Business loan credit score requirements vary based on many factors. Different lenders (even non-traditional lenders) might look at the same business loan requirements and weigh their importance differently.
It’s also true that your relationship to your lender may open more opportunities for you, even with a credit score that’s less than perfect. If you have a long relationship with your bank or credit union, or use a platform or service that provides financing to customers, these relationships can open the door to business loans not available to the general public.
Did you know? Term loans and lines of credit are offered through small business platforms like QuickBooks Capital leveraging QuickBooks users’ account info. These solutions can be quicker and easier to apply for than a financing option from a standalone funder.
Before you go into the bank, you’ll want to know where you stand with these four very important metrics:
Your credit score—both your personal and business score (yes, there is more than one)
Years in business—most banks want to see two or more
Your annual revenues—more is better than less
Your collateral—there are different types of collateral, depending upon the type of loan you’re looking for
Credit score is number one for a myriad of reasons. It’s the most important metric and is the cause of most rejections. Although there is hope for business owners with less-than-stellar credit, those options come with a cost. Minimum credit score requirements vary by loan type and lender, but you'll have the most options available to you with a minimum credit score of 650.
Minimum credit score by loan type.
Here are the minimum personal credit score requirements for each type of business financing to get an idea of the options available to you.
Type
Credit score requirement*
SBA loan
Minimums start at 615
Term loan
Minimums start at 600
Line of credit
Minimums start at 600
Invoice factoring
Typically have no credit score requirement
Equipment financing
Minimums start at 520
Business cash advance (Merchant cash advance)
Minimums start at 500
Commercial real estate
Minimums start at 650
Minimum credit score by lender type.
Here are the minimum personal credit score requirements for each type of business financing to get an idea of the options available to you.
Type
Credit score requirement*
Bank/Credit Union
Minimums start at 700
SBA Lender
Minimums start at 650
Online lenders
Minimums range from 500-650
CDFIs/Nonprofits
Varies widely. Some may have no credit score requirement.
Why does credit score matter?
Credit scores play an influential role in securing a business loan. This three-digit number quantifies your fiscal responsibility and reliability, providing lenders with a quick, objective assessment of your credit risk.
In essence, a good credit score signals to lenders that you've consistently fulfilled your financial obligations to other lenders on time and are likely to repay their loans promptly. Consequently, businesses with higher credit scores are often offered more favorable loan terms, including lower interest rates and longer repayment periods.
Conversely, a bad credit score could denote a higher risk proposition for the lender, potentially leading to a rejected application or a higher interest rate and stringent loan conditions.
About personal credit scores.
One of the most commonly used personal credit scores is the FICO Score, developed by the Fair Isaac Corporation. The FICO Score is calculated based on five main components, each weighted differently:
Payment history (35%) - This represents whether you've paid past credit accounts on time.
Amounts owed (30%) - This includes the total amount of credit and loans you're utilizing compared to your total credit limit, also known as your credit utilization ratio.
Length of credit history (15%) - This considers the age of your oldest credit account, the age of your newest credit account, and an average of all your accounts.
New credit (10%) - This comprises the number of new accounts you've opened or applied for recently, including credit inquiries.
Credit mix (10%) - This takes into account the diversity of your credit portfolio, including credit cards, retail accounts, installment loans, mortgage loans, and others.
FICO credit scores range from 300 to 850. Here's a general classification of FICO scores:
Bad credit: 300-579
Within a credit score of 300-579, you'll struggle to qualify for business financing. Once your score gets above 500, you may qualify for a cash advance, equipment financing, or invoice factoring depending on the lender and whether you meet other requirements.
Fair credit: 580-669
With a fair credit score of 580-669, you'll meet most minimum credit score requirements for a cash advance, invoice factoring, or equipment financing. If your score is 600 or above, you're more likely to qualify for a line of credit or term loan.
Good credit: 670-739
Within this credit range, you'll likely meet all lender's minimum credit requirements for term, SBA, commercial real estate, and bank loans.
Very good credit: 740-799
Exceptional credit: 800-850
About business credit scores.
A business credit score, much like a personal credit score, is a numerical representation of a business' creditworthiness. It provides a quick, objective snapshot of the financial health of a business and its ability to repay debts on time. The score is generated by credit bureaus such as Dun & Bradstreet, Equifax, and Experian, and ranges typically from 0 to 100.
The calculation of a business credit score considers several factors, including:
Payment history - As with personal credit, timely repayment of debts is crucial. Regular, on-time payments to creditors enhance your business credit score.
Credit utilization ratio - This measures how much of your available credit your business is currently using. A lower ratio (meaning you're using less of your available credit) can positively impact your score.
Length of credit history - Longer credit histories can benefit your business credit score, as they provide more data about your business' long-term financial behavior.
Public records - Bankruptcies, liens, and judgments can negatively affect your business credit score.
Company size and industry risk - Larger companies and those in industries considered less risky may have higher credit scores.
Lenders will typically review both your personal credit score and business credit score when qualifying you for a business loan.
How to increase your credit score.
If your credit score isn’t where you’d like it to be, there are several steps you can take to boost your score.
Monitor your credit reports.
Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion are where you’ll want to go to see your current credit reports. Make sure the information is correct and that your credit report reflects reality. Make sure that the report is accurate and that accounts that aren’t yours aren’t reported. Bankruptcies that are over 10 years old or the associated accounts shouldn’t be reflected on the report. Other negative information older than seven years should also not be included in the report.
Get a major credit card.
Getting a credit card and using it wisely is one way to boost your credit. Be sure to make your payments on time.
Arrange automatic payments on every card or loan.
It’s easy to forget to make a payment when it’s due or let travel or a busy schedule distract you. However, credit scores are very sensitive to whether or not you make payments on time, so do all you can to keep your payments regular and on time.
Don’t let disputes go to collections.
If you have a dispute with a vendor and you allow it to escalate to collections, it doesn’t look good on your report. Rather than taking this path, it’s better to pay under protest and go to small claims court. Don’t get sued, though, as lawsuits and judgments are also major dings to your credit.
Consolidate your debt if you can’t pay it off quickly.
The scoring criteria treat installment loan balances kinder than the same balances on a credit card. But be wise with your credit card balances and avoid running them up.
Take debt off your credit report entirely.
This is a tough one, but family, friends, or dipping into your retirement plan is sometimes a good way to get credit off your report entirely. Be careful about dipping into your 401k. If you borrow from a 401k and repay it there are no tax consequences, but if you withdraw money, there will be tax consequences.
Don’t close accounts or let them be closed.
It might not help your scores and could hurt them. If you’ve got a card you haven’t used for a while, take it out to dinner or buy a tank of gas, just make sure they’re included with your other automatic payments.
Don’t apply for credit you don’t need.
At about five points an application, if you have sketchy credit, it can add up.
Depending on how bad your score looks today, you might need to invest some time—but there is hope. Just remember, your credit score is the first thing any lender will look at before they offer you a small business loan.
Both types of financing can be useful, but they do serve slightly different business needs. Applying for the right type of capital at the right time ensures that you don’t run into any problems down the road—or create more problems down the road.
Here, we’ll look at term loans and lines of credit, the requirements, benefits, and drawbacks of each, to help you determine which is the right option for your small business.
