What can your business afford each month?
Turnover is not the same as cash available for a car. Set business expenses, tax reserves, existing repayments and personal drawings against your income. Check when customers actually pay too.
Then allow for both the finance payment and running the vehicle. Include insurance, maintenance, tax, parking and fuel or charging. With variable income, check whether you can still meet these costs in a quieter month.
A larger down payment reduces the amount financed. Do not accidentally use the cash reserve you need for a tax bill or a late-paying customer.
What information might the lender need?
The lender needs to assess how you will meet the monthly obligation. Depending on your circumstances, it may ask for recent business results, business bank transactions and existing finance commitments. Current assignments can provide context where your income comes from contracts.
We explain what is needed for your application. You do not have to send all your financial documents with a first message. A vehicle link and a short description of your business are enough to start.
Match the finance to your work
The vehicle: choose space and features you will use. For tools or materials, see the checks on our commercial vehicle page.
The term: match it to expected use and your plans. A longer term may lower the monthly payment but keeps the finance commitment in place for longer.
The final payment: this remains payable at the end. An expected trade-in value is not guaranteed. Consider how you would cover the balance if the car sells for less.
Recently started or missing full annual accounts?
For a new business, distinguish activity you can already demonstrate from expectations. Read how to prepare with our financial lease guidance for start-ups.
If your business has been running for longer but full annual accounts are unavailable, other current information may sometimes be used. This does not remove the financial assessment. See applying without full annual accounts.
Questions from self-employed professionals
Can I use the car privately as well?
Discuss the tax consequences first. Business finance does not make private use tax-free. A taxable benefit for private use and a VAT adjustment may apply. Ask your accountant to assess your situation under Dutch rules.
Is Chamber of Commerce registration enough for approval?
No. It shows that your business is registered, not whether the finance is suitable. The lender assesses the full application and may request additional information.
Can I start without choosing a car?
Yes. Tell us what the car needs to do and what you can set aside for the full cost of using it. We help make those starting points concrete.
Tell us about your business
Share a vehicle link or your requirements, how long you have been trading and your monthly budget. We can then discuss the next step.