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How to Get a Business Loan in 7 Steps

Nicholas Kane

2022-02-15

Use this guide to help you compare small business loans, apply for financing and get your business the cash it needs to grow. There are two types of financial institutions that will be able to provide working capital for your company's growth: Banks and alternative lenders/financiers. 

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Before Applying

Before applying for a loan with any lender, make sure you are well aware of the costs involved in borrowing money, including interest rates and fees. Some lending institutions may also require you to put up collateral or offer reasonable assurance of repayment. 

Make sure you review all terms carefully before signing anything. If you feel uncomfortable at any time during this process, consult a third-party advisor such as an accountant or attorney before proceeding further. 


Getting Your Financing Started

When looking to finance your business, you should first consider all possible options. After speaking with prospective lenders about the best financing option for the growth of your company, you should create a list of banks and alternative financiers that can provide the cash needed to expand your business. 

What are Your Funding Requirements?

Before approaching any lender it is important to have an understanding of your funding requirements. How much money do you need? What will it be used for? How long do you expect it to take before you repay this principal amount? It is also beneficial if you can provide financial projections (including sales revenue forecasts), market research reports, and industry trends. Once you determine how much financing is required, discuss these details with potential lenders. 

Take the Time to Compare Your Financing Options

In order to make an informed decision, it is important to take the time to compare your financing options. This will not only give you a clear idea of how much money is required and over what period of time, but also provide you with information on: 

Repayment Schedule: 

  • How often do you expect to repay the loan? 
  • What are the terms for repayment – installments or balloon payment? 
  • Interest rates: Will this change during the lifetime of the loan? 
  • Fees and charges: What fees and charges (e.g., legal fees or administration costs)? 
  • Loan security: What proof do I need to offer as collateral against defaulting on my loan?


Find the Right Financing Partner

After narrowing down your list of potential lenders, we suggest you contact each lender and explain why you need their financing services. This will help them better understand your business and its requirements. Be honest with each prospective lender about your needs - they should be able to provide a range of loans that matches the nature of your business. Make sure there is nothing standing in your way of getting funded! 

It can be difficult to find the right financing partner for your business. This guide will help you compare small business loans, apply for financing and get your company the cash it needs to grow. Many lenders offer different types of repayment schedules, interest rates, and fees that may impact how much money is required upfront or over what period of time they are repaid. 


Conclusion

After creating a list of banks and alternative financiers that can provide this type of funding requirement, take the time to look at all options before making an informed decision on who offers the best finance option for growth in your company!