What is a business term loan?
A term loan is a fixed funding transaction. It is a one-time loan based on the current cash flow of your business (often plus collateral that you pledge to secure the loan).
With a term loan, all of the proceeds are available at the time of closing. The lender bases your payments, interest, and principal on the amortized loan terms. For example, your business might take out a $100,000 loan at an 8% fixed interest rate over a 5-year term. Interest rates and monthly payments on term loans are generally fixed for the life of the loan.
If your term loan is secured (many are), the bank will assume an ownership position on the collateral you offer. This means you cannot transfer or liquidate the collateral you use to secure the term loan until you make the final loan payment.
The typical use for a term loan is to finance a major expenditure. However, it can also be used to cover daily cash flow expenses.
What is a business line of credit?
A business line of credit (LOC) is like a cross between a short-term business loan and a business credit card. When you open a business LOC, the lender approves you for a credit limit on the account. This credit limit represents the maximum amount of money your business can borrow at a given time.
As your business uses its credit limit, less money is available to borrow in the future. But your business can repay the money it borrows (plus interest) and regain access to the same credit line—as long as the business LOC remains in good standing.
As you borrow against the available credit limit, you accrue interest charges each month. You’ll only pay interest on the amount of money withdrawn.
A line of credit has the potential to be a great cash flow management tool. A study by Intuit found that 61% of small businesses face cash management challenges.
Smart uses for a line of credit include stocking up on discounted inventory, financing for marketing campaigns, covering temporary payroll needs, and more.
Making the choice: Term loan or line of credit?
To determine which option is better for your business,start by answering the following questions:
Why does your business need financing? How do you plan on using the capital?
What type of products or services do you offer (and what is the life of those goods)?
Is your business able to satisfy stricter lender borrowing requirements (with regard to credit, revenue, and time in business) or do you need a more lenient approval process?
Are your capital needs long-term or short-term?
What is your standing as a borrower (i.e. credit score, time in business, revenue, etc.)?
Based on the answers to these questions, you can decide whether a loan or line of credit is more appropriate.
If you have great credit, along with sufficient revenue and time in business and you want to borrow money to expand your business, a business term loan would be a solid choice. However, if you have credit problems, your business is relatively new, or you need repeated access to a cash flow financing solution, a line of credit is likely better for you.
In some cases, you may have access to a lender who offers both.
Did you know? Term loans and lines of credit are offered through small business platforms like QuickBooks Capital leveraging QuickBooks users’ account info. These solutions can be quicker and easier to apply for than a financing option from a standalone funder.
When it comes to deciding between your two options, understanding the differences between these financing products is important.
Differences between business lines of credit and term loans
A term loan can be an attractive financing solution due to its competitive interest rates and borrowing terms. That said, lender qualification criteria for a business term loan can be more challenging to satisfy compared to other types of financing for small businesses.
A business line of credit is a flexible funding resource that can be useful for many small businesses. Interest rates may be higher with LOCs compared to some term loans and other business financing options, but lender qualification standards are often more forgiving as a tradeoff.
The key differences generally lie in what costs are included, and how you're required to repay your loans.
Lender requirements
Ideally, in either case, you’ll have a credit score above 700, annual revenue that exceeds $100,000 and have been in business for at least 2 years. Depending on the lender, however, these levels may vary. There are always options.
The recommended minimum requirements for each are generally as follows:
Business term loan
Business line of credit
Minimum Credit Score
680
600
Annual Revenue
$96,000
$50,000
Time In Business
2 years
6 months
Repayment structure
Term loans offer many benefits to small businesses, including the fact that borrowers can often repay the funds they borrow over a longer period of time. Lenders typically require borrowers to make monthly (sometimes bi-weekly) payments with term loans. Longer repayment structures with less frequent payments can be friendly for investments in business growth that take time to provide returns.
Lines of credit allow business owners fast access to capital during a time of need.
As a tradeoff for speedy and flexible financing, business owners must often repay the money they borrow over a shorter period. In addition to expedited repayment terms, the payments themselves may also occur on a more frequent basis. Some lenders may require borrowers to make weekly payments toward the money they borrow from their LOC, though others may offer a less demanding payment structure.
Interest rates and fees
Term loans often feature lower interest rates than other types of business financing, including lines of credit. At the time of writing, you might find interest rates as low as ~6% with a business term loan, depending on your creditworthiness and other factors.
In addition to the interest rate a lender charges on your loan, it’s also important to factor in additional fees that could increase your overall costs. That might include origination fees, application fees, late fees, and prepayment penalties, as well as factoring fees and factor rates.
If you’re comparing term loans from multiple lenders to search for the best deal available, this free business term loan calculator from Lendio can help you crunch the numbers.
Lines of credit often feature higher interest rates compared to business term loans and other sources of financing. Interest rates commonly range between 8% and 24% on business LOCs.With lines of credit, many lenders also charge annual fees, origination fees, maintenance fees, late fees, and other expenses. So, read the fine print before you sign any financing agreement. You can also use this free line of credit calculator from Lendio to compare the cost of multiple business LOC options.
When should you apply for a business term loan?
If your business needs financing for any of the following reasons, a term loan is likely the better fit.
Opening a new location -Expanding to a new business location requires a sizable upfront investment that might take time to produce a profit. A term loan can help you amortize the investment over several years.
Hiring new employees -A term loan is a great way to handle the upfront costs associated with bringing on new staff and can provide a cash cushion for your business to manage increased payroll expenses.
Renovations and capital improvements - A term loan can stretch out upfront renovation costs, enabling your business to continue to run without a sizable cash outlay.
When should you apply for a business line of credit?
The following situations are examples of when a business line of credit could be helpful to a business.
Cash flow management -Many small businesses struggle to bridge the gap between accounts payable and accounts receivable. With a line of credit, a business can use this resource to pay its vendors and repay the funds it borrowed once its customers pay their invoices.
Seasonal sales cycles -Businesses that have a busy season could use a line of credit to ensure a cash cushion during slower months.
Inventory purchases -A business can draw on the line of credit to purchase inventory and pay it down when it sells the inventory at a later date.
The last thing to keep in mind– term loans and business lines of credit are not your only two options. Although these are two of the most popular and useful small business funding resources available, there are other types of small business loans you can consider if you feel like your business needs alternative financial resources.
Starting a new business can be an exciting journey, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles can be securing the right funding to get your startup off the ground. As a small business owner with poor credit, it can be even more difficult to find the financing you need. However, there are still options available to you. In this article, we’ll explore the possibilities of getting a startup business loan with no credit check or poor credit, as well as alternative forms of financing to consider.
Getting a business loan with no credit.
When you apply for a business loan, many commercial lenders will review your credit history to get a sense of how you’ve handled debt in the past. Reviewing previous credit history and checking your credit scores helps lenders predict risk. The problem for many entrepreneurs is that their new business hasn’t yet had a chance to establish a track record when it comes to managing credit obligations.
If a lender’s usual qualification metrics are based on longevity (aka time in business and length of credit history), they need to take a different approach for startups. Rather than look at business credit, a lender may focus on your personal credit score and overall business experience instead.
