Securing funding for your small business is a critical step, and comprehending the terms associated with business loans can streamline the process. This guide introduces essential terms for small business owners navigating the loan application process.
Duration of Business Loans The loan term varies with the type of loan you’re considering for your business needs.
Bank Term Loan (3-10 years) Known as commercial loans, these typically range from three to 10 years, extending to 20 years if collateral is used. They offer lower interest rates compared to other options like credit cards, which average around 16%. For SBA-backed loans, rates are prime plus 2.25% to 6.5%, as per the U.S. Small Business Administration.
SBA Loan (5-25 years) SBA loans, partnered with banks and other financial institutions, offer terms between five to 25 years. The common types include SBA 7(a), 504, and SBA Express loans, with repayment taking 30 to 90 days to initiate. Microloans, a special program, require repayment in under six years.
Brock Blake, CEO of Lendio, clarifies, “The SBA guarantees loans rather than funding them, reducing lender risk and enhancing loan appeal.” SBA loans boast some of the lowest interest rates, influenced by the prime rate and lender spread, capped by the SBA.
Short-term Online Loan (3-24 months) These loans have a quick turnaround of one to two days and terms from three to 24 months. Ranging from $5,000 to $250,000, they are an alternative lending option from nonbank lenders, generally charging higher interest rates.
Long-term Online Loan (1-5 years) Terms for these loans span one to five years, with amounts between $5,000 and $500,000. Approval takes about two days, and they can be used for various purposes without collateral. However, they may carry higher interest rates due to increased risk for lenders.
Merchant Cash Advance (3-18 months) With terms from three to 18 months and amounts from $5,000 to $500,000, these advances are repaid via a percentage of credit card sales. They are suitable for businesses like retail stores and restaurants with consistent credit card transactions.
Blake notes, “Merchant cash advances suit startups due to repayment based on daily sales, offering a viable solution for immediate capital needs.”
Online Invoice Financing (30-90 days) This option involves selling unpaid invoices to a factoring company. The funding process takes about five days, with the factoring company collecting payments from clients within 30 to 90 days.
Understanding How Business Loans Work When you take out a business loan, you agree to repay the borrowed amount plus interest and fees. Lenders assess various factors during the application process.
Key Terms for Loan Applications
- Credit Score: Measures creditworthiness; a lower score may result in higher interest rates.
- Cash Flow and Income: Analyzed by lenders to gauge risk; higher figures can improve loan approval chances.
- Age of Business: Many lenders require a minimum operational period, often two years, before lending.
- Collateral: Assets pledged as security for the loan, subject to seizure upon failure to repay.
Interest rates vary based on loan type, with alternative options like merchant cash advances or invoice factoring typically having higher rates than traditional bank or SBA loans.
Navigating the Loan Application Process Understanding the loan application process is crucial for successful financing. Here are additional terms and considerations:
Loan Application Terms
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): This is the total cost of your loan per year, including interest and fees. A lower APR means the loan will cost you less over time.
- Loan Agreement: The contract you sign with the lender, outlining the loan terms, repayment schedule, interest rate, and any penalties.
- Lender’s Fees: These may include origination fees, processing fees, and potential prepayment penalties. Always clarify these costs upfront.
Tips for Successful Loan Application
- Gather Documentation: Prepare financial statements, business plans, and tax records before applying.
- Review Your Credit: Check your credit score and report for any inaccuracies that could affect your loan approval.
- Compare Lenders: Don’t settle for the first offer. Compare terms from multiple lenders to find the best deal for your business.
- Calculate Repayments: Understand your repayment capacity. Use loan calculators to estimate monthly payments and ensure they align with your budget.
- Seek Expert Advice: Consult with financial advisors or mentors to make informed decisions.
After Loan Approval Once your loan is approved, ensure timely repayments to maintain a good credit score and build a positive relationship with the lender. This can be crucial for future financial needs.
Conclusion Securing a business loan involves understanding various financial terms and processes. By being well-prepared and informed, you can navigate the loan application process more effectively, securing the best possible terms for your business’s growth and stability.