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Guide · reviewed 11 November 2026
Emergency business funding: what to do first
Answer in brief
In an emergency, first check whether you can draw on an existing overdraft or facility, then talk to suppliers and HMRC about time to pay, then look at fast funding such as an online loan or merchant cash advance. Don't borrow expensively to cover a problem that will keep recurring.
Before you borrow
- Use existing facilities
- Ask suppliers for more time
- Speak to HMRC about a Time to Pay arrangement if you owe tax
- Chase overdue invoices
Help with debt
If you're struggling to repay existing debts, free business debt advice is available from charities such as Business Debtline.
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