Article 9 — Secured Transactions · Section 9-203

UCC § 9-203

Quick Answer

What does UCC § 9-203 cover?

Understand the requirements for attachment of a security interest under UCC § 9-203.

Source: U.C.C. § 9-203

Official Text
A security interest is not enforceable against the debtor or third parties unless: (1) value has been given; (2) the debtor has rights in the collateral or the power to transfer rights in the collateral to a secured party; and (3) either the debtor has authenticated a security agreement that provides a description of the collateral or the secured party has possession of the collateral.
Plain Language

UCC § 9-203 outlines the requirements for a security interest to be legally enforceable. It states that a secured party must give value, the debtor must have rights to the collateral, and there must either be a written agreement describing the collateral or the secured party must possess the collateral.

Key Definitions

Security Interest

An interest in personal property or fixtures that secures payment or performance of an obligation.

Collateral

Property that is subject to a security interest.

Practical Examples

Example 1

A bank gives a loan to a business and takes a security interest in the business's inventory as collateral under a written agreement.

Example 2

A car dealership finances a car purchase by taking a security interest in the vehicle, with the buyer signing a security agreement detailing the car as collateral.

Common Exam Issues
  • Distinguishing between attachment and perfection of a security interest.
  • Understanding the importance of the written security agreement in enforceability.
  • Identifying the rights of a debtor in relation to collateral.
  • Explaining how third parties may be affected by a security interest.
Related Sections
  • ucc-9-201
  • ucc-9-204
  • ucc-9-305

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