The idea of a 0% interest crypto loan often sounds misleading. In practice, it usually refers not to free borrowing, but to a standby credit structure where interest applies only when funds are actually used. Standby crypto credit lines change how borrowing works by separating access to capital from the cost of using it. This distinction explains how 0% interest is possible—and when it applies. What “0% Interest” Means in Crypto Lending In most cases, 0% interest does not mean that borrowed funds are free indefinitely. Instead, it means: No interest on unused credit Interest applies only after withdrawal Cost depends on how much capital is actually used This model contrasts with fixed crypto loans, where interest accrues on the full amount from the moment the loan is issued. Fixed Crypto Loans vs Standby Credit Lines A fixed crypto loan works in a simple but rigid way. You deposit collateral, receive a lump sum, and begin paying interest immediately on the full balance. A standby credit line works differently. You deposit collateral and receive a credit limit, not a loan. Borrowing is optional. If no funds are withdrawn, no interest accrues. This is where the 0% figure comes from: unused credit carries no cost. How Standby Crypto Credit Lines Work A standby crypto credit line follows a revolving structure: Crypto is deposited as collateral A credit limit is assigned based on LTV Funds can be withdrawn at any time Interest applies only to withdrawn amounts Repayment restores available credit The credit line remains open, even when unused. This structure suits users who want liquidity available without committing to interest payments in advance. Clapp’s Standby Credit Line Clapp offers a standby crypto credit line that reflects this model clearly. Users deposit crypto and receive a revolving credit limit. Withdrawals are optional. Any unused portion of the credit line carries a 0% APR. Interest applies only to the amount withdrawn, with annual rates starting as low as 2.9%, depending on LTV. Clapp also allows users to combine up to 19 cryptocurrencies into a single collateral pool, which improves capital efficiency for diversified portfolios. There are no fees on crypto or fiat deposits, and no fixed repayment schedule. Risks and Considerations A 0% interest structure does not remove risk. Key factors include: Market volatility affecting collateral value Loan-to-value thresholds Liquidation rules Managing LTV conservatively and avoiding unnecessary withdrawals helps reduce risk exposure. Final Thoughts 0% interest crypto loans are best understood as 0% interest access, not free borrowing. Standby credit lines separate availability from cost. Platforms like Clapp show how this model allows users to keep liquidity on hand while paying interest only when capital is actually used. For users who want flexibility and cost control rather than rigid loan terms, standby crypto credit lines offer a more practical approach to borrowing. Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
