GovWire

About this service

UK Export Finance (UKEF) offers credit insurance for exporters in the UK. Find out more about what cover we provide.

If youd like to apply for UKEF credit insurance, we first need to find out if youre eligible. Next, well ask you questions about your business, buyer and your export.

Well also ask you to share some documents with us after youve submitted your application. Well explain what these documents are in the sections below.

This information may also be useful for your broker, if youre using one. Your broker should register with UKEF.

Applying for UKEF credit insurance

Whats covered in the form?

Before you apply, well ask you some questions to find out if youre eligible to use the service. If youre unsure if youd be eligible, you can find out more about eligibility before you apply.

The application itself is split into four sections. These ask you about:

1. your business
2. your buyer
3. what type of cover you need
4. your export contract

Each section should take about 10 to 15 minutes to complete.

Can I save my progress?

If youre eligible, youll be asked to create an online account with us. Once youve set up your account, your progress will be saved automatically.

You can complete the sections in any order and you dont need to complete the form in one sitting.

How long do I have to complete the form?

You have 30 days to complete the application once youve started it. After 30 days, your application will be deleted and youll have to start again.

Logging in does not reset this counter. We suggest you try to complete the application as soon as possible to avoid needing to start again.

Can my broker help me with my application?

Only exporters can complete the application. Your broker can help, but they cannot fill in the application on your behalf.

Please note, brokers need to be approved by UKEF to be paid their commissioning fee. Its easy to register. Your broker can apply by emailing exipunderwriting@ukexportfinance.gov.uk and completing the registration form.

Information youll need by section

Your business

• How many permanent and contracted employees you have in the UK

• Your estimated turnover for this financial year

• Any credit management processes in place

• Any credit insurance in place for other exports

Your buyer

• Your buyers business information, including their address

• If youre connected to the buyer in any way

• Your trading history, if youve worked with them before

• Any credit insurance youve held for them in the past

• Your buyers financial accounts, if you have access to them

Your insurance policy

• The type of policy you want (single or multiple contracts)

• The total value of the contract you want to insure, including the entire commercial value over multiple shipments

• Your pre-cover period (if you want one)

If relevant, well also ask you to share information about:

• Any other parties or companies that need to be jointly insured

• Your broker, including their name, contact details and location

• Your loss payee

Your export contract

• The goods or services youre exporting

• How youll get paid

• Your experiences trying to get cover in the private insurance market

• Your commissioning agent (if you have one)

Start your application

Help and support

If you have any questions or need extra support during your application, contact an export finance manager.

Find your nearest Export Finance Manager.