Secured Promissory Note Template, Free Download 2026

By Jessica Henwick, Editor-in-ChiefLegally reviewed by David Chen, Esq.
Electronic Signature Accepted

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When Do You Need a Secured Promissory Note?

You are lending money and want to secure the loan with collateral such as a vehicle, equipment, inventory, or other personal property that the lender can seize and sell if the borrower fails to repay. A collateralized promissory note (also called a secured note form) significantly reduces the lender's risk compared to an unsecured promissory note.

A borrower is offering property as collateral to obtain a lower interest rate on the loan. Secured loans typically carry lower rates because the collateral reduces the lender's loss exposure, and the note must clearly describe the collateral and reference the accompanying security agreement.

You need to document a loan secured by personal property (not real estate) and want to establish a perfected security interest under UCC Article 9 by filing a UCC-1 financing statement with the appropriate state office.

Your business is obtaining equipment financing or an inventory line of credit, and the lender requires a secured promissory note paired with a security agreement that grants the lender a lien on the specific business assets being financed.

You are lending to a startup or small business that lacks extensive credit history, and you need the additional protection of collateral to justify the loan. The secured note documents both the repayment obligation and the lender's right to the pledged assets upon default.

⚠ Common Pitfall: Filing a UCC-1 financing statement under UCC Article 9 is essential to perfect your security interest. Without perfection, your lien is subordinate to other creditors who properly filed, even if they lent money after you did. In bankruptcy proceedings, an unperfected security interest can be avoided entirely by the trustee under 11 U.S.C. § 544.

What Should a Secured Promissory Note Include?

Maker and Payee Identification

Identify the maker (borrower) and payee (lender) by full legal name and address. If either party is a business entity, include the entity type, state of formation, and the authorized signer's name and title. State the date the note is executed.

Principal Amount and Interest Rate

State the principal amount of the loan in numerals and words. Specify the annual interest rate, whether it is fixed or variable, and the interest calculation method (simple interest, compound interest, or 365/360 day basis). Confirm compliance with state usury laws.

Repayment Terms

Define the repayment structure, including the payment amount, frequency (monthly, quarterly), first and last payment dates, and final maturity date. Specify whether payments are principal-only, interest-only, or fully amortized. Include late payment fees and any grace period.

Collateral Description and Security Interest

Describe the collateral with sufficient specificity to identify it, including serial numbers, VIN numbers, or descriptions for equipment, vehicles, or inventory. Reference the separate security agreement that grants the lender a security interest in the described collateral under UCC Article 9.

UCC-1 Filing and Perfection

Include a provision stating that the lender will file a UCC-1 financing statement to perfect the security interest. Perfection establishes the lender's priority over other creditors who may later claim an interest in the same collateral. The maker should consent to the filing and agree to cooperate with any amendments.

Default, Acceleration, and Remedies

Define events of default, including missed payments, bankruptcy, and loss or disposal of collateral without lender consent. Include an acceleration clause and specify the lender's remedies upon default, including repossession of collateral, sale of collateral, and pursuit of a deficiency judgment for any remaining balance.

Signatures

The maker must sign the promissory note. While promissory notes can typically be signed electronically under the ESIGN Act, many lenders prefer wet ink signatures for the original. Notarization is not required for promissory notes in most states but adds an extra layer of authentication.

Legal Details: Key Clauses in a Secured Promissory Note

Parties and Definitions
1.1

This Secured Promissory Note (the "Note") is executed and delivered as of [____________] (the "Effective Date") by [____________] (the "Maker"), whose principal address is [____________], to and in favor of [____________] (the "Payee"), whose principal address is [____________]. This Note evidences a loan (the "Loan") made by Payee to Maker and is secured by the collateral described in Article V hereof, pursuant to that certain Security Agreement of even date herewith (the "Security Agreement").

1.2

Capitalized terms used but not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to such terms in the Security Agreement. "Obligations" means all indebtedness, liabilities, and obligations of Maker to Payee arising under this Note, the Security Agreement, and any related documents, whether now existing or hereafter arising, direct or indirect, absolute or contingent, and whether for principal, interest, fees, costs, expenses, indemnities, or otherwise.

Principal Amount
2.1

For value received, Maker unconditionally promises to pay to the order of Payee the principal sum of [$__________] (the "Principal Amount"), together with accrued interest thereon, in lawful money of the United States. The Principal Amount represents the aggregate amount advanced by Payee to Maker as of the Effective Date, receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged by Maker.

