The Most Common Misconceptions About Lines of Credit

A line of credit is a standard borrowing option offered by most banks and credit unions in Canada, yet it still carries a surprising amount of confusion. Too many borrowers make assumptions about how it works, which often leads to misuse or missed opportunities.

Used properly, a line of credit or LOC is a flexible and cost-effective way to manage variable expenses or access funds during temporary cash flow gaps. But misinformation, especially around interest charges, repayment terms, and how it affects credit, continues to spread, even among experienced borrowers.

One example of a straightforward, flexible option is an Innovation CU line of credit, which gives you access to funds as needed, with interest charged only on what you actually use, not your full limit. Still, several myths persist, and most of them lead people to hesitate unnecessarily, or worse, misuse the credit they’ve been given. Let’s clear up the most common myths that keep people misinformed about LOC.

Myth 1: Interest Starts Accruing on the Full Limit Immediately

A LOC is not like a traditional loan. With a fixed loan, you receive a lump sum upfront and begin paying interest on the entire balance right away. A LOC works differently. You only pay interest on the amount you’ve withdrawn, not on your approved limit.

If you’re approved for $20,000 but only use $2,000, interest applies solely to that $2,000. Keeping the remaining $18,000 untouched doesn’t cost you anything. This is one of the main advantages, especially for people who want access to emergency funds but don’t want to take on new debt unless necessary.

Myth 2: Making Minimum Payments is Enough

Most lenders require a minimum monthly payment, often interest-only. Paying just that keeps your account in good standing, but it won’t reduce the principal. If you want to get out of debt, you’ll need to pay more than the interest amount.

Interest-only payments are a short-term solution. Relying on them long-term can trap you in a cycle of persistent debt, especially with higher balances. Always check your statement for the “total amount owing” and make a plan to reduce the principal over time.

Myth 3: LOCs Work Like Credit Cards

There’s some overlap in how these two work: both offer revolving credit, and both charge interest based on usage. But LOC typically come with much lower interest rates than credit cards, particularly when unsecured. Secured lines, such as those backed by home equity, come with even lower rates.

Unlike most cards, LOCs don’t come with cashback, rewards points, or purchase protection. The focus here is utility, not perks. Trying to use a LOC for frequent consumer purchases—like you would with a credit card — misses the point. It’s better suited for irregular, planned expenses like home repairs, tuition, or covering seasonal income gaps.

Myth 4: It Hurts Your Credit Score Automatically

Using a LOC responsibly can actually help your credit profile. A high limit with a low balance improves your credit utilization ratio — a key factor in your score. The same goes for making consistent, on-time payments.

Problems arise when people max out their credit lines or miss payments. Late payments get reported to credit bureaus. Using most or all of your available limit regularly can also suggest financial instability. But if managed well, a LOC won’t damage your score; it can strengthen it.

Myth 5: All LOCs Are the Same

There are two broad types: secured and unsecured. A secured LOC (like a home equity line) is backed by collateral. That usually translates into lower interest rates and higher borrowing limits. An unsecured LOC has no collateral requirement but often comes with stricter approval criteria and higher rates.

There’s also a major difference in how business and personal LOCs are structured. Business lines can come with different draw periods, repayment terms, and conditions tied to business performance. Make sure you’re applying for the type that fits your needs.

Myth 6: It’s Only Useful in Emergencies

Some people think a LOC should sit untouched until something goes wrong. That’s one way to use it—but not the only way. Many borrowers use a LOC to bridge temporary cash gaps without having to liquidate savings or investments.

It can also be used strategically. For example, covering tuition when student loans haven’t come through yet, or paying for equipment before client payments arrive. It’s a tool for planned liquidity, not just crisis response.

Summing Up

A LOC is neither risky nor complicated if you understand how it works. Most of the fear around it comes from misinterpretation. It’s not a license to overspend, but it’s also not a financial trap. Used carefully, it is one of the most flexible borrowing options available in Canada today.

Todayville Content Team

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Todayville Content Team works with a wide variety of clients to develop compelling content solutions. Our experienced team develops strategic campaigns that use video and storytelling, digital advertising and social media to help our clients position and distinguish themselves in the market.

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