Key highlights
- No fixed deposit rule; depends on lender and profile
- Eligible applicants may finance the full amount
- A deposit can widen lenders and lower repayments
- One broker, 80+ lenders compared for your deposit
- Soft-check quote to start; no credit-score impact
How much deposit you need for a bus depends on the lender and your profile, not a fixed rule. Some eligible applicants can finance the full amount, while a deposit can unlock better options for others.
Do you always need a deposit?
Not necessarily. For applicants with strong credit and established trading, some lenders may consider no-deposit or fully financed arrangements. Others, particularly for newer businesses, older buses or impaired credit, will look for a deposit to reduce their exposure. It all comes down to lender criteria.
Why put a deposit on a bus?
Even when it isn't required, putting money down can widen the lenders willing to consider you, reduce the amount financed, and lower your repayments. It can also help offset a shorter ABN history or a past credit issue. Consider the cash-flow trade-off with your accountant.
How much deposit should you put down?
The ideal deposit balances keeping cash in the business against securing good terms. Simon Kendrick compares 80+ funders and can show you how different deposit levels affect your options for the bus you want.
Not sure what deposit you'll need? Get an obligation-free quote from Overdrive, a soft check that won't affect your credit score.
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Free quote in minutes, decisions in 24–48 hours. No credit-score impact to enquire.