This alternative approach to risk assessment can work because a business owner’s personal credit scores can also provide a lender with valuable predictive analytics. At its core, a credit score (both business and personal) is a formula that lenders use to predict whether you’ll repay the money you borrow as promised. And that key information—the likelihood of repayment—is what a lender really wants to know when you apply for a loan.
The best small business loans with no credit check.
There are many loan products available to small business owners. Yet entrepreneurs with low credit scores or those who prefer to avoid a credit check for other reasons often find the most success with invoice factoring, ACH loans, or business lines of credit.
The qualification criteria for the three financing options above depend less on your credit scores and more on other factors. This doesn’t mean you will receive an automatic approval even with a very poor credit score. But if you have experience in your industry and some positive credit history, you may have a fighting chance at qualifying.
Below are some important details to consider regarding these three financing options:
1. Invoice factoring
With invoice factoring, the majority of lenders do not have a minimum credit score requirement. As a result, your application for funding from a factoring company may not involve a credit check at all. Here’s an overview of how this financing option works.
Invoice factoring involves selling your company’s outstanding B2B invoices to a financing company for cash. In general, a factoring company might advance you 70% to 90% of the value of your invoices. The factoring company then works directly with your client to collect the money owed when the invoice due date arrives. Once it collects the funds, the factoring company will return the remaining balance to you, minus a factoring fee (often 3% to 5%).
Lenders don’t typically check your credit when you’re seeking financing through an invoice factoring arrangement. Instead, the credit of your customers could matter. With this type of financing, a factoring company will collect payment from your customers, not you or your business. Therefore, your customer’s creditworthiness could impact your ability to qualify for financing and the fees a lender charges you as well.
2. Revenue-based financing
Revenue-based financing (sometimes called a business or merchant cash advance) could be another financing solution to consider if you need business financing for bad credit or no credit. Most lenders that issue revenue-based financing require a minimum credit score of 500 to 625. (These lenders often perform only a soft credit inquiry that won’t impact your credit score.) However, a handful of providers may not require a credit score review at all.
Revenue-based financing is so popular among entrepreneurs because of their rapid funding speed. Once a lender approves you, you can often receive your loan proceeds within a couple of days. This funding agility can present a substantial advantage for a small business in the startup phase.
Of course, just as with ultra-fast sports cars, you are likely to pay a premium for the speed of cash advances. On either a daily or weekly basis, the lender will take an agreed-upon amount from your bank account as an ACH deduction. The amount you can borrow tends to be lower than the loan amounts you might receive via other financing options. But many small business owners feel that the trade-off is fair, thanks to the convenience of revenue-based financing.
Lenders are likely to review your credit when you apply for a business line of credit (LOC). However, some lenders will only perform a soft credit inquiry to assess your business LOC application. (Remember, soft credit inquiries do not have any impact on your credit score, unlike hard credit inquiries that have the potential to impact your credit score.) Other lenders may perform a soft credit check for the pre-approval process and follow up with a hard credit inquiry at the time of funding.
In some cases , when you apply for funding through a service provider you already use, they can make decisions based on the data already available.
Did you know? Term loans and lines of credit are offered through small business platforms like QuickBooks Capital leveraging QuickBooks users’ account info. These solutions can be quicker and easier to apply for than a financing option from a standalone funder.
When researching a business line of credit, you’ll notice it's similar to a business credit card in a few ways. An LOC comes with a credit limit, often ranging from $1,000 to $500,000. Depending on the lender, you may have access to the funds within one to two weeks. The financing typically has a one- to two-year maturity.
Perhaps the best feature of a business LOC is its flexibility. If your restaurant needs a new fryer, buy it. If you need to hire employees, go for it. If you want to bulk up your inventory, do it. Nearly any expense that goes toward starting and sustaining your business is fair game.
Like credit cards, this type of financing also gives you access to revolving credit. This differs from most loans, which provide you with a lump sum of money upfront. With an LOC, you simply use the credit line whenever necessary. There’s no pressure to spend it, and you’ll pay interest only on the funds your business borrows.
Work to bolster your credit score.
It’s true that invoice factoring, ACH loans, and sometimes even business lines of credit can provide financing even when your credit is unimpressive. But that’s no reason to accept the status quo. You should put effort into improving your credit.
Working to earn better credit could open doors to you in the future. Not only can good credit help you qualify for more loan products, but it may also help you receive more favorable interest rates and repayment terms from lenders.
To maintain a stellar payment history, sign up for automatic payments whenever possible. If you can’t sign up through the payee, consider adding them to your banking system. At the very least, set up a regular calendar reminder so you won’t be forced to rely solely on your memory.
Alternative financing options
1. Crowdfunding – Crowdfunding is a way to raise money online by collecting small amounts from numerous people.
2. Family and Friends – Small business owners can borrow from family and friends, but there are risks. If the business fails or the loan can’t be repaid, important relationships may suffer.
3. Grants – Small businesses and startups may find it appealing to apply for grants as they don't need to be repaid. Although challenging, winning a grant isn't impossible.
4. Angel Investors –An angel investor funds small businesses in exchange for equity. It's a good option when businesses need more funding than they can get from friends and family, but not enough to attract venture capitalists.
5. Venture Capitalists – Venture capitalists provide funding to startups and receive a percentage of the company’s equity in return. Venture capitalists are typically looking for businesses with high-growth potential and a solid business plan.
Whether you’ve gone through a personal or business bankruptcy, lenders will consider past bankruptcies when making a loan decision. This post will cover common questions about bankruptcy and how it impacts your loan application.
Can you get a business loan after bankruptcy?
Yes, you can qualify for a business loan if you’ve had a bankruptcy. However, lenders will want to see that you’ve rebuilt your credit and will have varying waiting periods before you are eligible.
For example, term loans and lines of credit are offered through small business platforms like QuickBooks Capital to their customers leveraging QuickBooks users’ account info. These solutions can be quicker and easier to apply for then a financing option from a standalone funder.
However, each platform will have rules about when you could have last had a bankruptcy, such as not within the last 24 months.
When can you qualify for a loan after bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy policy will vary by lender. Some will require waiting seven years when the bankruptcy will be removed from your credit report. Others will consider your application within two to three years after the bankruptcy is closed if you’ve rebuilt your credit score. Some lenders will disqualify you if you have had multiple bankruptcies.
Can you get an SBA loan after bankruptcy?
Yes, you can qualify for an SBA loan if you’ve had a previous bankruptcy. The policy will vary by lender but generally starts at no bankruptcies or foreclosures in the past three years with no more than two total bankruptcies.
Types of bankruptcy.
Type
Description
Chapter 7
Known as "liquidation bankruptcy." It involves selling off assets to pay debts.
Chapter 11
Aimed at businesses, allowing them to remain operational while reorganizing debts.
Chapter 13
An individual's debt is reorganized into a payment plan over three to five years.
Chapter 7 bankruptcy
Chapter 7 bankruptcy, often referred to as liquidation bankruptcy, involves the sale of a debtor's non-exempt assets by a trustee. The proceeds are used to pay off creditors. This type of bankruptcy is designed for individuals or businesses that don’t have the means to pay back their debts. For businesses, this usually means the end of operations. However, individuals might see it as a fresh start, albeit with a significant impact on their credit report for 10 years.
