Archive for the ‘Business’ Category

When Bad Credit Spoils Your Chances At A Small Business Loan

Thursday, August 26th, 2010

Bad credit is one of the main reasons for bank loan denial. A credit score lower than 580 will most likely ruin your chances for a business loan. Multiple credit checks also lessens your chances for approval. And of course, a recent file for bankruptcy will ensure denial on your request.Fortunately, there is no reason for despair if you belong to this group of people. There are now available alternatives for getting a small business loan, regardless of your bad credit. It is important, however, that you understand your circumstances before jumping into these alternative means for a business loan. You can opt for an unsecured personal loan in such cases. But before you do, consider these factors first. One, how much do you need as a business loan? Factor in the numbers and come to a close estimate of how much you really need. Two, how much can pay each month. You have to note that personal business loans often have higher interest rates per month and if you’re not careful, you might become more in debt than you actually were, before the business loan. And three, will you be making minimum payments? Avoid making minimum payments because it actually costs more in the long run.A business cash advance is also one way of securing the money you need. A small business loan through cash advance is  relatively an easy process to go through as compared to borrowing money from a bank. Most small business, even if they do have good credit, have often little asset and property. This is what makes business cash advances a good alternative for small entrepreneurs in need of immediate money. The only important thing your business should have is access to credit card services (i.e. you accept credit cards for transactions). You just need to have your business’ credit scores established. The best way to do this is to separate your personal credit from your business credit. It is recommended that you control most, if not all, of your business credit needs from only one of two credit card service providers so you have better chances at getting approved quickly. Lastly, your business will need to have gained $2,500 to $4,000 as minimum credit card sales per month.Most cash advance providers base the amount of business loans by average monthly credit card sales, and of course, your actual need for capital. A business cash advance as a business loan is recommendable because the processing time for approval of your business loan can be as short as 3 days. Since newly opened small  businesses encounter a lot of time constraints with suppliers and clients, easy and immediate access to additional funding is always a plus. Furthermore, cash advance as a small business loan now comes easy with the help of the internet. You can apply for a business cash advance online and have it approved the next day. The business loan will be directly deposited into your account once it is approved.Use your small business loan to purchase new equipment, marketing, pay debt or taxes, or pay the payroll. Banks and big lending companies are now not the only way of getting a small business loan for your immediate business needs. Fast, online cash advance is now the new means of making your business grow and compete in whatever market you are thriving on.

How a Business Line of Credit Should Be Used

Wednesday, August 25th, 2010

Often, entrepreneurs ask how a business LOC should be used. In previous articles we have primarily focused on the different types of business lines of credit and how they can be used in conjunction with startup operations of a business. However, in this article, we will shift our focus on how a business line of credit is usually used in the course of business for company that has been established. Typically, business LOC and other revolving credit facilities are used to finance the ongoing inventory purchases, payroll, and other short term needs of a business. The long term acquisition of financing equipment, real estate, and other large purchases is typically complete through the acquisition of traditional business loans or SBA backed loans.

 

The use a business line of credit for the development of a business is most appropriate for businesses that are not overly capitally intensive. This includes professional practices or small businesses that do not require large equipment purposes. Again, a business LOC is a fantastic credit facility for those seeking to establish a small business because it gives you the flexibility needed to draw down principal balances as needed rather than having to take on a lump sum loan. Professional practices and other service related businesses can startup and survive using a line of credit because there are no goods changing hands. Unless you a retailing business or distribution business, you may want to investigate using a traditional business loan versus a business line of credit in order to launch the operations of your business.

 

As stated above, revolving credit facilities are often used for businesses that have ongoing cash flow needs rather than large scale purchases. As we have stated time and time again, speaking to a CPA can assist you in determining which type of credit facility is most appropriate for you.

Cash Flow Based Business Loans

Sunday, August 15th, 2010

Much like our discussion regarding unsecured business loans, this article will focus on business loans that are primarily secured by the cash flow of your business or your personal income. When looking for a business loan, it is imperative to understand how much of a business loan you can afford to undertake. This includes not only your current income, but also a projection of your anticipated income that will accrue through the use of debt proceeds. The most important aspect is to look at your current income. This is also the most important business metric that a bank or finance company will look at when determining whether or not you are a worthy credit risk. Actual income is far more important than expected income. With that said, you need to ask yourself some very important questions when determining the amount of debt you are seeking. These questions include, but are not limited to:

 

 

When a bank looks at an existing business that is looking for a  business loan – they primarily focus on your businesses previous ability to generate positive cash flow. This is because banks want to know to be well aware of your current ability to repay any business loan that they grant to you. It should be noted, that in most circumstances, your business loan’s interest is deductible as a business expense. However, the principal of the loan is not. This must be paid out of your after-tax cash flow. This is why, especially for small businesses, the cash flow statement is extremely important. Again, if you are having issues making these determinations then it is imperative that you speak to your certified public accountant. Your CPA can assist you greatly in making a determination of your business loan needs, your ability to repay the loan, and your ability to secure a loan based on your current personal and business income.