What documents are required to apply for a short-term business loan?

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Whether you own a startup or an established business, a short-term business loan can provide the funds you need to cover unexpected costs or take advantage of a time-sensitive opportunity.

Applying for a short-term business loan typically requires several key documents, and being prepared can make the process easier, improving your chance of approval.

Updated business plan

A business plan is a written document that describes your company, what it does, how it will use the loan and how it plans to make money.

Having a business plan shows lenders that you’re organized and have a good sense of your business’s operations. It also lets them see how you’ll make the money you need to repay the loan.

When writing your business plan, be realistic. Don’t assume you’ll generate massive profits because lenders will think you’re unrealistic and may result in a loan denial. Also, make sure to acknowledge and address potential risks. This will show the lender that you understand your industry.

Where to get help writing a business plan

Writing a business plan can be tricky. Thankfully, there are many resources available for people who need help.

SCORE is a Virginia-based nonprofit organization that works with the U.S. Small Business Administration. It offers help and resources to companies nationwide. One such resource is a business plan template you can use to guide you as you write your business plan. You can also work with a SCORE mentor to get personalized help. The Small Business Administration also assists businesses, including information on writing a business plan.

Bank statements

The primary thing a lender cares about when determining whether to lend you money is whether you’ll repay the loan. That means lenders will want to analyze your company’s financial situation to make sure it can handle repayment.

Lenders will look at the bank statement for your business bank account to see how much money is in the account and how much you usually spend per month. They’ll also note any unusual expenses. Be ready to provide the last few statements for each bank account your business has.

Income statements

Lenders will also want to look closely at your company’s income statements. Even if you have a lot of cash in the bank, spending more than you make is a bad sign and could lead to business loan default.

Lenders will examine your income statement to ensure your revenue is stable or growing rather than shrinking. They’ll also make sure that your income is sufficient to handle payments on a new loan.

Personal and business tax statements

Many lenders will also ask for recent tax return information. They can ask for both your personal and company tax documents.

Expect to need your business’s tax return showing revenues and expenses and Schedule L of Form 1120 showing your company’s balance sheet. These documents will let the lender understand your company’s performance over the past few years.

The lender may also ask for your personal tax documents, especially if you’re running a new company and have to offer a personal guarantee. Be ready to provide your Form 1040 showing your full tax return details and Schedule C, which details your income from the business if you’re a sole proprietor.

How does a lender use annual revenue to determine business loan eligibility?

Consistent revenue is a key business loan requirement. Banks and credit unions typically require at least $250,000 a year, while online lenders may only require $100,000 for a conventional business loan.

Traditional funding options will prioritize revenue and profitability figures on balance sheets and tax returns. A good debt service coverage ratio also increases the likelihood of loan approval. This ratio compares available operating income with current debt obligations.

Business licenses and permits

Be ready to provide your business formation documents and any relevant licenses or permits when you apply for a short-term business loan. For example, if you run a restaurant, have your health inspection certificates, permits and food service licenses ready.

This will help the lender confirm that your company is legitimate and that you comply with local law.

Additional business and financial documentation

On top of the above documents, be ready to provide some or all of the following to your lender:

• Your driver’s license
• Your Social Security number
• Franchise agreements (if applicable)
• A current list of accounts receivable
• A list of current debts
• Projected financial statements for the next year

Bottom line

Applying for a short-term business loan can help your company get the money that it needs, but the process can involve a lot of paperwork. Make sure you have the required documents, such as a business plan, bank statements, an income statement and tax statements.

Additionally, a personal guarantee from the business owner may be necessary. Having all of the required documents ready in advance and understanding the criteria for loan approval can make the loan application process smoother and increase the chances of getting the funding you need.

Frequently asked questions

• How hard is it to get a business loan?

  Every lender sets its own business loan requirements, and some lenders focus on people with less-than-perfect credit. That means it generally isn’t too hard to get a business loan unless you have very bad credit or your company is quite new. In those situations, you may have trouble finding a loan and almost certainly have to offer a personal guarantee. If you find yourself in that spot, try working with a lender that you already have a relationship with, such as a bank you have accounts with. Or apply for a type of loan specifically aimed at borrowers with bad credit.

• What documents will I need to submit when applying for a short-term business loan?

  Common documents you may need to have ready before applying include a business plan, bank statements, personal and business tax statements, business formation documents, licenses and permits, a current list of accounts receivable, a list of current debts and projected financial statements for the next year. You’ll also need to submit personal identification and your Social Security number.

• What is the role of a business plan and loan proposal in the loan application process?

  A business plan may be necessary when applying for a short-term business loan. It should include a company overview, a funding request, a market analysis, a financial analysis, products or services and an operations plan. The loan proposal outlines the purpose of the loan, the requested amount and how the funds will be used.

• What is the relevance of collateral in qualifying for a business loan?

  Collateral is typically required when applying for a business loan. It acts as a guarantee that the loan will be repaid and can help increase a business’s borrowing options. The amount of collateral required depends on factors such as credit history, industry and intended use of the loan.