Emergency Business Loans

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Written by Simon Moorcroft | Reviewed by Richard Wilcock | Updated: July 01, 2025

Emergency Business Funding when you need it most

As a business owner, you can budget adequately and count all the pennies, but cash flow problems can still find you. Cash flow problems won’t always be your fault. Something unexpected might happen, such as delayed customer payments, unexpected insurance payouts, or bills, which, in turn, holds up your entire business operation. And a holdup in business operations means your business is at risk.

Cash flow is frustrating and the bane of many UK businesses - 19.8% of businesses said that after just one to three months, their cash reserves would run out. So if you have problems with cash flow, you’re in good company.

Emergency business loans can lend a much-needed helping hand to UK businesses with urgent needs. We’ve put together what you need to know now - how emergency business loans work, what you can use them for, and how to apply.


What is an emergency business loan?

An emergency business loan is a loan you can access quickly for emergency use. It can be useful if you have a sudden cash-flow problem, or you need to urgently fulfil a new contract or order fast.

Running a business is stressful, particularly when a new project becomes available and you’re unable to move forward with it because of insufficient funds. But you don’t need to let cash flow hold you back — that’s where an emergency business loan comes to the rescue.

There are many options for emergency small business loans available on the market, so we can match you with the fastest and most suitable emergency loan for your situation.


How fast can you get an emergency business loan?

The emergency business loan application process is designed to give businesses access to finance quickly, hence the term ‘emergency’. That’s what makes it different from a standard business loan. So if you’re looking for a quick cash injection, even on the same day as your application, an emergency business loan could be a good option for you.

An emergency business loan works like any other loan product. You agree on an amount with your chosen lender, they loan you the money, and you pay it back with interest on a monthly basis.

Remember that an emergency business loan is a short-term financial solution, and should not be used to absolve your business debt.

Struggling with debt? Business Debtline is a charity run by the Money Advice Trust. They offer free debt advice for the self-employed and small businesses in England, Wales, and Scotland.

How can an emergency loan help your business recover?

Emergency funds for business owners can support your business through a rough patch, helping you get back on your feet where you feel confident about the future of your business. An injection of cash can give you peace of mind by helping you achieve instant healthy cash flow. Good cash flow is what your business depends on, and when unexpected bills pop up or a client delays making payment, your business can be put in a difficult situation.

Read more about what you can spend your emergency business financing on below.

Start your search for business funding
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Checking won’t affect your credit score


What can an emergency business loan be used for?

An emergency business loan can be used to get you through a rough patch in your business. That rough patch could include:

  • A cash injection to pay operating expenses, such as staff wages, bills, rent, etc.
  • Covering unexpected expenses, boiler issues, insurance payouts, etc.
  • Support with short-term marketing or advertising costs
  • If your business is seasonal, you could use an emergency business loan to plug the financial gap
Remember, if you’re in debt, it’s essential you don’t take out further finance; you’re best seeking professional debt advice. Read our guide on how to get business debt advice for free today.

A secured or unsecured emergency business loan?

You can get a secured or unsecured emergency business loan, and which you choose depends on your circumstances. A secured loan is secured with collateral, making it less risky for the lender. You can also enjoy lower interest rates and a bigger loan. An unsecured loan is quicker to process, but you will be personally liable if you fail to make timely repayments.

Read more about the differences between unsecured business loans and secured business loans.


Will I be accepted for an emergency business loan?

Each lender has its own criteria. But most lenders will look at your circumstances, the amount you want to borrow, and your business’s financial health to determine your risk as a borrower when applying for an emergency business loan.

Why not check your eligibility for an emergency business loan? - Applying won’t affect your credit score.


Can I get an emergency business loan with bad credit?

Yes, you can. Obtaining an emergency business loan with bad credit can be challenging, but it's not impossible. There are lenders we work with that offer emergency business loans to companies with a bad credit history.


How to apply for an emergency business loan?

Applying for emergency small business loans are easier than you may think. Fill in our form and we'll instantly match to the right lenders on our panel. Request quotes directly from lenders, and they’ll contact you to discuss. You can then compare and choose the best option for you.

There is no obligation to accept any UK lender quote; simply collect quotes,compare, and apply when you’re ready. If you decide to apply for an emergency loan with one of our lenders, the lender will process your application for you directly.


Why choose Capalona for emergency business loans?

We know how overwhelming it can be to find the right finance for your business needs; we’ve been there. And that’s exactly why we’ve set up Capalona.

As an online broker, our loan matching comparison service is completely free for you to use. We’re here to help you sift through lenders effortlessly to find the right funding for your business, which will ultimately help support business growth.

We’ve already helped thousands of businesses just like yours. Our service is free, what have you got to lose?

Apply here for a business emergency loan.

About the author

Simon Moorcroft
Written by Simon Moorcroft

Money Writer, Director and Co-Founder

Simon has over 15 years of experience in consumer and business finance. Simon is a Co-Founder and Director at Capalona and heads up the technology team, who utilises the latest technology to assist our customers in sourcing finance.

Updated: July 01, 2025
Published: March 30, 2021
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What our customers say...

Adrian TCapalona verified review

5/5

Amazingly fast, efficient service, minimal paperwork. So much faster than my business bank of twelve years.

Jasmine MCapalona verified review

5/5

Thanks to Capalona providing a great service, I was able to speedily find a solution to my cash flow issue in my business.

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Reviews last updated on 20 June 2025