Alex Denne
Growth @ Genie AI | Introduction to Contracts @ UCL Faculty of Laws | Serial Founder

Create Your Own Demand Promissory Note

23 Mar 2023
32 min
Text Link

Note: Want to skip the guide and go straight to the free templates? No problem - scroll to the bottom.
Also note: This is not legal advice.

Introduction

Creating a demand promissory note is an essential task for any business or individual entering into a loan agreement. It is a legally binding document that outlines the terms of the agreement between the lender and the borrower, specifying details such as the loan amount, interest rate, repayment date and more. As such, it helps to protect investments from being taken advantage of by lenders, providing grounds for enforcement should they fail to meet their obligations. For legal professionals too, it allows for swift and effective enforcement of repayment in the event that something goes wrong.

In order to create an effective demand promissory note, it is vital to include all relevant information related to the loan - including all payment dates and amounts - as well as ensuring that both parties sign off on it. Additionally, registering this document with appropriate government agencies will help ensure its legality and enforceability in court should it become necessary.

Fortunately there are now easy ways to get started creating your own demand promissory note with minimal effort or expertise needed. Genie AI offer free templates through their community template library that provide market-standard models which anyone can draft and customize into high quality legal documents without engaging a lawyer. Accessible online today through their website or app store platform, Genie’s AI dataset provides millions of datapoints about what makes up these documents so you don’t have to worry about forgetting something important when creating your own Demand Promissory Note! So why not take advantage of this powerful tool today? Read on below for our step-by-step guidance on how best to use Genie’s AI community template library - no account required!

Definitions (feel free to skip)

Creditor: A person or entity who lends money or provides a loan to another.
Debtor: A person or entity who receives a loan from another.
Contract Law: The branch of law that deals with the formation, performance, and enforcement of contracts.
Default Terms: The terms and conditions which outline the consequences of failing to make payments on a loan.
Repossession: The act of taking back something (such as property) that was previously given or loaned.

Contents

  • Define a demand promissory note and its purpose
  • Outline the legal terms and conditions of a demand promissory note
  • Identify the parties involved in a demand promissory note
  • Creditor (lender)
  • Debtor (borrower)
  • List the information required for a demand promissory note
  • Name and address of creditor and debtor
  • Date of the agreement
  • Amount of money borrowed
  • Interest rate
  • Repayment terms
  • Default terms
  • Signatures of both parties
  • Explain the process of creating a demand promissory note
  • Detail the consequences of not meeting the terms of a demand promissory note
  • Provide tips for writing a demand promissory note
  • Ensure all terms and conditions are clearly stated
  • Use clear and concise language
  • Include all necessary information
  • Use a template for guidance
  • Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using a demand promissory note
  • Advantages
  • Increased security for the lender
  • Easier to enforce than a verbal agreement
  • Creditor can demand repayment on short notice
  • Disadvantages
  • Can be difficult to negotiate the details
  • Requires the debtor to have sufficient funds to cover the amount borrowed
  • Interest rate may be too high for the debtor
  • Describe the steps to take after writing a demand promissory note
  • Have each party sign and date the agreement
  • Record and store the agreement
  • Make sure both parties understand the agreement
  • Notify the creditor of any changes to repayment terms
  • Monitor the progress of the agreement in accordance with the repayment terms

Get started

Define a demand promissory note and its purpose

  • Understand what a demand promissory note is and its purpose: A demand promissory note is a written and signed document that serves as a promise to pay a certain amount of money by a certain date. Its purpose is to secure a loan agreement between two parties.
  • Research and review the laws and regulations associated with demand promissory notes: Understand the legal requirements for a demand promissory note to be valid and enforceable.
  • Learn about other important aspects of a demand promissory note: Understand the effects of defaulting on a demand promissory note, what happens if it is not paid within the specified timeframe, and how to negotiate terms if needed.

When you can check this off your list and move on to the next step: When you have a thorough understanding of the definition, purpose, and other important aspects of a demand promissory note.

Outline the legal terms and conditions of a demand promissory note

  • Establish the date and term of the demand promissory note
  • Identify the parties involved and the amount of money involved in the agreement
  • Specify the interest rate of the note and the due date of the payment
  • Include the promise of payment and the consequences of defaulting on the note
  • Outline the rights of the lender and the borrower in the event of a default
  • Include a clause stating the governing law and jurisdiction
  • State the consequences of any breach of the agreement
  • Sign and date the promissory note

How you’ll know when you can check this off your list and move on to the next step: Once all the legal terms and conditions are outlined and the promissory note is signed and dated, you can move on to the next step.

