Can you get a car on finance through your business?

Roman Danaev

02 February 2023

Yes, it is possible to get a car on finance through your business in the UK. There are several options available for businesses to finance the purchase of a car, including lease agreements, hire purchase agreements, and business loans.

Lease agreements

A lease agreement, also known as a car lease or lease financing, is a contract in which a lender agrees to allow a business to use a car for a specific period of time in exchange for regular payments. At the end of the lease period, the business can choose to return the car to the lender or purchase it outright.

Lease agreements can be an attractive option for businesses because they allow the business to use a car without having to make a large upfront payment or commit to a long-term loan. Lease payments are typically lower than loan payments, as they only cover the cost of using the car rather than the full purchase price.

However, it is important to note that lease agreements usually have strict mileage limits and may require the business to pay additional fees if the car is returned in poor condition.

Hire purchase agreements

A hire purchase agreement, also known as a car loan or financing, is a contract in which a business agrees to make regular payments to a lender in exchange for the use of a car. At the end of the agreement, the business has the option to purchase the car outright or return it to the lender.

Hire purchase agreements can be a good option for businesses that want to own the car outright at the end of the agreement. However, it is important to note that hire purchase agreements typically have higher interest rates than loans and may require the business to make a large upfront payment.

Business loans

Business loans are a type of financing that allows a business to borrow money from a lender to purchase a car. Business loans can be secured or unsecured, depending on whether the business offers collateral to the lender.

Secured business loans are backed by an asset, such as a car, and may have lower interest rates than unsecured loans. Unsecured business loans do not require collateral, but may have higher interest rates as a result.

Business loans can be a good option for businesses that want to own a car outright and have the financial stability to make regular loan payments. However, it is important to carefully consider the terms of the loan and the impact it may have on the business's financial situation.

What do I have to consider when financing a car through a limited company?

If you are considering financing a car through a limited company, there are a few things you should consider:

  1. Type of financing: There are several options available for financing a car through a limited company, including lease agreements, hire purchase agreements, and business loans. It is important to carefully consider the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that best meets your needs and budget.
  2. Affordability: It is important to ensure that your limited company can afford the monthly payments for the car loan or lease agreement. Consider your company's financial situation, including its cash flow and profitability, before committing to a car loan or lease.
  3. Tax implications: If you finance a car through your limited company, you may be able to claim tax relief on the interest payments or lease payments. However, it is important to consider the tax implications of the financing option you decide on and seek advice from a financial professional if necessary.
  4. Usage: Consider how the car will be used and whether it will be used primarily for business or personal use. This may affect the type of financing you select and the tax implications of the car.
  5. Maintenance and insurance: It is important to budget for the ongoing costs of maintaining and insuring the car, as these costs can add up over time. Consider purchasing a maintenance package or extended warranty to help manage these costs.
  6. Future plans: Think about your plans for the car and how they may impact your financing decision. For example, if you plan to sell the car shortly, a lease agreement may not be the best option.

In conclusion, financing a car through a limited company requires careful consideration of some factors, including the type of financing, affordability, tax implications, usage, maintenance and insurance costs, and plans. It is important to carefully assess your company's financial situation and long-term goals before making a decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many options available for businesses to finance the purchase of a car in the UK, including lease agreements, hire purchase agreements, and business loans. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is important for businesses to carefully consider their financial situation and long-term goals when deciding which option is best for them.