Money and Credit

What Is Cash Credit Class 10: Definition and Explanation

By ConceptScroll Team · Published on 18 June 2026 · 4 min read

What is cash credit class 10? It is a short-term loan facility provided by banks to businesses to meet their working capital needs. This concept is important in the Money and Credit chapter of Class 10 Social Science NCERT.

Definition of Cash Credit for Class 10 Students

Cash credit is a type of short-term loan provided by banks to businesses or traders to help them manage their day-to-day expenses. It allows the borrower to withdraw money up to an agreed limit from the bank whenever needed. The amount withdrawn can be repaid and withdrawn again within the credit limit during the loan period.

In simple terms, cash credit is like a running account where the borrower can repeatedly use the money as long as they do not exceed the limit. This facility is especially useful for businesses to maintain smooth operations without facing cash shortages.

Key points:

  • Provided against security like stock or receivables
  • Helps in meeting working capital requirements
  • Interest is charged only on the amount actually used

This definition is part of the Class 10 NCERT Social Science chapter "Money and Credit," which explains how credit supports economic activities.

Features of Cash Credit Explained for Class 10

Understanding the features of cash credit helps Class 10 students grasp its importance:

  • Short-term loan: Usually granted for up to one year.
  • Flexible withdrawal: Borrowers can withdraw money as needed within the limit.
  • Security: Banks require collateral such as stock, goods, or receivables.
  • Interest on usage: Interest is charged only on the amount withdrawn, not the entire limit.
  • Renewable: The credit limit can be renewed after the expiry period.

These features make cash credit a convenient and cost-effective way for businesses to manage their working capital. It differs from a fixed loan where the entire amount is given at once and interest is charged on the full sum.

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How Cash Credit Works: A Simple Example for Class 10 Students

Let's understand how cash credit works with an example:

Suppose a trader has a cash credit limit of ₹1,00,000 from a bank.

  • The trader withdraws ₹60,000 to buy goods.
  • After some sales, ₹30,000 is repaid to the bank.
  • Now, the trader can withdraw up to ₹70,000 again (₹1,00,000 - ₹30,000 used).

Interest calculation: Interest is charged only on the amount used. If the interest rate is 12% per annum, and ₹60,000 was used for 3 months, the interest will be:

$$ \text{Interest} = \frac{60,000 \times 12 \times 3}{100 \times 12} = ₹1,800 $$

This example shows the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of cash credit for managing short-term funds.

Difference Between Cash Credit and Term Loan

It is important for Class 10 students to distinguish between cash credit and term loans. Here's a comparison table:

FeatureCash CreditTerm Loan
PurposeWorking capital requirementsLong-term investment or assets
Loan tenureShort-term (usually up to 1 year)Long-term (more than 1 year)
WithdrawalFlexible withdrawals up to limitLump sum disbursal
Interest chargedOn amount usedOn entire loan amount
SecurityAgainst stock or receivablesAgainst fixed assets or collateral

Understanding this difference helps students answer exam questions clearly and accurately.

Importance of Cash Credit in the Economy

Cash credit plays a vital role in the economy by supporting businesses in managing their daily operations smoothly. Here's why it is important:

  • Ensures liquidity: Businesses have ready cash to meet immediate expenses.
  • Supports production: Helps in buying raw materials and paying wages.
  • Promotes trade: Traders can maintain stock and supply goods without delay.
  • Boosts economic activity: Continuous flow of credit helps in economic growth.

For Class 10 students, understanding this importance connects the concept to real-life economic functions, making the chapter more relevant and interesting.

Tips for Class 10 Students to Remember Cash Credit

To prepare well for the CBSE exam, Class 10 students should keep these tips in mind:

  • Focus on the definition and key features of cash credit.
  • Remember the difference between cash credit and term loan.
  • Understand the example of interest calculation on cash credit.
  • Relate cash credit to working capital and business needs.
  • Practice NCERT exercises and solved examples thoroughly.

These strategies will help students answer questions confidently and score well in the Money and Credit chapter.

Frequently asked questions

What is cash credit in simple words for Class 10?

Cash credit is a short-term loan from banks allowing businesses to withdraw money up to a limit for daily expenses.

How is interest calculated on cash credit?

Interest is charged only on the amount withdrawn, not on the total credit limit.

What is the main purpose of cash credit?

Its main purpose is to meet working capital needs like buying raw materials and paying wages.

How is cash credit different from a term loan?

Cash credit is flexible and short-term; term loan is fixed and long-term with lump sum disbursal.

Who can get cash credit from banks?

Businesses or traders with sufficient security like stock or receivables can get cash credit.

Why is cash credit important for the economy?

It ensures liquidity for businesses, supporting production and trade, thus boosting economic growth.

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