Identify the parties involved in a demand promissory note

  • Identify and document the name, address, and contact information for both the creditor (lender) and the debtor (borrower)
  • Make sure to have all details about the creditor and the debtor correct and up to date
  • Confirm that both parties are in agreement with the promissory note and that all parties have signed the document
  • Once all parties have been identified and have signed the document, you can move on to the next step.

Creditor (lender)

  • Identify who is lending money and make sure that it is a legal entity
  • Obtain the name, address, and contact information of the lender
  • Make sure the lender has the legal authority to lend money and enforce the promissory note
  • Once you have identified the lender, you are ready to move onto the next step: identifying the debtor (borrower)

When you have identified the lender and obtained their contact information, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step.

Debtor (borrower)

  • Gather the name of the borrower, the borrower’s address, and their signature
  • Include the date of the promissory note
  • Include the amount of money being borrowed
  • Specify the interest rate and repayment terms
  • Once the above information is gathered and included in the promissory note, you can move on to the next step.

List the information required for a demand promissory note

  • The date of the note
  • The name of the debtor (borrower)
  • The name of the creditor (lender)
  • The amount of money that the debtor owes the creditor
  • The terms of repayment (how much and when)
  • Any security or collateral that has been pledged
  • A demand clause that states the creditor has the right to demand payment from the debtor on any day
  • The signature of both the creditor and the debtor

You will know when you can check this off your list and move on to the next step when you have all of the required information listed above.

Name and address of creditor and debtor

  • Gather the name and address of both the creditor and the debtor
  • Make sure all information is accurate and up-to-date
  • Double-check all information for accuracy
  • Once you have all the required information, you can move on to the next step - setting the date of the agreement.

Date of the agreement

  • Decide on the date the Demand Promissory Note should be effective.
  • Write the date in numerical format (i.e. Day/Month/Year) on the Demand Promissory Note.
  • Make sure both parties agree on the date of the agreement.
  • When you have both parties agreement on the date, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.

Amount of money borrowed

  • Determine the amount of money you want to borrow from the other party, taking into consideration the interest rate and the repayment schedule.
  • Record the amount in the “Amount of Money Borrowed” field on the promissory note.
  • Once the amount is recorded, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step of determining the interest rate.

Interest rate

  • Decide on the interest rate for the loan. This will be the percentage rate you will use to calculate interest payments on the loan.
  • Make sure that the interest rate is compliant with local and national laws.
  • Record the interest rate on the promissory note.
  • Once you have decided on and recorded the interest rate, you can move on to the next step.

Repayment terms

  • Specify the repayment terms in the promissory note, including when and how the borrower must repay the loan (i.e. monthly payments, one lump sum, etc.)
  • Include the date the first payment is due and the amount to be paid
  • State whether or not the loan will be secured (i.e. with collateral)
  • Outline any extra fees or penalties associated with late payments
  • Decide if any prepayment or early repayment penalties apply
  • Check that all repayment terms are clearly stated in the promissory note
  • When all repayment terms are specified, you can check off this step and move on to the next step.

Default terms

  • Go over the default terms with the other party.
  • Make sure both parties are in agreement with all of the terms.
  • Discuss any changes that are needed and make them if required.
  • Once all parties are in agreement with the terms, the step is complete and you can move on to the next step.

Signatures of both parties

  • Both parties should sign the document in the presence of a witness
  • The witness should also sign the document
  • Make sure to include the date and the full names of both parties
  • Check to make sure that all signatures are included and that all text is legible
  • Once everything is signed and dated, this step is complete and you can move onto the next step.

Explain the process of creating a demand promissory note

  • Gather the necessary information from both parties involved, including the lender and the borrower.
  • Establish the terms of the loan, including the amount, the repayment timeline, and any other relevant details.
  • Draft a demand promissory note with all of the information included.
  • Have both parties sign the promissory note.
  • Review the document to ensure it is complete and accurate.

Once the document is drafted, signed, and reviewed, you can check off this step and move onto the next step in the guide.

