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Business Startup Loan Frequently Asked Questions

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Written by:

Kristin Marino

Posted on September 22, 2021

For most entrepreneurs, starting a company is the result of a lot of hard work.

If you’re ready to jump into the startup world, you know there are many factors that go into launching a new business. This includes getting the funding to get it up and running. To get the financing you need, you can apply for a startup loan to help with everything from office space to equipment to payroll.

Here are some of the most common questions you may have regarding launching your startup business with a startup business loan.

How Can I Get a Startup Loan?

Just as with any other type of loan, you’ll have to go through a thorough application process. When you apply for a startup loan, you’ll need to submit a detailed business plan and information on how the money will be used for your business.

This not only helps banks assess whether or not you should receive the loan, but it also gives you an idea of how much money you should try to borrow. The amount of money you’re asking for can also have an impact on your approval. You should also have your business registered and obtain any required licenses before you apply.

To get a startup loan, you may be asked to provide information about your previous business experience, particularly if you run a business in the same industry as your startup.

Also, you’ll be required to show information about your personal finances, applicable prior business finances, as well as details on how you intend to pay back the loan.

How Do I Qualify for a Business Startup Loan?

A business startup loan is similar to a personal loan. When you apply, you will be required to show your creditworthiness to be approved. If you previously owned a business, you will be required to submit your credit history to demonstrate that you have a good record and experience handling the finances of a company.

You’ll also be required to submit documentation about your personal credit score. A good score, which is typically 680 or above, will help further show that you use credit responsibly. If you’ve never owned a business before, this is especially important because banks will rely on that information to assess whether or not to approve your application.

To qualify for a business startup loan, you may also be required to offer collateral. Since your business is brand new, you won’t have any business assets to provide. As a result, the bank will generally expect collateral of your home, car, or other assets to guarantee the loan.

Some banks may also expect business owners to offer a cash down payment of 10% of the loan they’re applying for or make a personal pledge for that amount. The lender may require you to provide a combination of the collateral types to receive the business startup loan.

Can I Get a Startup Business Loan Without Collateral?

When you’re starting a business, especially your first business, money may be tight. You may need a business loan to help get your operations up and running. But what do you do if you don’t have any collateral? It is possible to get a startup business loan without collateral, but you should keep some things in mind.

If you’re not using collateral to guarantee your loan, you want to make sure that your personal credit score is high enough to qualify for an unsecured business loan.
To do this, you should try to pay off as much debt as you possibly can before you apply for a loan. If you can’t get the balances down on your debt, you still may be able to get your startup business loan. You can expect to pay higher interest rates than you normally would if you can’t provide collateral.
When you don’t have collateral, an alternative to getting a business loan may be obtaining a business credit card. This can give you access to the cash you need to run your day-to-day operations. A business credit card may be your best option if you already have good personal credit, because you may qualify for a card with certain benefits. Benefits for business credit cards may include cashback for business purchases, an introductory offer that includes the 0% APR for the first months of having the card, and travel miles.

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