Chapter 11 bankruptcy
Chapter 11 bankruptcy is primarily for businesses, allowing them to continue operations while reorganizing their debts. It’s a complex process that involves negotiating with creditors to modify the terms of the debt without selling off assets. This form of bankruptcy can be expensive and time-consuming but offers businesses a chance to recover and eventually return to profitability.
Chapter 13 bankruptcy
Chapter 13 bankruptcy is aimed at individuals with a regular income who want to pay their debts but are currently unable to do so. It involves a repayment plan lasting three to five years, allowing debtors to keep their property while making more manageable monthly payments towards their debt. The successful completion of the payment plan can lead to the remaining debts being discharged. Chapter 13 bankruptcy remains on an individual's credit report for seven years, offering a less severe impact compared to Chapter 7.
Waiting periods
Typically, a bankruptcy will remain on your credit report for at least 7 years. However, because the court filings are public, the fact that you declared bankruptcy would remain part of the public record if someone searches for it.
Steps to qualify for a loan post-bankruptcy.
Rebuild your credit.
Rebuilding your credit after bankruptcy is crucial for qualifying for a business loan. It may seem daunting, but it's possible with a strategic approach:
Start by regularly checking your credit report for inaccuracies. Dispute any errors that can negatively impact your score.
Consider obtaining a secured credit card. This requires a deposit acting as your credit limit.
Make small purchases with this card and pay off the balance in full each month. This shows lenders your responsible credit use.
Always make payments on time, keep your credit utilization low, and be patient. Credit rebuilding takes time, but consistent effort will gradually improve your creditworthiness.
Research lenders.
Find out which lenders will work with business owners with a prior bankruptcy and the thresholds you'll need to meet before you apply. If you apply through Lendio, we can help match you with lenders who will work with someone with your credit history.
Grow business income.
Lenders will also consider your business's current financial standing and future potential when evaluating your loan application. Focus on increasing revenue and building strong cash flow to demonstrate the ability to repay a loan.
Have you ever wondered why lenders pay such close attention to your credit score? It’s because they’re protecting their assets and want to determine whether they can trust you to consistently repay the money. If your credit score reflects a solid track record, you’ll get serious consideration. If you have major blemishes in your past, many lenders take defensive action.
Of course, we realize the life of an entrepreneur is full of risk. We’ve all collected our share of bumps and bruises along the way. So there’s no shame in a less-than-stellar credit score. And if you feel like your bad credit is keeping your business from achieving its potential, you’re not alone. However, don’t let one or two rejected loan applications keep you down. It is possible to get still business loans with bad credit.
Best business loans for bad credit.
The following list highlights lenders from our selection of best business loans that offer minimum credit requirements below 650 and have a lower minimum credit score requirement than their counterparts.
How a bad credit score impacts your business loan options.
Credit score requirements for business loans vary by lender and the type of loan. No credit requirements are the same, so you’ll always need to do your due diligence to find your best opportunities. This is especially true for bad credit loans online.
Traditional banks typically require good or excellent credit to qualify for a business loan. This means you should have a personal credit score of at least 670, although some banks will consider applicants with credit scores in the low 600s. If you’re applying for a long-term or SBA loan, banks may want to check your business credit score in addition to your personal credit score. In this case, you’ll want to have excellent business credit, as well—a Dun & Bradstreet score of 80 or above should suffice.
Where to find business loans for bad credit.
There’s still hope for business owners with bad credit. While big banks tend to offer the lowest interest rates, plenty of other affordable lenders out there offer bad credit loans online.
Service providers
As embedded financing unlocks new ways for business service providers and platforms to service their customers, financing options are now available in places you already frequent. From accounting software to e-commerce platforms, many tools you already use to run your business may offer access to capital directly within their interface—often with faster approvals and tailored options based on your business data.
Did you know? Term loans and lines of credit are offered through small business platforms like a QuickBooks Capital to their customers leveraging Quickbooks users’ account info. These solutions can be quicker and easier to apply for than a financing option from a standalone funder.
Lending Marketplaces
Lending marketplaces have opened the door for a new range of business owners to access business loans. These marketplaces are home to a wide range of lenders and leverage technology to connect borrowers with a loan that suits their needs and credit profile.
Loans from these lending marketplaces have a much higher approval rate than those from traditional banks. They also tend to be much easier to apply for, and you’ll often receive funding very quickly. This makes them an ideal source of loans for people with bad credit.
Microloans
Microloans are exactly what they sound like—small loans. These loans are geared toward entrepreneurs and are, therefore, easier to qualify for than traditional loans.
No credit? That’s not necessarily going to be a roadblock. Your microloan will typically be fulfilled by several lenders pooling their money together, so each lender can spread their risk among many different small loans. This feature makes peer-to-peer lenders more willing to lend to people with bad credit. However, if you don’t have good credit, you will end up paying higher interest rates.
CDFIs
Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) are non-profit or community-based financial institutions that offer loans to individuals and businesses in underserved communities. These institutions prioritize helping those who have historically been denied access to traditional financing options, which often includes business owners with bad credit.
CDFIs typically perform a more holistic evaluation of an applicant's creditworthiness, considering factors such as their character, community involvement, and potential for success. This approach to lending has made CDFIs a popular choice for business owners with bad credit.
Some examples of CDFIs include Accion and the Opportunity Fund. You can find more information about CDFIs through the CDFI Fund.
Types of loans for bad credit.
It’s important to know how to get a business loan if your credit isn’t in a great place. And there is a trio of financing products that often fit the bill perfectly. These loans for bad credit options are different from typical loans both in their structure and their low barrier to entry.
Let’s review each of the types of loans for bad credit and some of their unique attributes:
1. Business lines of credit
A business line of credit is a financing option that functions a lot like a credit card. To qualify, you’ll need to have a credit score of 600 or higher, have a business that’s been operating for at least six months, and make $50,000 or more a year.
2. Business cash advance
A business cash advance is a strong choice for business owners with bad credit because the financing eligibility is primarily based on the company’s revenue and other financials. The approval process is typically fast, so it’s also good for companies that need immediate access to capital. Lenders usually require daily payments that are automatically debited from your business account. In addition to the principal balance, you’ll also pay a factor rate. Your daily payments are usually calculated as a fixed percentage of that day’s sales, which can help you avoid overleveraging your business.
3. Invoice factoring
Lenders who offer invoice factoring focus on your business’ future earnings based on your current accounts receivables, so most lenders won’t look at your credit score. Some will have other minimum requirements, such as time in business and monthly revenue. Most lenders will also have limitations on the industries with which they will work, with some specializing in e-commerce and others focused solely on B2B or B2G brands.
4. Equipment financing
Equipment financing helps you finance specific purchases, whether it’s a piece of heavy machinery or software to help run your company more efficiently. In the case of equipment leasing, the purchased asset is used as collateral, which helps to widen eligibility requirements and keep interest rates lower than with many other options.
Most lenders have a one-year minimum time in business requirement, as well as a minimum annual revenue. A personal credit score is required, but minimums start in the 500’s.
Boosting your odds of qualifying for a business loan despite bad credit.
