Search ILRG

Find legal forms, law schools, and legal resources

Forms
Profession
Academics
Research
About

Create Promissory Notes & Loan Agreements

State-specific, attorney-reviewed lending forms for personal and business loans. Create a promissory note in minutes and download instantly in Word or PDF.

Choose the Right Lending Document

Select the document type that matches your lending situation

📝

Promissory Notes

Set up a standard loan with predictable payments. Formal loan agreements with structured payment schedules. The standard choice for most lending situations.

State-specific promissory note forms for all 50 states

4 forms available

Demand Notes

Create a flexible loan payable on demand. Loans payable when the lender requests payment—no fixed repayment schedule. Flexible option for short-term or informal lending.

2 forms available

🔒

Security & Collateral

Secure your loan with collateral or a guarantor. Protect your loan with collateral and third-party guarantees. Essential for larger loans or higher-risk borrowers.

3 forms available

⚠️

Default & Collection

Handle missed payments and loan default. Documents for when payments are missed or loan terms are violated. Protect your rights as a lender.

2 forms available

🎯 Not Sure Which Loan Form to Use? Compare Your Options

📊 "I want predictable monthly payments"

Fixed equal payments over time. The borrower pays principal + interest in regular installments.

  • Use for most personal or business loans over 6–12+ months
  • Best when you want predictable monthly payments
  • Ideal for formal loans between family, friends, or businesses
  • Includes an amortization schedule

Recommended forms:

Promissory Installment Note 50 States Consumer Loan Agreement

🎈 "I need lower payments now, larger later"

Smaller periodic payments with one large "balloon" payment at the end.

  • Real estate transactions or investment loans
  • When refinancing is planned before final payment
  • Lower initial payments needed
  • Shorter loan terms (1-5 years typical)

Recommended forms:

Balloon Installment Note 50 States Balloon Note

"I want flexibility, no fixed schedule"

No fixed payment schedule. Lender can demand full repayment at any time with notice.

  • Short-term or bridge loans
  • Family/friend lending with flexible terms
  • Ongoing credit lines or revolving loans
  • When repayment timing is uncertain

Recommended forms:

Demand Note Demand Promissory Note

Frequently Asked Questions

For most personal loans between family or friends, a promissory note with fixed monthly payments is the best option. Our Promissory Installment Note (with Excel Calculator) is a state-specific promissory note form that lets you set the loan amount, interest rate, and payment schedule. If you prefer a more flexible arrangement without fixed due dates, consider a Demand Note or Demand Promissory Note instead.

For most business loans, use a formal installment promissory note or loan agreement. Start with our state-specific Promissory Installment Note and, if you're securing the loan with collateral or a guarantor, pair it with a Security Agreement, Pledge of Shares of Stock, or Guaranty. For more complex commercial transactions, you may want to consult an attorney and use our Consumer Loan Agreement with its detailed terms and conditions.

No. Each state has its own laws on interest rates, disclosures, and enforcement of promissory notes and loan agreements. Our Promissory Installment Note and Promissory Installment Note (Balloon Payment) are state-specific forms that adapt to your selected state's requirements. For other forms, review your state's laws or consult an attorney for high-value loans.

If a borrower misses payments, you should first send a written Notice of Default in Payment to document the missed payments and give them a chance to cure the default. This letter is often required before you can sue or enforce your rights under the promissory note or secured loan agreement. If the borrower still doesn't pay, you may pursue collection in small claims or civil court. Having a signed promissory note and any Security Agreement or Guaranty will significantly strengthen your case.

To create a secured loan, you typically use a promissory note together with a separate security document. For example, you might pair a Promissory Installment Note with a Security Agreement for personal property or a Pledge of Shares of Stock for pledged shares. If you want a third party to back the loan, use our Guaranty so the guarantor is legally responsible if the borrower doesn't pay.

For most personal and small business loans, a properly drafted online promissory note form is sufficient—no lawyer required. Our forms are attorney-reviewed and designed to be legally enforceable in all 50 states. However, for very large loans, complex business arrangements, or if you're unsure about any aspect of the transaction, consulting with an attorney is always a good idea. Our forms include signature and notary blocks where appropriate, so you can execute the document correctly.

A promissory note is a simpler document where the borrower promises to repay—it's a one-way promise. A loan agreement (like our Consumer Loan Agreement) is a more comprehensive contract signed by both parties that includes detailed terms, conditions, representations, and warranties. For most personal and small business loans, a promissory note is sufficient. Loan agreements are typically used for larger, more complex commercial transactions.