than the cost of short-term finance, so borrowing to take it can pay for itself.

2 min read

CompareDiscount vs finance cost
AnnualiseThe discount's value
Often winsDiscounts are rich

The comparison

An early-payment discount has an annualised value that is often surprisingly high — a 2% discount for paying 20 days early is worth far more than 2% a year. If that beats your cost of finance, borrowing to take it makes money.

Run the numbers

Annualise the discount and compare it against the short-term finance cost of paying early. Use the early payment discount calculator to check before you decide.

What it means for you

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

Frequently asked questions

Is a prompt-payment discount worth borrowing for?

Often, yes. Annualised, a small early-payment discount can be worth far more than the cost of short-term finance, so borrowing to take it can pay for itself.

How do I compare the discount and finance cost?

Annualise the discount using the days you would pay early, then compare it against the annual cost of the finance. If the discount is worth more, taking it pays.

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.