It's not just about finding the right lender—you also have to make yourself more appealing to them. Here are a few strategies to consider:
Improve your credit score - It’s easier said than done, but the most reliable way to make yourself attractive to lenders is by fixing your credit. Pay off outstanding debts, make sure you’re making all your current payments on time, and check your credit report for errors.
Offer collateral - If you can provide assets that the lender can seize in case you default on your loan, they may be more willing to work with you. These assets could be equipment, real estate, or other business properties.
Find a co-signer - If someone with a better credit score is willing to co-sign for your loan, that can greatly increase your chances of approval. However, remember that this person will be responsible for your loan if you can't make the payments.
Increase your cash flow - Lenders want to see that you'll be able to pay back the loan. If you can show that your business has a steady cash flow, you're more likely to secure the loan.
Build a strong business plan - As mentioned earlier, a solid business plan can go a long way. It shows that you're serious about your business, and it gives the lender confidence in your likelihood of success.
By following these steps, you can improve your chances of being approved for a business loan, even with bad credit. Remember, bad credit isn't a death sentence. It’s just a hurdle to overcome—and with the right approach, you can do it.
How to improve your credit score.
Improving your credit score takes time and effort, but it is worth it in the long run. Here are some steps you can take to improve your credit score:
Pay off outstanding debts - Focus on paying off any outstanding debts as soon as possible. This will not only improve your credit score, but also save you money in interest.
Make your payments on time - Late payments can significantly impact your credit score. Make sure you are making all of your payments on time, whether it's for a loan, credit card, or bill.
Monitor your credit report - Regularly check your credit report for any errors or discrepancies. If you find any, dispute them with the credit bureau to have them corrected.
Reduce your credit utilization - Your credit utilization ratio is the amount of available credit you're using. Aim to keep this below 30%, as it could positively impact your credit score.
Don't apply for too many new lines of credit - Each time you apply for a new loan or line of credit, it results in a hard inquiry on your credit report. Too many of these can negatively impact your score.
1Advertising Disclosure: Lendio may provide compensation to the entity who referred you for financing products and services listed on our site. This compensation may impact how and where certain products and services are offered to you. We may not list all financing products and services available to you. The information provided by Lendio is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional tax advice. Lendio is not a tax preparer, law firm, accountant, or financial advisor. Lendio makes no guarantees as to the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information provided. We strongly recommend that you consult with a qualified tax professional before making any decisions. Reliance on any information provided by Lendio is solely at your own risk, and Lendio is not liable for any damages that may result from the use or reliance on the information provided.
In today’s fast-paced, mobile-first world, it’s essential for businesses to prioritize customer convenience. Embedded finance is one creative (and often profitable) way that companies can accomplish this goal. With embedded finance features, non-financial companies can offer key services—like credit and banking products—while customers are already at the point of sale.
Whether a person is buying a pair of sneakers online or hailing a ride on their smartphone, consumers have grown to expect seamless financial transactions right where they’re located. And embedded finance is how many businesses—especially those that don’t sell financial products—are providing these services.
Embedded finance helps non-financial companies offer services like payments, lending, insurance, and banking directly through their own platforms. Understanding this technology can help your business improve customer satisfaction, unlock new revenue streams, and stand out in the digital marketplace.
Understanding embedded finance
Embedded finance refers to the integration of digital banking and financial products or services into a non-financial company’s platform or mobile app. More plainly, it means offering financial products—like credit, payments, or insurance—to customers right when and where they need them.
From a customer perspective, embedded finance provides added convenience and, in some cases, access to a financial product they might not find easily on their own. Meanwhile, for B2B platforms, retailers, and other businesses, embedding financial capabilities can unlock cross-selling opportunities while enhancing customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.
How does embedded finance work?
At its core, embedded finance is powered through APIs (application programming interfaces) and banking-as-a-service (BaaS) platforms. These services give non-banks the capability to “plug in” financial tools into their existing platforms without the burden of maintaining their own financial institution charters. When customers use these embedded services, they never leave the familiar platform where they initiated their original purchase. Behind the scenes, however, licensed financial institutions or third-party fintechs are powering the transactions and services.
Here are a few real-life examples of embedded finance in action.
A retailer integrates BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) services like Afterpay or Klarna into its platform or mobile app.
A department store offers a branded retail store credit card featuring discounts, rewards, and other benefits.
Lyft drivers use embedded banking services (including an in-app checking account and debit card) to access instant earnings, manage funds, and request cash advances.
Starbucks customers use the brand’s mobile app to store their credit or debit card information for one-tap payments while earning loyalty rewards.
By embedding financial services directly into their platforms, companies can offer more convenient, personalized, and stickier user experiences. And this trend is only gaining momentum. Experts predict the global embedded finance market will reach $7.2 trillion by 2030, according to Harvard Kennedy School.
Difference between embedded finance and fintech
At first glance, the terms “embedded finance” and “fintech” may sound interchangeable. But there are key differences that are important to understand.
Fintech refers to companies that develop financial technologies for consumers and businesses including tools for payments, budgeting, investing, lending, and more. Examples of fintechs include Stripe, Plaid, and Robinhood, among others.
Embedded finance is the integration of financial technologies into non-financial platforms through APIs. It refers to the financial service, not the developer.
In short, most embedded finance capabilities wouldn’t be possible without the fintech companies that develop and maintain the technologies. And fintech partnerships can help solve regulatory hurdles for non-financial companies that wish to offer embedded finance products as well.It’s also important to understand how BaaS (banking-as-a-service) providers fit into this landscape. BaaS allows regulated financial institutions to deliver services through non-bank businesses. For example, when Uber (a non-bank) offers debit cards to drivers, it partners with a regulated banking partner like Branch as a BaaS provider to deliver those services.
4 Types of embedded finance (with examples)
1. Embedded banking
Embedded banking brings banking functionality into non-bank platforms. Key features may include account creation, debit card access, deposits, money transfers, and more.
Examples of embedded banking include:
Shopify Balance offers merchants a business account, debit card, and rewards for eligible business-related purchases—all without leaving the Shopify system.
Lyft Directbusiness debit card and banking appprovides drivers with instant access to earnings, cash back, and other perks. These benefits reduce driver incentives to switch to competitors.
2. Embedded payments
Embedded payments are perhaps the most common example of embedded finance. This technology lets customers pay within an app or platform without being redirected to an external site (and without having to pull out their wallet to re-enter a credit card number). Instead, customers can save their payment method to use again for future purchases.
An example of embedded payments is:
Starbucks integrates payment capabilities and rewards into its app. This enables customers to earn stars, reload their balance, and check out in a single mobile location.
3. Branded payment cards
Many companies offer co-branded credit or debit cards which they tailor directly to the needs of their customers. Branded payment cards have been around for many years. But fintech has expanded capabilities in this space and increased opportunities for companies to offer embedded credit to customers—especially in the B2B space.
Example:
BILL offers a corporate card with scalable credit limits, built-in expense controls, and seamless integration into its financial operations platform.
4. Embedded lending
Non-financial business platforms can embed personal or business loans, working capital, and other credit tools directly into the customer experience. This technology enables companies to offer customers more payment options by turning customer pain points into convenient problem-solving opportunities.
Examples of embedded lending include:
Term loans and lines of credit are offered through small business platforms like QuickBooks Capital leveraging QuickBooks users’ account info. These solutions can be quicker and easier to apply for than a financing option from a standalone funder.
