Answer

What is the difference between a loan and a lease?

A loan lends you money to buy and own an asset; a lease lets you use an asset without owning it — the choice turns on whether you want to keep the asset.

2 min read

LoanBuy and own
LeaseUse, not own
Keep it?Decides the choice

How they differ

With a loan (or hire purchase) you buy the asset and own it, sometimes at the end of the term. With a lease you effectively rent it, returning or upgrading it later. See asset finance.

When each fits

A loan or hire purchase suits assets you want to keep long term. A lease suits assets that date quickly or that you prefer to upgrade regularly, keeping capital free. Match the method to how long the asset stays useful to you.

What it means for you

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally, and takes no personal guarantee. See business loans or apply online.

Frequently asked questions

Is leasing cheaper than a loan?

Not necessarily — it depends on the terms and how long you keep the asset. Leasing keeps capital free and suits assets you upgrade often; a loan suits assets you want to own.

Do I own the asset with a lease?

Generally no — a lease is closer to renting. Hire purchase, by contrast, leads to ownership once the payments are complete.

Funding for UK limited companies

Credicorp lends to your company, not to you personally — short-term working capital with no personal guarantee. See what your business could access.