What is the term used for the evidence of indebtedness?

The correct term used for the evidence of indebtedness is a credit instrument. A credit instrument is a formal document that signifies a borrower's promise to repay borrowed funds, often accompanied by the specific terms of the loan such as interest rates, repayment schedules, and due dates. This instrument serves as legal evidence that the borrower owes a specific sum to the lender under agreed conditions.

In the context of real estate finance, credit instruments can include promissory notes and mortgages, which detail the obligations of the borrower. The clarity and detail provided in these instruments help both parties understand their rights and responsibilities, which is fundamental to the lending process.

Other options, while related to finance, do not serve the same specific function as a credit instrument. A lien refers to a legal right or interest that a lender has in the borrower's property, which secures the loan but is not itself evidence of indebtedness. Debt is a more general term that describes the state of being obligated to repay borrowed money but does not serve as documentation of the obligation. A promise, while it may describe the commitment of the borrower, lacks the formalized nature and legally binding characteristics associated with a credit instrument.