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Security Agreement Template (Free Download + AI Generator)
Greg Mitchell | Legal consultant at AI Lawyer
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When lenders provide credit, they often want more than a borrower’s promise—they want collateral that secures repayment. A Security Agreement is the legal document that creates this protection. It gives the lender a security interest in specific property, which can be seized or sold if the borrower defaults.
In 2025, security agreements remain central to commercial and personal lending. According to the Federal Reserve, over 70% of small business loans in the U.S. involve collateral as part of the agreement, whether equipment, inventory, or accounts receivable. For both borrowers and lenders, understanding the structure and risks of these agreements is critical.
Download the free Security Agreement or customize one with our AI Generator — then have a local attorney review before you sign.
Table of Contents
What is a Security Agreement?
Why Security Agreements Matter in 2025
Key Components of a Security Agreement
Types of Collateral in Security Agreements
Step-by-Step Guide to Drafting a Security Agreement
Legal Context and UCC Requirements
Security Agreements Around the World
Tips for Borrowers and Lenders Using Security Agreements
Security Agreement Checklist
FAQs
1. What is a Security Agreement?
A Security Agreement is a contract between a lender (secured party) and a borrower (debtor) that grants the lender a security interest in collateral. This collateral can include tangible assets like vehicles and equipment, or intangible assets like accounts receivable and intellectual property.
The agreement ensures that if the borrower defaults, the lender has a legal right to repossess and liquidate the collateral to satisfy the debt.
2. Why Security Agreements Matter in 2025
With lending markets cautious and interest rates fluctuating, collateralized loans are more common than ever. Security agreements provide:
Reduced lender risk: Collateral lowers the chance of loss.
Increased borrower access to credit: Even borrowers with weaker credit profiles may qualify if collateral is pledged.
Lower interest rates: Secured loans often carry more favorable terms than unsecured loans.
Legal protection: Clearly defines rights if disputes arise.
In 2023, the SBA reported that approximately 80% of SBA 7(a) loans required collateral, reinforcing their role in small business financing.
3. Key Components of a Security Agreement
Every effective security agreement should include:
Parties involved: Borrower and lender identification.
Collateral description: Detailed listing of pledged property (specific vs. blanket lien).
Obligations secured: Loan amount, interest, and repayment terms.
Rights and duties: Borrower’s duty to maintain collateral and lender’s enforcement rights.
Default provisions: What constitutes default and lender’s remedies.
Governing law: State jurisdiction and reference to the UCC (Uniform Commercial Code).
Signatures: Both parties sign, and notarization is often recommended.
4. Types of Collateral in Security Agreements
Collateral varies widely, depending on loan purpose:
Tangible assets: Vehicles, machinery, inventory, equipment, or real estate.
Financial assets: Accounts receivable, securities, deposit accounts.
Intellectual property: Patents, trademarks, copyrights.
Blanket liens: Cover all borrower’s assets, common in business loans.
Future assets: Sometimes includes property acquired after signing (after-acquired collateral).
5. Step-by-Step Guide to Drafting a Security Agreement
Step 1 — Identify parties: Borrower and lender by full legal name.
Step 2 — Describe collateral: Be precise—list serial numbers, account numbers, or legal property descriptions.
Step 3 — Outline secured obligations: Include loan principal, interest, fees, and conditions.
Step 4 — Define default: Specify what counts as nonpayment or breach.
Step 5 — Add remedies: Repossession, sale of collateral, or other enforcement rights.
Step 6 — Reference UCC filing: Note that a UCC-1 Financing Statement may be filed to perfect interest.
Step 7 — Sign and notarize: Ensure the agreement is enforceable in court.
6. Legal Context and UCC Requirements
In the U.S., security agreements are governed by Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). To make the lender’s interest enforceable against third parties, they must “perfect” the security interest, usually by filing a UCC-1 Financing Statement with the Secretary of State.
This system makes public record of the lender’s claim, preventing disputes over collateral priority. If the borrower defaults, courts enforce these agreements, provided the lender followed correct filing and notice procedures.
7. Security Agreements Around the World
Security interests exist globally but under different legal frameworks:
Canada: Uses Personal Property Security Acts (PPSA) in each province, similar to UCC filings.
UK: Security interests are created through “fixed charges” and “floating charges.”
Australia: Governed by the Personal Property Securities Act (PPSA), with a national register.
EU countries: Each member has its own secured transactions laws, though many follow UNCITRAL model principles.
These variations mean businesses must adapt agreements for international transactions.
8. Tips for Borrowers and Lenders Using Security Agreements
For borrowers: Only pledge collateral you can afford to risk. Always review if terms extend to future-acquired assets.
For lenders: Ensure collateral valuation is realistic and file proper UCC or PPSA statements.
For both parties: Specify maintenance obligations and insurance requirements for high-value assets.
Negotiate remedies: Avoid overly aggressive default provisions that can harm business continuity.
When drafted fairly, security agreements benefit both sides: borrowers gain access to credit, and lenders reduce risk exposure.
9. Security Agreement Checklist
Borrower and lender details
Collateral description
Obligations secured (loan amount and terms)
Borrower’s duties (maintenance, insurance)
Default triggers
Lender’s remedies
Governing law/UCC reference
Signatures and notarization
UCC-1 filing if required
Download the Full Checklist Here
10. FAQs
Q: What is the difference between a security agreement and a UCC-1 filing?
A: A security agreement creates the lender’s interest in collateral, while a UCC-1 filing “perfects” it by making it public record. Without filing, a lender’s interest may not take priority over other creditors. Both documents work together to protect the lender’s rights in case of borrower default.
Q: Can a borrower sell collateral pledged in a security agreement?
A: Typically, not without lender consent. Most agreements prohibit selling or transferring collateral until the loan is repaid. Some agreements allow normal course of business sales (like inventory), but proceeds must often be directed back to the lender. Violating this clause can trigger default.
Q: Are personal assets at risk in a business security agreement?
A: Only if they are specifically pledged or if the borrower also signed a personal guarantee. Business loans often use company assets, but if collateral is insufficient, lenders may require additional personal guarantees. This distinction is crucial for entrepreneurs protecting personal property.
Q: How long does a security agreement last?
A: It lasts until the loan is fully repaid or otherwise satisfied. Once the borrower pays off the obligation, the lender must file a UCC termination statement, releasing their claim. Failure to terminate can cause title complications for the borrower when selling or refinancing assets.
Q: Can security agreements cover future assets?
A: Yes. Many agreements include an “after-acquired property” clause, giving lenders a claim over assets the borrower obtains later. While common in business loans, these clauses must be carefully reviewed to avoid overly broad lender control. Borrowers should negotiate limits if possible.
Disclaimer
This article provides general information for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Security agreement laws vary by state and country. Always consult a licensed attorney before drafting or signing a security agreement.
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A security agreement transforms a simple loan into a secured transaction, protecting lenders while giving borrowers better access to credit. In 2025, these agreements remain essential tools for financial stability in both business and personal lending.
Download the free Security Agreement or customize one with our AI Generator — then have a local attorney review before you sign.
