Invoice financing: Overview, definition and example
What is invoice financing?
Invoice financing is a way for businesses to get cash quickly by using their unpaid invoices as collateral. Instead of waiting for customers to pay, a business can sell its invoices to a financing company or borrow money against them, improving cash flow immediately.
Why is invoice financing important?
Invoice financing is important because it helps businesses maintain steady cash flow, especially when payments from customers are delayed. It allows businesses to cover daily expenses, pay suppliers, and invest in growth without waiting weeks or months for customer payments. For businesses with tight cash cycles, invoice financing can be a lifeline.
Understanding invoice financing through an example
Imagine a small construction company has completed a project for a large client, but the payment terms require the client to pay in 60 days. In the meantime, the company needs funds to purchase materials and pay workers for another project. The company uses invoice financing by selling the unpaid invoice to a financing provider for 90% of its value upfront. Once the client pays, the financing provider keeps a small fee and gives the remaining balance to the company.
In another example, an e-commerce business secures a short-term loan using its outstanding invoices as collateral. This gives the business the cash it needs to replenish inventory before the holiday shopping season.
An example of an invoice financing clause
“The Borrower agrees to provide the Lender with copies of unpaid invoices as collateral for financing. The Lender may advance up to 80% of the invoice value and will deduct applicable fees upon the customer’s payment of the invoice.”
Conclusion
Invoice financing is a practical tool for businesses needing quick access to cash tied up in unpaid invoices. By leveraging outstanding payments, businesses can maintain smooth operations, meet financial obligations, and seize new opportunities without waiting for customers to settle their accounts.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.