Detail the consequences of not meeting the terms of a demand promissory note

  • Explain that a demand promissory note is a legally binding document and failure to meet the terms of the note can result in legal action.
  • Outline the potential consequences of not meeting the terms of the demand promissory note, such as late fees, collection agency fees, and other costs associated with legal action.
  • Explain that the creditor may have the right to seize assets or property as part of the repayment of the debt.

Once you have outlined the potential consequences of not meeting the terms of a demand promissory note, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step.

Provide tips for writing a demand promissory note

  • Outline the amount of money being borrowed, the interest rate, payment terms, and due date.
  • Include the names of both the lender and the borrower.
  • Make sure the promissory note is signed and dated by both parties.
  • Clearly state the consequences of not meeting the terms of the promissory note.
  • Ensure that all terms and conditions are clearly stated and understood.
  • Have the promissory note notarized if necessary.
  • Keep a copy of the promissory note for both parties.

Once you have outlined all of the necessary information and both parties have signed the promissory note, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.

Ensure all terms and conditions are clearly stated

  • Draft the terms and conditions of the promissory note including payment due date, interest rate, and late fees
  • Clearly list the obligations of both the lender and the borrower
  • Include any additional conditions that may apply
  • Review the document to make sure it meets all legal requirements
  • Have both parties sign the promissory note
  • When both parties have signed the promissory note, you can move on to the next step.

Use clear and concise language

  • Make sure you are using language that is precise and easy to understand
  • Avoid long and complex phrases or sentences
  • Make sure the meaning of the document is clear to all parties involved
  • Check the document for any ambiguities or areas that need clarification
  • Once you are confident that the language used is clear and concise, you can proceed to the next step.

Include all necessary information

  • Begin by gathering the information you will need to include in the promissory note, such as the amount of money being borrowed, the repayment terms, the interest rate, and the due date
  • Make sure to include the full legal names of both parties involved, as well as their addresses
  • Ensure that you include a clear and accurate description of the collateral that is being used to secure the loan, if any
  • Make sure to include a space for both parties to sign and date the document once it has been completed
  • You will know that you have included all necessary information when you have a comprehensive document that includes all of the components listed above

Use a template for guidance

  • Gather the necessary documents and information needed to complete a demand promissory note.
  • Search online for templates of a demand promissory note.
  • Download a template or create your own template based on your needs.
  • Fill out the template with the required information.
  • Make sure to include the parties involved, the amount to be paid, the due date, and any other relevant information.
  • Review the document for accuracy and completeness.
  • When the document is complete, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using a demand promissory note

  • Research the advantages and disadvantages of using a demand promissory note
  • Understand the legal requirements and implications associated with a demand promissory note
  • Consider the potential consequences of not paying back the debt on time
  • Make a list of the advantages and disadvantages and review with a legal professional prior to using a demand promissory note
  • Once you have discussed the advantages and disadvantages of using a demand promissory note with a legal professional, you can move on to the next step.

Advantages

  • Understand the advantages of a demand promissory note for both the lender and the borrower
  • A demand promissory note offers greater security for the lender, as repayment can be demanded immediately
  • A demand promissory note also simplifies the repayment process for the borrower, as multiple payments are not necessary
  • Additionally, a demand promissory note also offers more flexibility for the lender, as they can negotiate the terms of repayment
  • Once you have a thorough understanding of the advantages of a demand promissory note, you can move on to the next step.

Increased security for the lender

  • Draft a written promissory note detailing the loan amount, interest rate, repayment schedule, and any additional repayment terms.
  • Include a description of the collateral, if applicable, and include a clause that allows the lender to seize the collateral in the event of non-payment.
  • Include a clause that allows the lender to take legal action in the event of non-payment.
  • Have both parties sign and date the promissory note.

You will know you have completed this step when you have a written promissory note signed and dated by both parties.

Easier to enforce than a verbal agreement

  • Draft the promissory note using a legal form to ensure that all of the necessary elements are included.
  • Make sure that the promissory note includes a clause stating that the agreement is binding and enforceable in court.
  • Have both parties sign the promissory note and make sure to keep a copy for your records.

When this step is completed, you will have created a legally binding promissory note that is easier to enforce than a verbal agreement.

Creditor can demand repayment on short notice

  • Determine the repayment terms and specify that the promissory note is due on demand
  • Include a clause that the promissory note is payable on demand without any notice of demand
  • Specify that the debtor must repay the entire amount of the promissory note to the creditor when the demand is made
  • When you have included the repayment terms you can check off this step as complete and move on to the next step.