2.2

All payments under this Note shall be made to Payee by wire transfer, ACH, or certified check at the address or account specified by Payee in writing. Payments received after 2:00 p.m. (local time at Payee's designated location) on any Business Day, or on any day that is not a Business Day, shall be deemed received on the next succeeding Business Day. Each payment shall be applied first to Late Charges and costs, then to accrued interest, and finally to principal.

Interest Rate
3.1

The outstanding Principal Amount shall bear interest at a fixed annual rate of [____]% per annum (the "Contract Rate"), calculated on the basis of a 360-day year and actual days elapsed, from and including the Effective Date to but excluding the date of repayment in full. In the event that the Contract Rate exceeds the maximum rate permitted under applicable usury laws of the State of [____________], the rate shall be reduced to such maximum lawful rate, and any excess interest previously collected shall be credited against the outstanding Principal Amount.

3.2

Upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of Default (as defined in Article VII), the outstanding Principal Amount and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, all other amounts due hereunder shall bear interest at a rate equal to the lesser of (a) the Contract Rate plus [____]% per annum, or (b) the maximum rate permitted by applicable law (the "Default Rate"). Interest at the Default Rate shall accrue from the date of the Event of Default until all Obligations are paid in full.

Payment Terms
4.1

Maker shall repay the Principal Amount and accrued interest in [____] consecutive [monthly/quarterly] installments of [$__________] each, commencing on [____________] and continuing on the [____] day of each successive [month/quarter] thereafter. The final installment shall be due and payable on [____________] (the "Maturity Date"), at which time all remaining principal, accrued interest, and all other amounts due under this Note shall be due and payable in full.

4.2

A late charge of [____]% of the overdue installment amount shall be assessed on any payment not received within [____] calendar days of its due date (the "Late Charge"). Maker acknowledges that the Late Charge constitutes a reasonable estimate of the administrative costs, inconvenience, and expense incurred by Payee as a result of late payment, and does not constitute a penalty. The Late Charge shall be payable immediately upon demand and shall be in addition to, not in lieu of, any Default Rate interest.

4.3

Maker may prepay this Note in whole or in part at any time upon [____] days' prior written notice to Payee, without prepayment premium or penalty. Partial prepayments shall be applied in inverse order of maturity to scheduled principal payments. Accrued interest on the amount prepaid shall be due and payable on the prepayment date. No partial prepayment shall postpone or reduce the amount of any scheduled installment unless Payee otherwise agrees in writing.

Security and Collateral
5.1

This Note is secured by a first-priority security interest in the following property of Maker (collectively, the "Collateral"): [____________], as more particularly described in the Security Agreement executed contemporaneously herewith. Maker hereby grants to Payee a continuing security interest in the Collateral pursuant to Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code as adopted in the State of [____________] (the "UCC") to secure the prompt and complete payment and performance of all Obligations.

5.2

Maker represents and warrants that: (a) Maker is the sole owner of the Collateral, free and clear of all liens, security interests, encumbrances, and claims of any kind, except the security interest granted herein; (b) Maker has full power and authority to grant the security interest in the Collateral; (c) no financing statement, security agreement, or other lien instrument covering all or any part of the Collateral is on file in any public office; and (d) the Collateral is located at [____________] and shall not be removed therefrom without Payee's prior written consent.

Perfection of Security Interest
6.1

Maker hereby authorizes Payee to file one or more UCC financing statements (and any amendments, continuations, or renewals thereof) in any jurisdiction deemed necessary or desirable by Payee to perfect and maintain the perfection of Payee's security interest in the Collateral, without Maker's signature to the extent permitted by applicable law. Maker shall execute and deliver any additional documents, instruments, or agreements as Payee may reasonably request to evidence, perfect, or protect Payee's security interest in the Collateral.

6.2

Maker shall not create, incur, assume, or permit to exist any lien, security interest, or other encumbrance on the Collateral, other than the security interest granted herein and Permitted Liens (as defined in the Security Agreement), without Payee's prior written consent. Maker shall maintain the Collateral in good condition and repair, shall not permit any waste or impairment thereof, and shall maintain adequate insurance coverage on the Collateral as required by the Security Agreement, naming Payee as loss payee or additional insured, as applicable.

Events of Default
7.1

Each of the following shall constitute an "Event of Default" under this Note: (a) failure by Maker to make any payment of principal, interest, or other amount within [____] days of when due; (b) any material breach of any representation, warranty, covenant, or obligation of Maker under this Note or the Security Agreement; (c) the filing of a voluntary or involuntary petition in bankruptcy by or against Maker under Title 11 of the United States Code, or any state insolvency proceeding; (d) the sale, transfer, encumbrance, or disposition of all or any material portion of the Collateral without Payee's prior written consent; (e) any material adverse change in Maker's financial condition that, in Payee's reasonable judgment, impairs Maker's ability to perform the Obligations.