Buy Now Pay Later platforms like Afterpay and Klarna let consumers split retail purchases into smaller payments.
Lendio’s embedded lending marketplace helps digital platforms offer curated funding options to small business users in a single, convenient location—unlocking new revenue for site owners and new funding opportunities for small businesses.
Benefits of embedded finance
As a business, offering embedded finance to your customers isn’t just about convenience. It’s a way to create a competitive advantage and standout in the marketplace.
Some of the top advantages of offering embedded finance tools to customers include:
New revenue streams: Embedded financial services empower you to monetize your platform through transaction fees, revenue sharing, or white-label financial products.
Increased customer loyalty: The integration of financial tools simplifies the overall user experience. This reduces friction for customers and keeps users engaged by offering key financial services where and when they need them.
Competitive edge: As more businesses embrace the inclusion of embedded financial services into their platforms, consumer expectations are evolving. Meeting those expectations can help your business stand out and remain relevant in the marketplace.
Challenges of embedded finance
Despite the upsides, implementing embedded finance comes with hurdles as well—especially where compliance and data management are concerned. Some of the top challenges companies commonly face in this area are:
Regulatory risk: It’s important to partner with reputable, licensed providers to stay compliant with financial regulations.
Data privacy and security: Customers and regulators expect transparency and safety when your business handles sensitive financial data.
Integration complexity: Choosing the right fintech, API, and BaaS partners is critical for a smooth rollout and long-term scalability where embedded finance products are concerned.
Future of embedded finance
Embedded finance is still somewhat early in its development. Nonetheless, its impact is already reshaping how businesses serve customers. And experts predict that momentum will only continue to grow.
Emerging trends in embedded finance include:
More personalized financial tools tailored to user behavior.
Wider adoption by small and mid-sized businesses.
Deeper industry disruption in industries like B2B, retail, and travel.
To prepare, consider exploring potential fintech partnerships and evaluate your customer journey for potential embedded finance opportunities. Most of all, be sure to choose wisely when it comes to integration providers—especially where data security, privacy, and compliance are concerned.
SBA loan rates are tied to a base rate that changes with the market. Lenders can charge borrowers a rate that falls somewhere between the base rate and the maximum set by the government.
Current SBA rate maximums range from 10.5% to 15.5%.
Explore the most popular SBA loan programs and their rate structures to find out which one is the best fit for your company.
Before we dive in, get familiar with the basics in our SBA loans overview- a great place to start if you're exploring funding options.
How SBA loan interest rates work.
SBA loan rates are regulated by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Private lenders negotiate their own rates with each individual borrower. But the offered loan rate cannot exceed the maximum set by the SBA for each loan program.
The maximum is tied to a base rate, which can be one of the following:
Prime rate: The most commonly used rate, currently at 7.5%
Optional peg rate: Updated quarterly by the SBA based on market conditions, currently 4.5%
The borrower is then charged a markup (a percentage over that base rate). That varies based on:
Loan amount
Type of SBA loan
Loan maturity date
Current SBA loan rates (June 2025).
Here is how each SBA interest rate breaks down, based on the loan program and other details.
SBA 7(a) loan rates
SBA 7(a) loans can be used for general working capital needs and have interest rates that can either be variable or fixed. Fixed rates have a higher premium but never change, even if the base rate increases over time.
SBA 7(a) rates range from 3% to 8% above the base rate. Use the following table to compare rates for different loan sizes and term lengths. The current (June 2025) Wall Street Journal Prime Rate is 7.50%.
Amount
Maximum Fixed Rate
$25,000 or less
Prime +8%, or 15.5%
$25,000 - $50,000
Prime +7%, or 14.5%
$50,000 - $250,000
Prime +6%, or 13.5%
Greater than $250,000
Prime +5%, or 12.5%
Amount
Maximum Variable Rate
Up to $50,000
Prime + 6.5%, or 14%
$50,000 to $250,000
Prime + 6.0%, or 13.5%
$250,000 to $350,000
Prime + 4.5%, or 12%
Greater than $350,000
Prime + 3.0%, or 10.5%
Historical Prime rates
SBA 504 loan rates
SBA 504 loans are designed to purchase assets that help with job creation or business growth, such as new facilities, machinery, or renovating an existing property. These loans are available through certified development companies (CDCs) and offer fixed interest rates.
You can apply for either a 10-year or a 20-year repayment period. The SBA 504 rates are incrementally pegged above the current rates for 5-year and 10-year U.S. Treasury issues. The rate typically totals 3% of the loan amount.
Historical U.S. Treasury rates
SBA Microloan loan rates
Microloans from the SBA help newer small businesses with startup or expansion costs. Borrowers can get approved for up to $50,000, although the average loan size is $13,000. The maximum repayment term is six years.
Microloan rates are based on the lender’s cost of funds.
Loans over $10,000: 7.75% over cost of funds
Loans of $10,000 or less: 8.5% over cost of funds
Expect SBA microloan rates to range from 8% to 13%.
SBA Express loan rates
SBA Express loans allow for a shorter approval time, so you can get faster access to capital. In fact, you'll get an initial response within 36 hours. The maximum loan amount is capped at $500,000 and rate maximums are the same as SBA 7(a) loans.
SBA Community Advantage loan rates
The SBA Community Advantage loan program was created to help businesses in underserved markets. These loans were capped at $350,000. Interest rates were negotiated by the lender but were subject to the SBA's maximums. This program was sunsetted in October 2023.
Lenders under this program are now licensed as Community Advantage Small Business Lending Companies in the 7(a) loan program and will continue to provide access to financing to underserved communities.
Typical SBA loan fees
In addition to paying interest on SBA loans, borrowers may also pay an upfront SBA Guaranty Fee.
Upfront fee on SBA 7(a) loans
This fee is based on the approved loan amount, including both the guaranteed and the unguaranteed portions.
Loans with 12-month maturity or less
Loan Amount
Fee
$1 million or less
0%
$1 million+
0.25% of the guaranteed portion
Loans with more than 12-month maturity
Loan Amount
Fee
$1 million or less
0%
$1 million+
3.5% of guaranteed portion up to $1,000,000 PLUS 3.75% of the guaranteed portion over $1,000,000
To calculate monthly payments for your SBA loan, visit our SBA loan calculator. Need help finding the best interest rate for your SBA loan or other business term loan?
Because small businesses are so critical to the country’s success, the federal government launched the Small Business Administration (SBA) to help foster American small businesses.
The most popular way the SBA furthers its mission is through SBA 7(a) loans—if your business qualifies, you can get funding backed by the government that can help take your enterprise to the next level.
What is an SBA 7(a) loan?
An SBA 7(a) loan is a form of financing that is partially guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration. These loans are named after Article 7(a) of the Small Business Act of 1953, which launched the SBA and tasked the agency with supporting American small businesses through lending.
SBA 7(a) loans are popular for financing real estate purchases, working capital, and purchasing furniture and supplies. They’re also commonly sought for refinancing existing business debt.
Are all SBA loans 7(a) loans?
