Promissory Note
A Promissory Note is a negotiable instrument that allows you to set out the payment of a sum of money.
Last updated October 23, 2025
Suitable for Australia
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Frequently asked questions
Use this Promissory Note if:
- You would like to document that a sum is owed to you; or
- You would like to document that a sum is payable by you.
What does the Promissory Note cover?
- Payee and Issuer Details;
- Sum;
- Interest Details;
- Transferability; and
- Payable Details.
Other names for Promissory Note include:
- IOU;
- Payment on Demand; and
- Payment on Arrival.
What is the difference between a Promissory Note and a Loan Agreement?
A Promissory Note is a simple negotiable instrument issued by you, or from you, for the promise to pay a sum of money. A promissory note is often one-sided only imposing obligations on the borrower. Unlike a promissory note, a loan agreement is more complex, and imposes obligations on both parties, which is why both the borrower and lender must sign the agreement.
Is a promissory note a contract?
A promissory contains a promise to pay an agreed sum of money and is treated as a contract between two parties. Once the promissory note is signed by the issuing party, the payer (borrower) is are under a legal obligation to make the payment to the payee (lender).
Can a promissory note made payable to more than one payee?
No, there can only be a single payee. A promissory note is an agreement that is made between two parties, the borrower and and lender.
What is required to make a promissory note legal?
Once the issuing party (the borrower) has dated and signed the promissory note, it hold a legal and binding effect on the borrower to pay back the loan. Depending on whether it is a personal or corporate loan, certain consumer credit and corporate laws may apply.
Is it legal to have a promissory note with no interest?
Yes, the Lender can choose whether or not to charge interest. If the Lender decides to charge interest, they can pick how much interest to charge but it must be a reasonable rate. Depending on the amount debt owed, the interest rate often varies from 10-15%.
View Sample Promissory Note
The Legal Risk Score of a Promissory Note Template is Low
Our legal team have marked this document as low risk considering:
- The promissory note requires the payee to present the note to demand payment, which might delay access to funds if the note is not readily presentable or if the location of presentation is inconvenient or unclear.
- Interest accrues only after a certain date and is payable in arrears, which could result in lower returns for the payee if the note is presented much later than the start date of interest accrual.
- The note is governed by unspecified laws, which introduces uncertainty regarding the legal framework and interpretations that apply, potentially complicating enforcement or legal proceedings.
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