7.2

Upon the occurrence of any Event of Default, Payee shall have, in addition to all other rights and remedies under this Note and the Security Agreement, all rights and remedies of a secured party under the UCC, including the right to take possession of the Collateral, to require Maker to assemble the Collateral at a place designated by Payee, and to sell or otherwise dispose of the Collateral in a commercially reasonable manner pursuant to UCC Section 9-610. Maker shall be liable for any deficiency remaining after the disposition of the Collateral.

Acceleration
8.1

Upon the occurrence of any Event of Default, Payee may, at its sole election, declare all unpaid principal, accrued interest, Late Charges, and all other Obligations immediately due and payable without further notice or demand, except as required by applicable law. Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default described in Section 7.1(c), all Obligations shall be automatically accelerated without any action by Payee. Following acceleration, Payee may proceed to enforce its rights and remedies under this Note, the Security Agreement, and applicable law.

8.2

Payee's exercise of any right or remedy hereunder shall not preclude the simultaneous or later exercise of any other right or remedy. No delay or omission by Payee in exercising any right or remedy shall operate as a waiver thereof. Maker acknowledges that upon acceleration, the entire Obligations shall bear interest at the Default Rate specified in Section 3.2 until paid in full.

Remedies
9.1

The rights and remedies of Payee as provided in this Note, the Security Agreement, and by applicable law, including the UCC, shall be cumulative and concurrent, and may be pursued singly, successively, or together at the sole discretion of Payee. Payee may apply the proceeds of any Collateral disposition in the following order: (a) to the payment of all costs and expenses of retaking, holding, preparing for sale, selling, and disposing of the Collateral, including reasonable attorneys' fees; (b) to accrued and unpaid interest and Late Charges; (c) to the outstanding Principal Amount; and (d) to any other Obligations. Any surplus shall be returned to Maker.

9.2

Maker hereby waives presentment, demand, notice of dishonor, protest, and all other notices in connection with this Note, to the fullest extent permitted by the UCC and other applicable law. Maker agrees to pay all costs of collection, including reasonable attorneys' fees, whether or not suit is instituted, and all costs of any action or proceeding to enforce this Note or the Security Agreement, including fees incurred on appeal or in any bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding.

Governing Law
10.1

This Note shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of [____________], including the UCC as adopted in such State, without giving effect to conflict of laws principles. Maker consents to the exclusive jurisdiction of the state and federal courts sitting in [____________] County, [____________], and waives any objection based on venue, inconvenient forum, or lack of personal jurisdiction in any such action or proceeding.

10.2

If any provision of this Note is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, such provision shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it valid and enforceable, and the validity, legality, and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not be affected or impaired thereby. This Note constitutes the entire agreement between Maker and Payee with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior negotiations, representations, and agreements relating thereto.

Signature Requirements

Electronic Signature Accepted

Secured promissory notes are valid with electronic signatures under the ESIGN Act. The borrower must sign the note, and the lender typically signs as well. Notarization is optional but may be required for notes secured by real property.

Related Contracts & Agreements Templates

A secured promissory note is often used alongside other contracts & agreements documents. Depending on your situation, you may also need:

How to Fill Out a Secured Promissory Note

1

Enter Party Information

Fill in the full legal name and address of the maker (borrower) and payee (lender). If a business entity is involved, include the entity name, type, and state of formation.

2

Set the Loan Terms

Enter the principal amount, annual interest rate, and repayment schedule. Choose between installment payments, balloon payment, or demand structure. Calculate the monthly payment amount and confirm the maturity date.

3

Describe the Collateral

Provide a detailed description of the collateral securing the note. For vehicles, include the year, make, model, and VIN. For equipment, include manufacturer, model number, and serial number. For inventory or accounts receivable, describe the category and location.

4

Prepare the Security Agreement

Complete the companion security agreement that formally grants the lender a security interest in the collateral. The promissory note and security agreement work together but are separate documents. Both must be signed.

5

Set Default Provisions

Review and customize the default events, cure period, and lender remedies. Decide whether the lender must provide written notice before accelerating the loan and how many days the borrower has to cure a payment default (typically 10 to 15 days).

6

Sign and File UCC-1

Print the secured promissory note template download, then the maker signs the promissory note and security agreement. The lender should then file a UCC-1 financing statement with the secretary of state (or equivalent office) in the state where the debtor is located to perfect the security interest and establish priority.

