Get exclusive money-saving offers and guides
Straight to your inbox
By signing up, you agree to the Finder
Privacy & Cookies Policy
and
Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy.
Loan Types
I Want
Line of credit vs overdraft
Line of credit or overdraft? Look at the features to help you choose the one that's right for you.
We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
Personal lines of credit and overdrafts are both flexible and convenient financing alternatives to standard personal loans and credit cards. However, they share many similarities and are often thought to be the same product.
In this guide below, we'll explain what they are and how they differ so you can choose the option that is right for you.
What are lines of credit and overdrafts?
A line of credit is a personal loan that gives you access to a specified credit limit. It allows you to withdraw up to and including that limit.
An overdraft account is a special line of credit that's attached to your existing transaction account. You have access to a certain amount of credit that becomes available when you exhaust all the funds in your transaction account.
What are the main differences?
| Line of credit | Overdraft | |
|---|---|---|
| Costs | Interest rates vary, but you will only pay interest on your balance, not your credit limit. Establishment fees may apply. | Overdrafts are unsecured, so variable rates generally apply. You will only pay interest on your outstanding balance, but you can expect monthly or annual fees on the account. An establishment fee may also apply. |
| Loan term | You generally have a choice between an ongoing line of credit, where you can keep the account open as long as it’s in good standing, or one with a fixed term, generally between one and five years. | An overdraft account does not usually have fixed repayment terms. Your account will be ongoing as long as you keep making regular repayments. |
| Availability & access | Eligibility criteria will vary, but lines of credit are generally available to those with good credit who can afford the repayments. Lenders generally provide a debit card that you can use to access your line of credit. | You will need to be an existing account holder or looking to open a transaction account with the bank to open an overdraft. You can then access your overdraft automatically when your transaction account funds have been exhausted. |
How to choose which one is right for you
If you’re wondering which of the two accounts will best meet your needs, you can ask yourself the following questions:
How and when will I need access to the funds?
A line of credit will give you access to funds when you need it, but an overdraft can only be accessed when your own funds have been used up. This is an important point to keep in mind.
Do I need an "emergency" account?
Overdrafts are typically thought of as “safety net” accounts. You'll only be charged interest on your overdraft account balance and will not be charged overdraft fees even if your account goes into the negative.
Compare different line of credit and overdraft products
Picture: Shutterstock
More guides on Finder
-
How many bank accounts do I need?
It's common to have a few different bank accounts that each have a different purpose. Here's how you may benefit from having multiple bank accounts and the traps to avoid.
-
When does your owner occupier loan become an investment loan?
Do you have to tell your lender if you rent out a room and turn your mortgage into an investment loan?
-
What is a SPAC?
Risks and performance indicators to consider before you buy into a SPAC.
-
Financial Fitness Challenge Week 3: How to get the most out of a credit card
How to cut debt and make your credit card work for you.
-
How to invest in the MyDeal IPO
The online retailer is expected to raise $40 million as it launches onto the ASX. Here's what you need to know.
-
How to buy shares in Adore Beauty
Everything you need to know about Australia's biggest IPO of 2020.
-
Planning your retirement? Here are 4 things you need to know about reverse mortgages
SPONSORED: A reverse mortgage could let you use some of your home equity to fund your retirement costs. Here's what you need to know.
-
Credit cards vs buy now pay later
Both buy now pay later plans and credit cards give you ways to pay off purchases over time – here's how they compare.
-
Life insurance for new parents
We talk you through life insurance options for new parents.
-
Connection and disconnection fees explained
Moving house? Here are the charges you need to be aware of when transferring power.
Personal Loan Offers
Important Information*
Ask an Expert
