So, what type of funding do you need? Wondering “where can I go to get a small business loan for a new business?” Small business loans can help you reach many of your business goals. They can help you keep control of your profits and business, avoid problems with loans from family or friends, and protect you from putting your personal assets at risk.

Your need for capital will vary from smaller, short-term financing for purchasing equipment, buying new or additional inventory, and leasehold improvements to more extensive, longer-term loans for expansion projects and growth.

Requirements to Apply for Small Business Loans

While specifics may vary slightly, the general small business loan requirements include the same primary elements.

Credit Scores

Since you assume responsibility for the small business loan, your credit score matters and plays a large part in determining the loan amount. Keep in mind that if you have more than one owner, the bank will want to see credit scores for everyone, along with the overall business credit score. Before heading to the bank to apply, it may be in your best interest to check your credit report for any inaccuracies. Also, if you are close to a higher threshold, you may want to take steps to boost your score that little bit.

Business Banking Records

The bank needs to see your business banking records to assess the foundation and assign a rating, which determines how much the business can borrow. Try to abide by the following tips to make sure you are in good standing:

• It’s ideal to maintain a steady balance with regular deposits to demonstrate consistent revenue and responsible financial management.
• Avoid overdrawing your account and set up overdraft protection.
• You may want to ask for a bank reference from your company’s banking institution. It could go a long way in convincing a lender.
• Of note, most lenders like to see companies in business for at least 6 months, so you may be asked to show time in business as well.

Keep in mind that there are key numbers the bank will look at when determining your rating and loan amount. Lenders like to use a broad approach, so they will want annual gross sales along with monthly numbers for the following:

• Gross margin
• Cash flow
• Debt to equity ratio
• Accounts payable and accounts receivable
• Earnings

Monthly Sales Volume or List of Collateral and Assets

Some lenders ask for collateral while others do not. However, most lenders request that you list company assets on the application. They want to know what could cover your obligations in the event you can’t repay the loan. Alternatively, you can provide proof of sufficient deposits into your business bank account that can provide confidence to the lender that loan payments can be met.

So, what is a small business loan? Simply put, a small business loan is any funding option specifically designed for a small business. Small business loans allow existing or startup companies to borrow money from various lenders. Various loan types exist to help entrepreneurs meet different goals. The way each loan works depends on the type of loan.

There are many business loans on the market and it can be beneficial to go over just a few of them.

Term Loan – A standard bank-type loan. You receive the funding and pay off the principle plus interest over time.

Equipment Financing – An excellent way for a growing business to get an edge. You receive the equipment upfront and pay it off over the life of the equipment.

Accounts Receivable Financing – If you have large amounts of outstanding invoices, you can borrow against them. The invoices act as collateral and AR Financing offers lower rates.

Merchant Cash Advance – A merchant cash advance is borrowed against future credit card sales. A borrower then pays back a percentage of daily CC sales to the lender. So, you never have to see the payments!

Business Line of Credit – A business line of credit works just like a non-physical credit card. The owner of a small business is extended a line of credit and is charged the interest only or what is spent.