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Letter of credit

A bank payment undertaking tied to presentation of documents complying with its stated conditions.

Search terms: LC documentary credit

A business example

An exporter agrees to present specified shipping documents under a documentary credit.

Follow the exampleFictional business scenario
  1. Credit terms

    The parties align required documents and shipment details before dispatch.

  2. Presentation

    The exporter submits the documents specified in the credit.

  3. Document examination

    The bank examines compliance with the credit's conditions.

What this shows

A successful delivery and a compliant document presentation are separate questions. An avoidable document discrepancy can disrupt the payment process.

What it is often confused with

Document compliance and the physical quality of goods are different issues.

What to look at in your business

Align required documents, shipment dates and presentation conditions before dispatch.

Context and further reading

RBI: guarantees and co-acceptances. This reference supports the terminology; use the linked guide for applicability and operative requirements.

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Related terms

KYC

Checks used by regulated institutions to establish customer identity and understand relevant ownership and risk information.

Bank guarantee

A bank's undertaking to a beneficiary under stated guarantee terms on behalf of its customer.

Collateral

An asset or interest provided as security for an obligation, subject to the relevant documentation and law.