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How to appeal a business borrowing decision

How to appeal a business lending decision

Can I appeal a borrowing decision?

  • You can appeal if your borrowing request has been declined.
  • You can appeal if your borrowing request has been approved, but you feel there are conditions that have been unfairly applied. These may include conditions relating to security requirements, covenants, loan duration, product type, pre-conditions and repayment schedules.

You have 30 calendar days to appeal from the date of the decision being communicated to you.  

Who will review my appeal?

All appeals will be reviewed by our independent appeals team who will reassess your borrowing application. 

  • The independent appeals team is not involved in the original borrowing application process.
  • They undertake an impartial review of the information you provided and how the bank reached its decision.
  • And they may contact you to clarify any queries, or for any additional information required.

What criteria do I need to meet to appeal?

If you meet all of the criteria detailed below you can appeal:

  • You have made a request to the Royal Bank of Scotland for borrowing.
  • You or your business are not subject to formal demand, enforcement or legal proceedings.
  • Your annual business turnover is up to £25m.
  • The appeal does not relate to the costs of borrowing, agreed fees or standard terms applied by the Bank to the Borrowing Agreement. These are excluded from the right of appeal.

How do I make an appeal?

To start the appeal process, please use this form.

Further information

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Better Business Finance website
Appeals Process Factsheet on the Better Business Finance website

Customers with hearing and speech impairments can contact us using our Relay UK Service: 18001 0345 366 5592.

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For more information visit the accessibility page.

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