Van Finance Rates

Van Finance Rates for Self-Employed and Sole Traders

Van finance rates for self-employed, sole traders and tradespeople. Independent broker. No obligation.

Self-employed and sole trader van finance rates are typically slightly higher than limited company rates because income evidence is less standardised. SA302s and bank statements are accepted by specialist lenders, but fewer lenders participate than in the limited company market.

Typical rate bands for self-employed applicants

Trading HistoryUsed Van HP (typical range)New Van HP (typical range)Key Evidence
2+ years, clean credit9.9% – 12.9% APR8.9% – 11.9% APR2x SA302, 3 months bank statements
1–2 years, clean credit12.9% – 16.9% APR11.9% – 15.9% APR1x SA302, 6 months bank statements
Under 1 year16.9% – 22.9% APR15.9% – 21.9% APRBank statements, business plan, ID
Adverse credit, 2+ years17.9% – 24.9% APR16.9% – 23.9% APR2x SA302, specialist lenders only

What documents improve your rate as self-employed?

The more evidence you can provide of stable, recurring income, the better the rate you'll receive. Two years of SA302s is the most important document - this is HMRC's summary of your self-assessment return and is the standard income proof for self-employed lenders.

Three to six months of business bank statements showing consistent income and responsible financial management also strengthen your application significantly. If you've recently started using business invoicing software (Xero, QuickBooks, FreeAgent), printouts showing regular invoicing can support your case.

Why an independent broker helps self-employed buyers

Most high-street lenders decline self-employed van finance applications because they can't fit them into their standard assessment templates. An independent broker knows which specialist lenders have genuine appetite for self-employed cases and can present your application with the supporting context those lenders need. We're not restricted to one lender's criteria.

Finance subject to status and credit assessment. Rates shown are indicative only and subject to change. Independent financial advice should be sought where appropriate.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is a typical van finance rate for a sole trader?

A sole trader with 2+ years of SA302s and clean credit can typically expect 9.9%–12.9% APR on a used van. Shorter trading history or adverse credit will increase this.

Do I pay more for van finance if I'm self-employed compared to a limited company?

Often slightly more, yes - because income evidence is less standardised and fewer mainstream lenders participate. However, we work with lenders who specialise in self-employed applications and can often match limited company rates for well-established sole traders.

Doulton Money Limited t/a Doulton Bridging Finance. FCA No. 814533. Company No. 14303203. 20 Wenlock Road, London N1 7GU. Commercial vehicle finance is not regulated by the FCA. Finance subject to status and credit assessment.

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0204 6211776

What happens next

  1. Fill in the form. It takes about 2 minutes.
  2. We'll email you back with any additional questions, then match you with the right specialist for your situation.
  3. A specialist independent broker will contact you to discuss your situation and present options.