An accordion feature — also called an incremental facility — is a provision in a credit agreement that allows the borrower to increase the size of the existing loan facility without negotiating a new credit agreement. Like the instrument it is named for, the facility can expand when the borrower needs more room. What It Is When a company closes a syndicated credit facility, it typically negotiates a maximum size — a term loan of $500 million, for example, or a revolving credit facility of $250 million.

A springing lien is a security interest that does not exist at loan origination but automatically comes into force when a specified triggering event occurs. The lien “springs” into existence — without any additional documentation or action by either party — the moment conditions are met. What It Is In secured lending, a lien gives the lender a claim on specific assets if the borrower defaults. Normally, liens are granted at closing: the borrower pledges assets, the lender takes a security interest, and the arrangement is documented in the credit agreement.