Business loans can be a lifeline to businesses of all sizes. They can assist them to cope with seasonal fluctuations in revenue or unexpected expenses. They can also be used to invest in new inventory, equipment or a new location. The key is to use the funds wisely, so that you can increase the size of your business and avoid relying on debt financing in the future.
Before you apply, determine the amount of capital your business requires and which loan will meet those needs. It is also important to be aware of the time you’ll need to repay the loan, as this will affect your charges and interest rates. A lot of lenders offer one-time financing or a line of credit with repayment terms ranging from a few weeks to several years.
You’ll be required to provide several documents, such as your business plan, financial statements and credit history. They may also require collateral, like a real estate, equipment, or money due to your company (accounts payable). Some lenders will waive these conditions for established customers, those with excellent credit, and those who require large amounts of capital.
The lender will also consider whether your company has the capacity to repay the loan, using metrics like its fixed-charge coverage rate and the amount of cash it is likely to generate every month. They will also check whether your business has outstanding loans and assess whether or if it is in compliance with all legal requirements. They will also evaluate the industry you work in to determine whether it’s volatile or stable.