SBA 7(a) loans are the most popular type of loans offered by the SBA, so many people refer to them as “SBA loans”. Keep in mind that 7(a) loans are a specific loan program offered by the SBA, and there are several types of 7(a) loans. In addition, the SBA offers other types of loan programs, such as the 504 loan program, that don’t fall under this umbrella.
Acquiring, refinancing, or making improvements to Real estate
New-building construction
Renovation or expansion
Starting a new business
Purchasing an existing business
Refinancing current business debt
Purchasing furniture, fixtures and supplies
Multiple purpose loans
Changes of ownership
Loan proceeds may not be used to:
Pay off an existing business loan
Buy out a partner
Pay delinquent state or federal withholding taxes
Anything else that wouldn’t be considered a sound business purpose as determined by the SBA
Types of SBA 7(a) loans
The SBA has a suite of different financing products under its 7(a) distinction, and each one is meant to fill a different need in the small business ecosystem.
When considering your options, think about how large of a loan your business needs, your intended use of the funds, and how quickly you need the money.
SBA loans require a fair amount of information and paperwork, so researching 7(a) loan types will save you time later.
Type
Maximum loan amount
Maximum guarantee
Terms
Collateral
Purpose
Standard 7(a)
$5 million
85% up to $150,000 75% for loans greater than $150,000
Up to 10 years (working capital) Up to 25 years (real estate)
Required
Working capital Equipment Real estate Business expansion
7(a) Small Loan
$350,000
85% up to $150,000 75% for loans greater than $150,000
Up to 10 years (working capital) Up to 25 years (real estate)
>$50,000: Lender follows its policy for similar loans
Working capital Equipment Real estate
SBA Express
$500,000
50%
Up to 10 years (working capital) Up to 25 years (real estate)
Up to 10 years (revolving line of credit)
>$50,000: Lender follows its policy for similar loans
Working capital Equipment Real estate
Export Express
$500,000
>$350,000: 75%
Up to 7 years (lines of credit) Up to 10 years (working capital, equipment, and inventory purchases) Up to 25 years (real estate)
>$50,000: Lender follows its policy for similar loans
Entering or expanding an export business
Export Working Capital
$5 million
90%
Up to 10 years (working capital) Up to 25 years (real estate) Up to 3 years (line of credit)
Required
Working capital to support export sales
International trade
$5 million
90%
Up to 10 years (working capital) Up to 25 years (real estate)
Required
Facilities and equipment used to produce goods or services involved in international trade
CAP Lines
$5 million
85% up to $150,000 75% for lines greater than $150,000
10 years 5 years (Builders CAPLine)
Required
Cyclical working capital needs
Standard 7(a) loan
The standard 7(a) loan is the most common and most popular type of 7(a) loan backed by the SBA. The purpose of these loans is to allow small businesses to expand by funding working capital or the purchase of equipment, supplies, and real estate.
A standard 7(a) loan is available in amounts of $350,000 to $5 million. The maximum SBA guarantee is 85% for loans up to $150,000 and 75% for loans greater than $150,000. The SBA requires lenders to collateralize all standard 7(a) loans.
For standard 7(a) loans, while it is the lender's responsibility to perform credit analysis, loan structure and verify that the applicant meets SBA eligibility requirements, the SBA makes the final approval decision before providing a loan number.
7(a) small loan
The 7(a) small loan is similar in many ways to the standard 7(a) loans, but it’s meant for businesses that need smaller amounts of funding to get off the ground or expand.
The maximum loan amount is $350,000. Their turnaround time and eligibility decision process are the same as standard 7(a) loans. The SBA guarantees 85% of loans up to $150,000 and 75% of loans over that amount. Collateral is not required for loans under $50,000. The lender follows its collateral policy for loans greater than $50,000.
Applicants can usually expect a decision in two to 10 business days.
SBA Express loan
The SBA express loan is built for speed—sometimes, entrepreneurs need funding ASAP.
The maximum amount for an express loan is $500,000, and an application will be responded to in 36 hours or less. These loans are 50% guaranteed by the SBA. Only lenders with SBA Express authority can issue these loans, and the lender makes all eligibility, collateral, and credit decisions under delegated authority.
7(a) Export Trade Finance
The SBA has 3 core 7(a) international trade finance programs geared towards helping small businesses be competitive in export markets.
Export express loan
The export express loan was specifically created as a streamlined option for businesses in the export industry or those looking to develop an export operation. It has many similar features to an SBA Express loan, but provides a higher guarantee to mitigate international credit risk.
The loans, with a maximum amount of $500,000, have a breakneck turnaround time of just 24 hours or less. Similar to SBA Express, lLenders make all eligibility and collateral decisions through delegated authority. The SBA guarantee is 90% for loans of $350,000 or less and 75% for larger loans. This funding can take the form of a term loan, or a revolving line of credit that can last up to seven years.
Export working capital loan
Also tailored for exporters, the export working capital loan is meant to fund working capital for businesses that generate export sales.
These loans can range up to $5 million, and the SBA guarantee is 90%. Eligibility decisions are made by the SBA or lenders who have delegated EWCP authority. Unlike other 7(a) loans, there is no maximum interest limit imposed by the SBA for export working capital loans. The decision turnaround time is five to 10 business days.
Collateral is required, usually in the form of export inventory and personal guarantees from a business’ owners. This loan can take the form of a term loan, or a revolving line of credit for three years or less.
International trade loan
International trade loans are SBA 7(a) loans aimed at businesses that want to grow their export side or need to modernize their operation to handle foreign competition.
The maximum loan amount is $5 million, and the eligibility decisions, turnaround time, and SBA guarantee are the same as for export working capital loans. For international trade loans, the loan maturity is set at 10 years for permanent working capital.
Equipment and machinery, loans mature up to 10 years or at the useful life of the equipment (not to surpass 15 years). Real estate loans mature at 25 years.
7(a) CAPLines
CAPLines of credit are a form of a standard SBA 7(a) loan that works as a line of credit instead of a loan.
Remember, a business line of credit is a form of financing that allows businesses to access money as expenses arise, similar to a credit card. With a business loan, on the other hand, a full amount is disbursed upon approval, and repayments are made based on the approved amount.
The loan maximums, terms, and decision process of CAPLines of credit are the same as for standard 7(a) loans. The SBA offers four types of CAPLines:
Working Capital CAPLine
A line of credit for businesses that are unable to meet credit standards for other long-term financing, typically businesses that provide credit to other businesses, and in which repayment is based on assets.
To be eligible for a Working Capital CAPLine, your business must generate accounts receivable (not notes receivable), and/or have inventory.
Contract CAPLine
A line of credit aimed at financing businesses that work on a contract basis. Rather than permanent working capital, this specific type of working capital is meant to be used for working capital for one or more specific projects.
Builders CAPLine
A line of credit for small general contractors or builders that construct or renovate residential or commercial buildings. To be eligible for the Builders CAPline, you must be a construction contractor or a homebuilder with demonstrated experience in profitable construction or renovation.
Seasonal CAPLine
The Seasonal CAPLine is a line of credit meant for businesses that operate on a seasonal basis to help provide working capital for the busy season. To be eligible, your business must have been in operation for at least one year, and be able to demonstrate a pattern of seasonal activity. You can’t use this working capital to weather downturn or slow seasons, and must use it to finance increases in accounts receivable, inventory, and associated labor costs.