Disadvantages

  • Understand the potential implications of using a demand promissory note, as it can be difficult to negotiate the details
  • Consider all of the potential risks and benefits of using a demand promissory note
  • Make sure to read the fine print of any contract and understand the terms and conditions
  • Gather all of the necessary documents and information before attempting to negotiate
  • Have a lawyer or other legal representative review the document before signing
  • Understand the possible remedies available if the terms of the note are not adhered to
  • When you are comfortable with the terms, you can check off this step and move on to the next one.

Can be difficult to negotiate the details

  • Research the laws in your jurisdiction regarding promissory notes and the interest rate you can charge
  • Draft a demand promissory note that includes the amount of the loan, the loan term, the interest rate, and the repayment plan
  • Negotiate with the borrower on the terms of the promissory note
  • Make sure both parties agree on the terms and that they are legally enforceable
  • When you have reached a mutually agreed upon terms, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.

Requires the debtor to have sufficient funds to cover the amount borrowed

  • Determine the amount of money the debtor needs to borrow
  • Calculate the total amount of money the debtor needs to have in order to cover the borrowed amount
  • Discuss the repayment terms with the debtor and make sure they are aware of the amount they need to have available
  • Record the total amount on the promissory note
  • You will know that you can check this step off your list when the total amount needed to be borrowed is recorded on the promissory note.

Interest rate may be too high for the debtor

  • Determine the interest rate for the loan by taking into account the current market rate, the creditworthiness of the borrower, and any other relevant factors.
  • If the interest rate is higher than what is allowed by law, the promissory note will not be valid and should be revised.
  • If the interest rate is lower than what is allowed by law, the promissory note will be valid and can proceed to the next step.
  • You will know when you can move on to the next step when you have determined the interest rate is valid and the promissory note can proceed.

Describe the steps to take after writing a demand promissory note

  • Have the debtor and creditor exchange the demand promissory note and ensure both parties have a copy
  • Have each party sign and date the agreement
  • Ensure that both parties have a record of the borrower’s payment history
  • Make sure that the creditor and debtor both understand the terms of the promissory note
  • Establish a repayment plan that works for both parties
  • Keep a copy of the signed promissory note in a safe place
  • Once the promissory note is signed by both parties, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step.

Have each party sign and date the agreement

  • Have each party review and sign the promissory note.
  • The parties should also include their names, addresses, and dates of signing the agreement.
  • You can provide a witness to both parties signing the agreement.
  • Once the agreement is signed, both parties should have a copy of the agreement.
  • When all parties have signed the agreement and both have a copy, you will have completed this step and can move on to the next step.

Record and store the agreement

  • Make a copy of the Demand Promissory Note agreement and store it in a safe place.
  • Include any additional documents that were referenced in the agreement.
  • Make sure all parties have a copy of the agreement and additional documents.
  • Record the date that the agreement was signed and stored.
  • You have completed this step when all parties have a copy of the agreement and additional documents, and the date the agreement was signed and stored is recorded.

Make sure both parties understand the agreement

  • Read through the promissory note thoroughly and make sure both parties are in agreement with the terms and conditions of the document
  • Ask questions if there is anything that needs clarification
  • Make sure both parties agree to the repayment terms, interest rate, and any other details within the document
  • After both parties understand and agree to the promissory note, both should sign and date the document
  • Once both parties have signed and dated the document, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.

Notify the creditor of any changes to repayment terms

  • Contact the creditor and inform them of any changes to the repayment terms outlined in the promissory note.
  • Confirm that the creditor has received and agreed to the updated repayment terms.
  • Make sure to update the agreement and note any changes in writing.
  • When you have received written confirmation from the creditor, you can move on to the next step.

Monitor the progress of the agreement in accordance with the repayment terms

  • Create a spreadsheet or a chart that tracks the progress of the repayment agreement
  • Set up reminders to monitor the progress of the repayment agreement at regular intervals
  • Ensure that all payments are kept up-to-date and that the repayment agreement is adhered to
  • Take note of any discrepancies or changes to the repayment agreement and document them
  • Once all of the payments have been successfully made and the agreement has been fulfilled, mark the task as complete and notify the creditor.

FAQ:

Q: What are the differences between a Demand Promissory Note and a regular Promissory Note?

