Don’t let payment terms hold your business back

For the majority of businesses, delays in payment isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a barrier to growth, hiring, and day-to-day operations.

We see firsthand how slow-paying customers, particularly large companies with extended terms, can disrupt cash flow and create financing gaps. That’s why we provide fast, flexible funding solutions that help SMEs unlock the cash tied up in their invoices —turning waiting periods into working capital.

Addressing late payments could unlock £112 billion in cashflow for small businesses

62

of UK small businesses surveyed are owed money from unpaid invoices, averaging £21,400 in outstanding invoices per business.*

55

of UK SMEs say rising late payments disrupt growth, hiring, and operations.**

*Intuit QuickBooks Small Business Late Payments Report

**NatWest Group, Late Payments Research

DIVE DEEPER

OUR PHILOSOPHY

A trusted funder with the power, precision, and passion to deliver

Clients choose eCapital when they need an engaged, solutions-oriented, long-term credit partner with proven capacity, creativity, and continuity. Our expertise lies in bespoke funding — from small and mid-market facilities to large, complex solutions — delivered with meticulous, hands-on strategies that adapt to meet the unique needs of UK businesses.

Our regional experts are agile and client-focused, supported by the resources to handle complex challenges. We’re a reliable credit partner through every business cycle — flexible, patient, and proven. Our track record speaks for itself.

Fast facts
20
YEARS OF SERVICING UK CLIENTS
5000
SATISFIED CLIENTS GLOBALLY
VIEW OUR LATEST PARTNERSHIPS

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See how eCapital can help with extended payment terms

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Frequently asked questions
about extended payment terms

What are extended payment terms?

Extended Payment Terms refer to the practice of lengthening the period of time a buyer has to pay for goods or services after purchase. Instead of requiring payment immediately or within a short period (such as 30 days, which is quite common), a seller might provide extended payment terms of 60, 90, or even 120 days.

This practice is often used as a financial strategy by businesses, particularly in uncertain economic times. By extending payment terms, companies can maintain more cash on hand, enhancing their financial flexibility and helping them navigate financial challenges more securely.

Why do buyers ask for extended payment terms?

Customers often request longer terms to improve their own cash flow, align payments with their revenue cycles, or negotiate more favourable purchasing conditions—especially in large or long-term contracts.

How do extended payment terms affect my business?

They can strain your cash flow, especially if you have to cover expenses like payroll, fuel, inventory, or rent while waiting to be paid. Over time, this can limit your ability to grow, invest, or even operate efficiently.

What are some ways to manage extended payment terms?

Suppliers often turn to invoice finance to convert unpaid invoices into immediate working capital. Other options include renegotiating terms, tightening credit policies, or offering early payment discounts.

Do extended terms mean a higher risk of non-payment?

Not necessarily, but the longer the payment window, the higher the exposure. Monitoring customer credit and working with funding partners who offer credit checks can help mitigate risk.

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Looking to learn more about an extended payment terms?

Read our article Supporting Extended Payment Terms: Techniques to Protect Your Cashflow

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