Free Template vs Custom Secured Promissory Note

FeatureFree TemplateCustom (AI or Attorney)
Basic secured note structure
Collateral description section
State-specific usury complianceRate limits vary by state-
UCC-1 filing guidance and references-
Attorney review and customization-
Printable secured promissory note template download (PDF/Word)

Key Facts About Secured Promissory Note Documents

Secured promissory note is backed by collateral that lender can seize upon default.

UCC-1 financing statement must be filed to perfect security interest in personal property.

UCC Article 9 governs creation and enforcement of security interests in personal property.

Perfection of security interest establishes lender priority over other creditors.

Secured promissory note differs from mortgage because mortgage specifically pledges real property.

Key Legal Terms in a Secured Promissory Note

secured promissory notecollateralUCC Article 9security agreementUCC-1 financing statementperfectionpriorityforeclosurerepossessiondefault

When a Free Template Is Not Enough

Free templates cover standard situations, but a professionally drafted secured promissory note accounts for state-specific requirements, unusual circumstances, and enforceability considerations that generic forms miss. If your situation involves significant assets, complex terms, or potential disputes, request an attorney-drafted secured promissory note with a custom quote based on your situation.

Secured Promissory Note Template FAQ

What is a secured promissory note?
A secured promissory note (also called a collateralized promissory note) is a written promise to repay a debt that is backed by collateral. The borrower (maker) pledges specific property, such as a vehicle, equipment, or inventory, as security for the loan. If the borrower fails to repay, the lender (payee) has the legal right to seize and sell the collateral to recover the outstanding balance. The security interest is created through a separate security agreement and perfected by filing a UCC-1 financing statement with the state.
What is the difference between secured and unsecured promissory note?
A secured promissory note template is backed by collateral that the lender can seize if the borrower defaults, while an unsecured promissory note relies solely on the borrower's promise to repay with no collateral attached. Secured notes typically carry lower interest rates because the lender's risk is reduced by the collateral. In a default, the secured lender can repossess and sell the collateral, while an unsecured lender must file a lawsuit, obtain a judgment, and then pursue collection through wage garnishment or bank levies.
What can be used as collateral for a promissory note?
Almost any asset of value can serve as collateral for a promissory note. Common types include vehicles, equipment, machinery, inventory, accounts receivable, investment accounts, and intellectual property. Real property (land and buildings) can also serve as collateral, but that arrangement is typically documented through a mortgage template or deed of trust template rather than a UCC security agreement. The collateral must be described with enough specificity in the security agreement to be identifiable.
Does a secured note need to be filed?
The secured note itself does not need to be filed. However, the lender must file a UCC-1 financing statement with the appropriate state office (typically the secretary of state) to perfect the security interest in the collateral. Perfection is critical because it establishes the lender's priority over other creditors who may later claim an interest in the same collateral. Without filing, the lender has an unperfected security interest that is subordinate to perfected creditors and a bankruptcy trustee.
What is a UCC filing?
A UCC filing, specifically a UCC-1 financing statement, is a public notice filed with the secretary of state that alerts other creditors and the public that a lender claims a security interest in specific collateral belonging to a debtor. The filing is governed by UCC Article 9 and is the primary method for perfecting a security interest in personal property. UCC filings are indexed by debtor name and can be searched by anyone. They are typically effective for five years and must be renewed by filing a continuation statement before expiration.
What happens if you default on a secured note?
When a borrower defaults on a secured note, the lender can accelerate the loan and demand full payment of the remaining balance. If the borrower cannot pay, the lender can repossess the collateral and sell it to satisfy the debt. Under UCC Article 9, the lender must conduct the sale in a commercially reasonable manner and provide the borrower with notice. If the sale proceeds are less than the outstanding balance, the lender can pursue a deficiency judgment against the borrower for the difference.
Is a secured promissory note the same as a mortgage?
No, a secured promissory note and a mortgage are different documents that serve different purposes. A promissory note is the borrower's promise to repay the loan. A mortgage (or deed of trust) is the security instrument that pledges real property as collateral and is recorded in the county land records. In a typical home purchase, the buyer signs both a promissory note and a mortgage. A secured promissory note backed by personal property (not real estate) uses a UCC security agreement instead of a mortgage.
Do promissory notes need to be notarized?
Promissory notes generally do not need to be notarized to be legally enforceable. The maker's signature is sufficient to create a binding obligation. However, notarization adds an extra layer of authentication by having a notary public verify the maker's identity and witness the signature. Some lenders request notarization as a precaution against future claims that the signature was forged. If the note is accompanied by a security agreement involving real property, the security instrument (mortgage or deed of trust) does need to be notarized for recording.

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