Asked by Daniel on May 2, 2022.
A: A Demand Promissory Note is a type of Promissory Note that requires the issuer to pay back the loan immediately on demand, without any notice period. With a regular Promissory Note, the issuer will receive notice of when they need to pay back the loan, and there is usually a period of time before that payment is due.

Q: How does a Demand Promissory Note affect my credit score?

Asked by Sarah on June 5, 2022.
A: When creating and issuing a Demand Promissory Note, you must be sure to make all payments on time in order to maintain your credit score. Late payments can have a negative impact on your credit score, since it is a reflection of how reliable you are as a borrower and creditor. You should also keep records of all payments made, as it can help in keeping an accurate record of your credit score.

Q: Should I use Demand Promissory Notes for business purposes?

Asked by Michael on July 8, 2022.
A: Demand Promissory Notes can be an effective way to manage business finances and ensure that payments are being made on time. It is important to consider the terms of each loan before issuing a Demand Promissory Note, as well as any potential tax implications that could arise from using one for business purposes. Additionally, be sure to consult with an accountant or lawyer if you have any questions about how to properly use this type of note for your business.

Q: Do I need to register my Demand Promissory Note with any government organizations?

Asked by Jacob on August 11, 2022.
A: Depending on where you live and the circumstances surrounding your loan agreement, you may need to register your Demand Promissory Note with certain government organizations. In the United States, for example, you may need to register the note with the Secretary of State or other state-level agencies. Additionally, if you are engaging in cross-border transactions with foreign entities or lenders, you may need to register your note with international organizations such as the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL).

Q: Are there any risks associated with using Demand Promissory Notes?

Asked by Matthew on September 14, 2022.
A: As with any type of loan agreement, there are certain risks associated with using Demand Promissory Notes. These risks include potential legal liabilities if the payment terms are not followed, as well as financial losses if the borrower defaults on their obligations under the note. Additionally, there may be tax implications that could affect both parties involved in the transaction; therefore it is important to consult with an accountant or lawyer before signing any agreement involving a Demand Promissory Note.

Q: How does interest work in a Demand Promissory Note?

Asked by Joshua on October 17, 2022.
A: Interest works differently in each type of loan agreement and will depend on the terms outlined in your particular agreement. Generally speaking though, interest can be either fixed or variable for Demand Promissory Notes; fixed interest rates remain constant throughout the life of the loan while variable rates can change depending on market conditions or other factors outlined in the note itself. Additionally, interest accrued under a Demand Promissory Note is typically higher than other types of loans because it involves larger sums of money and shorter repayment periods.

Q: What happens if I cannot repay my Debt under a Demand Promissory Note?

Asked by Ethan on November 20, 2022.
A: Depending on the terms outlined in your particular agreement and local laws where it was issued, failure to repay your loan under a Demand Promissory Note can result in various financial penalties such as late fees or additional interest charges. Additionally, failure to repay could lead to legal action being taken against you by creditors or lenders who issued the note if they decide to pursue collection activities against you for non-payment of debts owed. It is important that you understand all aspects of your agreement before signing so that you know what will happen if you cannot make your payments as scheduled.

Q: Are there alternatives to using Demand Promissory Notes?

Asked by Emily on December 23, 2022.
A: Depending on your needs and financial situation, there may be alternatives available for borrowing money such as traditional bank loans or lines of credit from lenders like banks and credit unions; however these types of agreements typically involve more paperwork and require more stringent qualifications than what is required for issuing a Demand Promissory Note. Additionally, some businesses may find that using trade credit or invoice factoring agreements can provide them with more flexibility when it comes to repayment terms than what is available through traditional loans or lines of credit. It is important to research all options available before making any final decisions regarding your financing needs.

Example dispute

Suing a Company for Breach of a Demand Promissory Note:

  • Plaintiff can file a lawsuit for breach of contract if the defendant has failed to fulfill their obligations under the promissory note, such as making payments as agreed.
  • The plaintiff must prove that the defendant agreed to the terms of the promissory note, that the defendant failed to fulfill their obligations, and that the plaintiff has suffered harm as a result.
  • The plaintiff must also provide evidence that they have taken reasonable steps to resolve the dispute without having to resort to a lawsuit.
  • The court will assess the evidence and decide if there was a breach of the promissory note and if damages should be awarded.
  • Damages might include the amount due under the promissory note plus interest, court costs, and legal fees.

Templates available (free to use)

Demand Promissory Note

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