What is the difference between a loan agreement and a loan note?

Asked by: Rachelle Hessel  |  Last update: July 10, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (73 votes)

Key takeaways A loan agreement is a contract between a borrower and a lender that specifies what each party has agreed to. A promissory note is where one party promises, in writing, to pay a set amount to the other according to their agreement.

Do you need both a loan agreement and a promissory note?

promissory note, you'll see the documents have some significant differences. As a borrower, you should have a loan agreement because of the additional protections it provides. The reason is that a promissory note doesn't bind the lender in any way.

What is another name for a loan agreement?

A loan agreement may be called a number of different things, including a loan contract, a credit agreement, a financing agreement, and in some cases, a promissory note.

What is a loan note?

A loan note is a type of financial instrument; it is a contract for a loan that specifies when the loan must be repaid and usually also the interest payable. It is similar to a promissory note but the differences can be significant in terms of consequences, especially tax consequences.

Is a note the same as a contract?

The promissory note is issued by the lender and is signed by the borrower (but not the lender). It is considered a contract, and signing it legally obligates the borrower to pay back the amount borrowed, plus any interest, as defined in the promissory note.

What is a Loan Agreement EXPLAINED

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What is the difference between a note and a loan agreement?

Key takeaways

A loan agreement is a contract between a borrower and a lender that specifies what each party has agreed to. A promissory note is where one party promises, in writing, to pay a set amount to the other according to their agreement.

What is the difference between agreement and contract notes?

Contracts create legal obligations that must be fulfilled by the parties, while agreements may not create any legal obligations. Contracts involve the exchange of something of value between the parties, such as money, goods, services, etc., while agreements may not involve any exchange of value.

Is a note the same as a loan?

A promissory note is a simple document that is not as complex as a loan agreement, and may be shorter and less detailed. It is a useful way of recording a promise to pay back money. Also, it is a good way to establish a clear written record or paper trail of a loan between individuals or entities (such as banks).

What is the difference between a bond and a loan note?

Loan notes are different to bonds and it is down to the pecking order on a winding up. Loans to the company form the banks will be secured on all the assets with a floating charge. Bonds will be secured on certain assets with a fixed charge. Loan notes may or may not be secured.

What is the 8% loan note?

The 8% loan notes are convertible into eight ordinary shares per loan note in seven years' time. If not converted, the loan notes can be redeemed on the same future date at their nominal value of $100. Par Co has a cost of debt of 9% per year. The ordinary shares of Par Co have a nominal value of $1 per share.

Who writes a loan agreement?

Lenders are typically responsible for drawing up a loan contract to detail the commitments of a loan agreement with borrowers, from how funds will be used to exactly how and when they will be repaid.

Does a loan agreement mean approval?

Does a Loan Agreement Mean Approval? No, entering into a valid loan agreement does not necessarily mean that you are approved for the loan.

What is an agreement also known as?

accord, pact, treaty. a written agreement between two states or sovereigns.

How legally binding is a promissory note?

Promissory notes are legally binding whether the note is secured by collateral or based only on the promise of repayment. If you lend money to someone who defaults on a promissory note and does not repay, you can legally possess any property that individual promised as collateral.

Are loan agreements legally binding?

A personal loan agreement is a legally binding contract that defines the expectations for both a borrower and a lender. It can be drawn up with an official lender, like a bank or credit union, or used in a more informal situation, such as with a friend who's lending you an amount of money.

Do you need a notary for a promissory note?

Different states have unique laws on whether a promissory note must be notarized. In New York, notarization isn't mandated for promissory notes to be enforceable. However, in California, while not explicitly required by law, notarization adds an extra layer of protection and legitimacy.

What is the difference between a loan note and a loan agreement?

A Promissory note is essentially an unconditional written promise to repay a loan or other debts, at a fixed or determinable future date. Although it is legally enforceable, a promissory note is less formal than a loan agreement and is suitable where smaller sums of money are involved.

Which is better notes or bonds?

Traditional bonds are generally considered safer investments compared to structured notes. Bonds issued by solid governments or companies with high credit ratings have a lower default risk.

What are the risks of loan notes?

The main risk associated with trading Loan Notes is the risk of default. If the borrower fails to repay the loan, the value of the Loan Note can plummet, leading to significant losses for the trader.

Do I need a loan agreement and a promissory note?

If the sum is not huge and the relationship is trustworthy, it is preferred to go with a promissory note to avoid potential legal issues. However, if the sum of money is huge and the relationship is not entirely trustable, make sure to use a secured loan agreement to ensure your money is safe with the borrower.

What are the benefits of a loan note?

What are the benefits of a loan note? A loan note can offer greater flexibility than a simple loan agreement, while still being legally actionable should it need to be upheld in court. They are also much easier to enforce than an informal IOU because the legal terms of the agreement are much more clearly defined.

Is a note a bond or loan?

A note is a debt security obligating repayment of a loan, at a predetermined interest rate, within a defined time frame. Notes are similar to bonds but typically have an earlier maturity date than other debt securities, such as bonds.

What is the difference between a note and a contract?

Promissory notes can involve collateral to secure the loan amount. Contracts typically do not involve collateral but rather establish the rights and obligations of the parties involved in the agreement.

Is there a legal difference between a contract and an agreement?

Both involve the meeting of minds and exchange of promises, but a contract typically entails a more formalized arrangement, often documented in writing, and carries legal enforceability. Conversely, an agreement can be informal and may not always be legally binding.

What makes an agreement legally binding?

What makes a contract legally binding? To make a contract legally binding, it needs to include several key elements: Offer and acceptance — One party needs to offer something (money, services, rights, etc.), and the other party needs to accept the offer. Consideration — The benefit that both parties receive.