The Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) was introduced in May 2020, and helped businesses to survive the severe financial impact of Covid. It bolstered cash flow and supported day-to-day business operations, but many businesses have struggled to meet their Bounce Back Loan repayments.
The government guarantee provided to the scheme applied to lenders rather than businesses, so if you’ve received a Bounce Back Loan demand letter from your bank, you may be wondering how to proceed.
It’s important to understand that as a company director you’re not personally liable for your company’s debts. The corporate structure means that the business is a separate legal entity, and in the majority of cases, its finances are distinct from those of its directors.
Unless there has been misuse of the loan, you’re protected by the ‘veil of incorporation’ when it comes to business borrowing. So what are some examples of ‘misuse’ in terms of the Bounce Back Loan Scheme?
Worried about your Bounce Back Loan?
If you are a limited company director worried about how you are going to repay your Bounce Back Loan, we are here to help. As licensed insolvency practitioners we can talk you through your options when it comes to repaying your outstanding Bounce Back Loan, as well as handling all negotiations with creditors on your behalf. Call our team today on 0800 063 9262 .
These are a few examples of how a Bounce Back Loan might be misused:
Using the money for personal purposes
A Bounce Back Loan was intended to be used ‘for the economic benefit of the business,’ such as paying suppliers, employee wages, commercial rent, or day-to-day operational expenditures to keep the business running. This means it will be deemed misuse if you’ve used the Bounce Back Loan for personal purposes.
Overstating your business turnover on the loan application
The maximum allowable Bounce Back Loan amount was based on up to 25% of business turnover. This means that if you significantly overstated your turnover on the loan application, it could be viewed as being against the rules of the scheme.
Giving the funds to a family member/third party
Handing the funds from your Bounce Back Loan to a family member or other third party contravenes the basic requirement to use it for business purposes.
On occasion some banks, such as Santander, appear to be sending out speculative letters to chase Bounce Back Loan arrears, to see if companies will pay. These letters seem to be automated after three months of missed repayments.
If you’ve received a Bounce Back Loan demand letter from your bank, it’s worth considering whether it could be a speculative letter, but also advisable to obtain professional advice from a licensed insolvency practitioner (IP).
This professional guidance will be key in making the right move, as the IP will be able to base their assessment of the letter on your business’ individual circumstances.
The situation around Covid financing is complex, but it’s important to know that under normal circumstances you aren’t liable to repay business funding as a limited company director.
If your business enters insolvency, the protection provided by the corporate business structure can be removed should misconduct or misappropriation of funds be found. The letter you’ve received may simply be a speculative attempt by your bank to recover the money, however.
Start your online liquidation today
If you have decided liquidation is the right option for your limited company, you can take the first step and begin the process online using our online portal. Starting the process is quick, simple, and can be done at a time that suits you. Your information will be submitted to your local UK Liquidators insolvency practitioner who will be with you every step of the way. Click here to start your company’s liquidation online.
It’s important that you don’t ignore the letter, and that you seek a professional viewpoint. UK Liquidators are insolvency experts and can provide reliable guidance if you’ve received a letter of demand in relation to your Bounce Back Loan.
Please get in touch to arrange a free, same-day consultation so we can ensure you understand your options and the potential ramifications. We operate a broad network of local offices throughout the UK, so you’re never far from the professional support you need.
If you are considering liquidation for your limited company, taking advice from a licensed insolvency practitioner can help you understand your options.
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