Letter of Credit: Issuance, Confirmation, Discounting Explained
Letters of Credit (LCs) are the foundation of international trade. They provide sellers with payment assurance and buyers with proof that payment will only occur once contractual terms are met. Below we explain the critical stages and terms in the LC process, aligned with international banking practice under UCP600 and URDG758.
“Understanding issuance, confirmation, and discounting is what separates exporters who get paid on time from those who take unnecessary risk.”
★★★★★
— CFO, International Exporter
Key Terms in the LC Process
| Term |
Definition |
Why It Matters |
| Issuance
|
The buyer’s bank (issuing bank) creates the LC in favor of the seller, undertaking payment if conditions are met. |
Provides formal assurance to the seller. Critical for contract execution and shipment release. |
| Advising
|
The advising bank authenticates and forwards the LC to the seller. |
Ensures the seller receives a valid LC, free from fraud or forgery. |
| Confirmation
|
A second bank (confirming bank) adds its own undertaking to pay, covering issuing bank and country risk. |
Protects sellers in high-risk jurisdictions or when the issuing bank’s credit is uncertain. |
| Discounting
|
Seller presents compliant documents and receives early payment from the confirming or nominated bank. |
Improves cash flow by converting receivables into immediate liquidity. |
| Negotiation
|
Bank examines documents, negotiates discrepancies, and forwards to the issuing bank. |
Avoids non-payment caused by document errors under UCP600 rules. |
| Amendment
|
Modifications to an issued LC, such as extending validity or adjusting shipment terms. |
Ensures the LC matches the realities of shipping and contract execution. |
| Discrepancy
|
Any deviation between presented documents and LC terms. |
Even minor discrepancies can cause refusal of payment, making control essential. |
How the LC Process Flows
1) Application
Buyer requests LC from issuing bank, specifying seller, goods, and terms.
2) Issuance
Issuing bank creates LC and sends to advising bank. Seller receives LC.
3) Confirmation
Confirming bank adds its own guarantee of payment, mitigating issuer and country risk.
4) Discounting
Seller presents documents. Bank checks compliance and pays early, deducting discount charges.
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We arrange issuance, confirmation, and discounting lines across major international banks, ensuring enforceable wording and synchronized execution.
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Financely is a placement and advisory firm. We are not a bank. We arrange issuance, confirmation, and discounting of letters of credit with our network of international banks. All mandates require AML/KYC and sanctions screening. Any securities-related activities, where applicable, are conducted through a licensed chaperone, Member FINRA/SIPC.