7(a) Working Capital Pilot (WCP) Program
Launched on August 1, the WCP pilot program offers monitored lines of credit to businesses through the SBA 7(a) loan program.
Through the pilot program, eligible businesses can receive a line of credit up to $5 million. In order to qualify, businesses must operate in industries like manufacturing, wholesale, or professional services and have at least one year of operating history.
Businesses applying must be able to provide financial statements, accounts receivable, and accounts payable, as well as regular inventory reports.
The loan guarantee is the same as regular SBA (7a) loans.
Eligibility requirements for SBA 7(a) loans
Most U.S. small businesses can qualify for an SBA 7(a) loan, but there are a few exceptions such as nonprofits and certain restricted membership organizations. The SBA also requires that business owners meet basic criteria around location, profit status, size, citizenship and access to other financing.
SBA loans are meant to support long-term small business growth.
Loan maturity terms, as a result, are based on the ability to repay, the purpose of the loan, and the life of assets financed by the loan. Loan maturity refers to how long it takes for a borrower to repay the loan. At the end of your loan maturity term, you’ll make the final repayment.
The maximum maturities for SBA 7(a) loans are as follows.
The maximum maturity for real estate is 25 years.
The maximum maturity for equipment is 10 years.
The maximum maturity for working capital or inventory is 10 years.
SBA 7(a) loans used to buy fixed assets, like real estate or equipment, carry a maturity limited to the economic life of those assets, not to exceed 25 years. Fixed assets, which also include commercial property or furniture, are assets meant for long-term use that cannot be quickly converted to cash.
SBA 7(a) loan rates
With SBA 7(a) loans, the interest rate is set by the lender. In most cases, the lender will determine a rate based on creditworthiness, loan amount and repayment terms, and the applicant either accepts or rejects that rate. In many cases, you might be able to further negotiate the rate with your lender.
Current SBA loan interest rates are tied to the prime rate, which can be fixed or variable. As of June 11, 2025, the prime rate is 7.5%. The SBA allows lenders to add a markup, but caps how high the rate can go.
Want to see exact SBA rate ranges for the current month, caps, and how your rate is calculated?
Along with interest rates, you should expect to pay a guarantee fee to the lender for SBA 7(a) loans. This fee will be based on the size of the loan and the type of 7(a) loan you apply for. Guarantee fees for 7(a) loans for fiscal year 2025 range between 2% and 3.5%.
Notably, the SBA expressly prohibits lenders from charging most other fees, including processing, origination, application, renewal, and brokerage fees.
Lenders are, however, allowed to charge a flat fee of $2,500 per loan.
Curious what you might pay on an SBA 7(a) loan? Use our SBA Loan Calculator to estimate your payments!
How to apply for an SBA 7(a) loan
While hundreds of different lenders offer 7(a) loans, the process is fairly standardized by the SBA.
The SBA 7(a) loan application process involves three main steps: choosing the right loan, gathering financial documents, and submitting your application to a qualified lender. Depending on the loan type, approval timelines can range from a few days to several weeks.
The requirements for SBA 7(a) Loans can be stringent. Maybe you feel it isn’t right for your business at this time! Here are some potential alternatives to SBA 7(a) loans to explore:
SBA Microloans- These loans are smaller, and geared to newer businesses, but come with less strict borrower requirements.
SBA Express Loan - These loans don’t require SBA review, which means you could work with a lender who can provide you funds you need quickly, with slightly less requirements than an SBA 7(a) loan.
Lendio - While you can apply for an SBA loan with Lendio’s quick application, we can also connect you with online lenders to offer other flexible financing options that work for your business.
Ready to apply for an SBA 7(a) loan?
Apply for an SBA loan with Lendio’s quick application. We’ll connect you with the right lender for your situation, and can, on average, get you funded with a 7(a) small loan in less than 30 days.
Social media can be a game-changer for small businesses—if you know how to use it. This guide covers everything from choosing the right platforms to creating engaging content and growing your audience. With actionable tips and proven strategies, you’ll learn how to turn likes and follows into real business results.
Email marketing is one of the most powerful tools for small businesses—when done right. This guide covers everything from building your email list to crafting engaging campaigns that drive results. With actionable tips and step-by-step guidance, you’ll learn how to connect with your audience, boost sales, and grow your business through email.
Digital marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This guide simplifies the essentials, from building an online presence to leveraging social media, email, and SEO. Packed with practical tips and step-by-step strategies, it’s designed to help small businesses succeed in the digital world without a big budget or a full marketing team.
Let’s face it. There’s a lot of bad marketing advice out there. Or great advice that’s far too in-depth for a small business owner who isn’t looking to start a full-time career in marketing. We created this guide to cut through the clutter and provide you with principles, direction and the applicable step-by-step how-tos to get the job done.
Your brand is more than just a logo—it’s the heart of your business. This guide walks you through the essentials of small business branding, from defining your identity and crafting your message to building a strong, lasting impression. With clear steps and actionable advice, you’ll create a brand that resonates with customers and sets your business apart.
Hiring for small businesses doesn’t have to be complicated. Your business can achieve success when you understand relevant legal requirements and find the right job candidates for your open positions. This comprehensive guide covers everything from finding the right employees to hire to employee training and development.
Your best customers are your biggest growth opportunity. This guide breaks down customer marketing strategies tailored for small businesses, helping you turn happy customers into loyal advocates. From building relationships to leveraging referrals, discover actionable steps to maximize lifetime value and drive sustainable growth.
From selecting the right franchise opportunity to navigating the financial aspects, this step-by-step resource equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge and strategies needed to thrive in the world of franchising.
Have a business idea but not sure where to start? Our comprehensive guide to starting a business has everything you need to know. From legal requirements to market research, we’ve got you covered.
Running and growing a business is no easy feat. Our guide to running a business has everything you need to know to keep things running smoothly. From managing employees to marketing your business, we’ve got you covered.
Take your business to the next level with our Accounting Guide. Master the language of numbers, understand financial statements, and make informed decisions based on accurate financial data. Discover the power of sound financial management.
Master the art of cash flow management with our comprehensive guide. Learn strategies to optimize your cash flow, forecast revenue and expenses, and keep your business financially stable. Take control of your finances and achieve long-term success.
Streamline your billing process with our Invoicing Guide. Learn how to create professional invoices, manage client payments, and maintain a healthy cash flow for your business. Get paid faster and efficiently track your revenue.
A great marketing strategy is the foundation of small business success. This guide takes you step-by-step through defining your goals, identifying your audience, and choosing the right channels. With practical tips and clear direction, you’ll build a tailored strategy that drives growth and delivers measurable results.
Navigate the complex world of taxes with our Tax Preparation Guide. From understanding tax obligations to maximizing deductions and filing quarterly taxes, we’ll help you stay compliant and minimize your tax burden. Unlock the secrets of tax success for your business.
Stay on top of your business finances with our Bookkeeping Guide. Learn the art of tracking income and expenses, maintaining financial records, and keeping your books in order. Unlock financial success with our expert tips.
Need help securing funding for your business? Our business loans guide simplifies the financing process, explains key terms, and walks you through your loan options.