How to fill in this promissory note
- 1Place
e.g. Pasig City - 2Date
e.g. November 12, 2026 - 3Borrower's full name
e.g. Rodel P. Bautista - 4Borrower's address
e.g. Blk 5 Lot 9, Ilang-Ilang St., Brgy. Rosario, Pasig City - 5Lender's full name
e.g. Lourdes C. Navarro - 6Lender's address
e.g. 22 Dr. Sixto Antonio Ave., Brgy. Kapitolyo, Pasig City
When a promissory note is the right paper
Use a promissory note whenever money is lent between family, friends, employees or businesses. It records how much, to whom, and when it will be paid — so there is no argument later about what was agreed.
Sign it the safe way
A promissory note protects the lender only if it can be proved. A few habits make it strong.
- The borrower signs in front of two witnesses, who sign too.
- Attach a copy of the borrower's valid ID, signed by them.
- Hand over the money by bank transfer or GCash, or get a separate acknowledgement receipt for cash.
- Each keeps an original copy.
When it is not paid
Send a written demand first (DocsOfUs has a demand letter). If you and the borrower live in the same city or municipality, the barangay must try to settle it before a court will hear it; claims up to ₱1,000,000 can then go to small claims court, without lawyers.
Questions people ask
Does a promissory note need to be notarized?
No — a signed promissory note is valid between the parties. Notarizing it makes it a public document, which is easier to prove in court and harder to deny. For larger loans, notarize it.
Can I charge interest?
Only if it is written in the note. Under the Civil Code, no interest is due unless it was expressly agreed in writing. Courts may reduce interest they find unconscionable — rates far above the market, such as several percent a month, are often cut down.
What if the words and the figures differ?
Write both carefully. Under the Negotiable Instruments Law, when the sum in words and the sum in figures differ, the words prevail. This paper writes the words for you from the figures.
Is this legal advice?
No. It is the common Philippine format for a simple loan between people or a small business. For a large loan, a loan with collateral (a car, land), or a business lending money regularly, ask a lawyer.
This page explains common practice and is not legal advice. Offices set their own rules — when in doubt, call ahead or ask your notary or lawyer.