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Self employed business loans
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Cash flow challenge: I need fast, flexible finance to keep my business moving.
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Perfect for: Self employed professionals, freelancers, and sole traders who need quick access to funds for tax bills, client delays, or unexpected business costs.
Fast decisions. Flexible options. Funding over £2bn to more than 1,000 SMEs every year.
Call us on 01952 956920 to speak to a real cash flow expert. We’ll help you apply for the right type of finance and make sure you get a great deal for your business.
Or click 'Boost your cash flow' below to compare providers.
Our business loan options
Pages in this SectionWhat are self employed loans?
Self employed loans are funding options designed for individuals who work for themselves including freelancers, sole traders, or small business owners. Unlike traditional business loans, they focus on personal affordability and trading history rather than a fixed salary or corporate accounts.
These loans can be used for cash flow support, equipment finance, tax bills, or general working capital. Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for either secured or unsecured business loans.
How do self employed loans work?
Most self-employed loans are assessed based on your trading history and income stability. Lenders typically ask for recent bank statements, tax returns, or invoices as proof of income. Once approved, funds can often be available within 24-48 hours.
Common reasons to apply for a self employed loan
- Covering delayed client payments or seasonal income dips
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Paying urgent tax bills or supplier invoices
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Investing in new tools or business equipment
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Bridging short-term expenses before incoming revenue
- Expanding services or hiring support staff
What types of loans are available for self employed people?
- Unsecured business loans: for those with a proven trading history who prefer not to use assets as security.
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Secured business loans: Where funding is backed by property or equipment, often with lower interest rates.
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Merchant cash advances: Repay through a percentage of your card sales, ideal for retail or eCommerce businesses.
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Short-term business loans: Fast, flexible options for immediate cash flow gaps.
How it works with Novuna Business Cash Flow
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Tell us your situation and timeline
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We compare short-term business lenders based on your needs
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You apply with full support throughout
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Access funds fast to keep your plans on track
Fast decisions. Flexible options. Funding over £2bn to more than 1,000 SMEs every year.
Is a self employed loan right for you?
You need fast access to funds while managing irregular income
Self employed loans can help smooth out cash flow when income varies month to month ensuring you can cover costs
You want to invest in your business without disrupting day-to-day cash flow
Ideal if you need capital for equipment, marketing, or expansion but want to spread costs over manageable repayments aligned with your earnings.
You’re finding it difficult to secure traditional finance
Specialist lenders offer tailored self employed loans based on trading history, not just payslips or fixed salaries.
If that sounds like your business, we’ll help you compare lenders and apply with confidence.
Novuna can support businesses with a range of funding challenges
I want flexible finance to support short term costs
I’m investing in growth or recruitment
I want a loan backed by government support
I want to bridge a gap in my business finances
How we help
How Novuna helps businesses access funding fast
Tell us what you need
Start with a simple form or call - tell us your business challenge.
We compare your options
We compare multiple providers to get you a great deal.
Choose the right type of funding
Access a range of short-term funding options including loans, advances, and invoice finance.
Apply with expert support
Get help applying - with a real expert on hand throughout.
Get clear, transparent terms
No jargon, no surprises - just honest advice with no hidden fees.
Receive funding that grows with your sales
Accounts receivable factoring is a scalable solution that flexes as your turnover increases.
Why take action now
Bridge the gap before it slows you down
Self employed loans are designed for speed and flexibility
Acting quickly can give you better terms and more choice
We help you avoid delays or forced decisions due to cash flow
Why choose Novuna Business Cash Flow?
Why businesses trust us with bridging loans
We're highly rated by our existing customers
"The communication and support has been outstanding. Providing me with all the information I needed regarding new clients coming onto our books. The system they use is so user friendly and the drawdown payments are very efficient in the fast moving world of temporary payroll.'
More reviewsWe're a multi-award winning business cash flow specialist
Innovation in the SME Sector 2024
Alternative SME Lender of the Year
SME Lender of the Year 2023
Best Use of Technology 2023
Best Provider 2023
What business loans looks like in your sector
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Can I get a self employed loan with irregular income?
Yes, many lenders now offer self employed loans that take into account fluctuating income patterns. You’ll usually need to provide bank statements or tax returns to demonstrate affordability, but lenders will consider your full trading picture.
What documents do I need to apply?
You’ll typically need proof of ID, recent bank statements, and your latest SA302 or tax return. Speak to our advisors today and we will guide you through the process.
What’s the difference between self employed loans and standard business loans?
Standard business loans assess your company’s credit and accounts, while self employed personal loans and similar products look at your individual income and trading performance. This makes them more flexible for freelancers and sole traders.
