Best Small Business Loans Of September 2023

Consider these tips when comparing small business loans:

• Where possible, prequalify. Some business financing lenders offer a prequalification process. This means prospective borrowers can share details about their financing needs, revenue and other relevant information to find out what loan amounts, rates and repayment terms they may qualify for. This process typically only requires a soft credit inquiry, which has no impact on your credit score.
• Determine how you want to receive your funds. Two of the most common ways you can receive and access your business funds are through a lump-sum payment or on an as-needed basis. If you want to receive your funds up front, choose a traditional working capital or term loan. However, if you want to use funds only as you need them, consider a business line of credit.
• Consider the repayment terms and flexibility. Each business financing lender has its own repayment structures. While some types of financing require monthly payments, others may require daily or weekly payments. Take this into account when choosing your preferred lender and business loan.
• Look out for additional fees. Some lenders offer fee-free business loans that don’t require borrowers to pay origination fees, late payment fees, prepayment penalties or any other common loan costs. However, this is not always the case. Be sure to confirm a lender’s fee structure when shopping for the best terms. Factor in additional fees into your decision-making process.
• Evaluate the lender’s customer support options. If you’ve found a lender that’s prepared to offer the money you need at acceptable terms, consider the lender’s support options before signing the loan agreement. Customer support can make a huge difference down the line if you encounter issues with repayment. Research the lender’s customer service resources and read reviews to make sure it’s a good fit.

• OnDeck – Best for Short-term Loans
• Lendio – Best for Lender Comparison
• Peak Capital Funding– Best for Quick Approvals
• QuickBridge – Best for Fast Funding
• American Express® Business Line of Credit– Best for Lines of Credit
• BlueVine – Best for Flexible Lines of Credit
• National Funding – Best for Small to Mid-Sized Business
• Fundbox– Best for Quick Approvals
• TD Bank – Best for Healthcare Professionals
• Funding Circle – Best for Established Business
• Biz2Credit – Best for Loan Option

Just as certain types of loans are more appropriate for certain businesses, some lenders may be better suited to your business than others. Consider these factors to choose a small business loan:

• Lender reputation. Check online reviews so you’re aware of any red flags or potential issues before you sign on the dotted line. If you plan to work with a local bank or credit union, check with other local business owners to see which institutions have the best reputation.
• Qualification requirements. Most small business loans are underwritten based on the business owner’s personal credit score and are personally guaranteed. The minimum credit score required to qualify for a small business loan depends on the lender and the type of loan. So, it’s generally a good idea to check your personal credit score and then research each lender to compare minimum credit score requirements.
• Available loan amounts. Loan amounts vary by lender and loan type. Before choosing a small business lender, evaluate your business’ borrowing needs and shop for a loan that fits those parameters.
• Underwriting and funding speed. The amount of time it takes to process an application and receive funds varies widely by lender and loan type. In general, it can take anywhere from a couple of days (in the case of a merchant cash advance) to several months (for an SBA loan) to receive funds after submitting an application. If you need a loan quickly, choose a loan type and lender that can meet those time constraints.
• Annual percentage rate. APRs also vary by loan type and lender, but generally range anywhere from 5% to 99%. The most creditworthy applicants qualify for the lowest rates, but some lenders are more competitive than others.
• Additional costs. Many lenders charge origination fees that cover the costs of processing applications and underwriting loans. Likewise, some lenders charge prepayment penalties for borrowers who opt to pay off their loans early, while others charge draw fees on lines of credit. However, borrowers should not be charged application fees, and any fees levied prior to loan approval are a red flag.