Business finance when you have a CCJ
A County Court Judgment (CCJ) doesn’t have to end your funding plans. Some UK lenders will consider satisfied or older CCJs if affordability stacks up. We compare 80+ lenders across loans, revolving credit, and cash-flow products to find a fit.
Last updated: October 2025, edited by Joe Morley, reviewed by Vivek Seda
What is a CCJ?
Key takeaways
You can still get business finance with a CCJ — especially if it’s satisfied, older, low value, or well-explained — but expect tighter underwriting, possible security/PG, and pricing that reflects risk.
Best fits: secured loans, invoice finance, revolving credit facility, merchant cash advance, asset finance/refinance
What helps: proof the CCJ is satisfied or in a payment plan, clean recent bankings, strong management info
What hurts: multiple unsatisfied CCJs, recent missed payments, weak affordability
What is a CCJ (and why it matters)?
A County Court Judgment (CCJ) is a court order issued when a business fails to repay money owed. It can appear on your credit record for six years, making borrowing harder – but not impossible.
Some lenders specialise in bad credit business loans and may still approve funding if the CCJ was satisfied or is historic.
Can a business get finance with a CCJ?
Yes. While mainstream banks may decline applications, many alternative lenders offer tailored products for businesses with previous CCJs, particularly if:
The CCJ is satisfied or nearly settled
The business shows strong trading history and cash flow
Directors provide a personal guarantee
The funding is secured against assets or invoices
Funding Options by Tide partners with 80+ UK lenders to match businesses with suitable finance options – from short-term working-capital solutions to secured asset-backed loans.
How to get a loan with a CCJ?
Three options
In essence, only three options are open to you as a business owner with an open CCJ. First, you pay the judgment, and all funding options will be available again. Second, you can try to have the CCJ excused, involving going to court to explain why you don't owe the debt in question with the help of a solicitor. Or, third, you can seek a loan with a CCJ.
Diverse market
The lending market is diverse. Many lenders understand that a business with a CCJ might still have a viable business model and the ability to repay a new loan. It might have been an unforeseen cash flow issue that resulted in the CJJ. For example, a key customer missed a large payment, resulting in debt accumulation. Niche lenders can work with a business and look at the entire business and its plans for the future and not just the details on a credit file.
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Calculations are indicative only and intended as a guide only. The figures calculated are not a statement of the actual repayments that will be charged on any actual loan and do not constitute a loan offer.
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Financial product information
Representative example*
• 9.7% APR Representative based on a loan of £50,000 repayable over 24 months.
• Monthly repayment of £2,291.56. The total amount payable is £54,997.44
*Some lenders may apply fees during the application process, please note that these are set and provided by these entities.
Annual Percentage Rates
Rates from 8.2% APR
Repayment period
1 month to 30 years terms
What to expect
How CCJs affect business finance applications
CCJ status / factor | What lenders will typically check | Impact on finance options |
CCJ unpaid / recent | Credit file, amount owed, business fundamentals | Very few traditional loans; higher rates if approved |
CCJ satisfied / older | Time since debt, repayments history, current cash flow | Some lenders may offer asset‑based or flexible finance |
Strong business performance, assets or invoices | Cash flow forecasts, collateral/invoice book strength | Improved chances with specialist lenders or factoring providers |
Finance options for businesses with a CCJ
Asset finance
Asset finance is used to fund vehicles, machinery and equipment.
Invoice finance
Invoice finance releases money tied up in unpaid invoices.
Short-term loans
Flexible borrowing for cash flow.
Merchant cash advance
Merchant cash advance borrows against future card sales
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FAQs: business finance with a CCJ
Can I get a business loan if my company has a CCJ?
Yes — it’s possible. While many traditional lenders may decline applications with a CCJ on file, some specialist or alternative finance providers may still approve your application, especially if the CCJ is satisfied or your business has strong assets or cash flow.
Does a satisfied CCJ improve my chances of approval?
Definitely. A satisfied CCJ — one that’s been paid off — is viewed more positively than an unsatisfied one. It shows you’ve taken steps to resolve the issue, which can increase trust and widen your funding options.
Will a CCJ affect my business credit score?
Yes — a CCJ has a negative impact on your business credit score. The effect is more severe for unsatisfied CCJs and recent judgments. However, building strong financial behaviour, making repayments on time, and settling the CCJ can gradually improve your score.
Do I need to disclose my CCJ when applying for finance?
Yes. Transparency is key. Even if not asked directly, lenders will likely check your business credit file. Being upfront helps brokers like Funding Options by Tide find the most suitable lender for your circumstances.
Please note that the information above is not intended to be financial advice. You should seek independent financial advice before making any decisions about your financial future.
It’s important to remember that all loans and credit agreements come with risks. These risks include non-payment and late-payment of the agreed repayment plan, which could affect your business credit score and impact your ability to find future funding. Always read the terms and conditions of every loan or credit agreement before you proceed. Contact us for support if you ever face difficulties making your repayments.
Funding Options, now part of Tide, helps UK firms access business finance, working directly with businesses and their trusted advisors. Funding Options are a credit broker and do not provide loans directly. All finance and quotes are subject to status and income. Applicants must be aged 18 and over and terms and conditions apply. Guarantees and Indemnities may be required. Funding Options can introduce applicants to a number of providers based on the applicants' circumstances and creditworthiness. Funding Options will receive a commission or finder’s fee for effecting such finance introductions.
Joe Morley
Business Finance Lead
Joe has been helping UK businesses secure the funding they need since 2015. Over the years, he’s supported hundreds of SMEs in accessing millions of pounds for everything from purchasing essential assets to unlocking working capital for day-to-day operations. As Head of Sales at Funding Options, Joe leads a large team of expert Business Finance Specialists dedicated to finding the right solution for every customer. His goal is simple - to make securing finance straightforward, stress free, and tailored to each business’s needs.