Lending Library

Being unable to make payments on a business loan is not a new phenomenon. Scores of hard-working business owners have found themselves in situations where they couldn’t fulfill their financial obligations. In some cases, they were late on payments. Other times, the payments were missed altogether. Some lenders are more tolerant of delinquency than others, but at a certain point, late and missed payments result in a default. 

Read to better understand how a default on a business loan typically plays out and how it could affect you.

Default vs delinquency: Understanding the difference.

Often, the terms ‘default’ and ‘delinquency’ are used interchangeably, but they represent two distinctly different stages of loan repayment trouble. Delinquency refers to missing a single scheduled payment. It’s a bit like stumbling, but you still have a chance to regain your balance. You usually have a grace period to make up the missed payment before the lender takes further action.

On the other hand, default is when multiple payments have been missed, typically over a period of 90 to 180 days. This is equivalent to falling flat on your face. At this stage, the lender assumes that the borrower is unable or unwilling to meet the loan obligations and may take legal action to recover the owed money.

So what happens if you default? That depends, as the consequences of business loan default vary depending on how you guaranteed the financing. Let’s look at three possibilities:

1. Unsecured loans 

This type of loan doesn’t require any type of collateral from the borrower in order to secure the funds (hence the name). Lenders are understandably reluctant to offer these loans as they involve higher risk. To compensate for this lack of collateral, unsecured loans usually have lower dollar amounts, higher interest rates, and shorter repayment terms.

Additionally, lenders usually require you to make a personal guarantee to receive an unsecured loan. While this isn’t technically collateral, there’s a similar impact if you default on an unsecured loan. The lender will come after your personal assets to recoup the money involved with the financing.

2. Secured loans 

While unsecured loans often need a personal guarantee, lenders take it to a more specific level with secured loans—you’ll be asked to provide collateral that meets or exceeds the value of the loan. Popular examples of collateral include homes, boats, vehicles, real estate, inventory, machinery, and accounts receivables.

In the case of a default, some lenders may be willing to work with you to find a solution. But if you’re ultimately unable to meet your payment obligations, the promised collateral will become the property of the lender. The lender will need to put time and effort into selling the asset before they actually get paid, which is why collateral must often be worth more than the actual value of the loan.

3. Secured SBA loans 

If you default on a SBA loan, your first interactions will be with the lender who funded the loan. They’ll begin the collection process outlined in the loan agreement, which usually includes the lender taking possession of any collateral attached to the loan.

At this point, the lender submits a claim to the SBA. Because the agency will have guaranteed a portion of your loan, they’ll pay the lender that amount.

The remaining debt is then transferred to the SBA. The agency will request payment from you to cover their expenses. If you’re financially able, you can resolve the situation immediately. You can also make an offer in compromise, where you explain any extenuating circumstances and request that the SBA let you settle the debt with a smaller payment than is officially required.

Assuming the SBA accepts your payment or offer, the case will be closed. When a resolution can’t be found, however, the agency submits your account to collections officials at the Treasury Department. This phase is where things can get serious, as the Treasury Department has the authority to garnish wages and take other actions to get the money they are owed.

Additional impacts of a business loan default.

The simple act of missing loan payments hurts your business credit score, so a default makes an even more substantial impact. Lenders will likely regard you as a higher risk in the future, leading to higher interest rates and shorter repayment terms on future financing.

Your personal credit score might also be affected, depending on how you set up your business. Some structures offer liability protection to owners. For example, a limited liability company (LLC) provides shelter from defaults. Sole proprietorships, on the other hand, leave the owner completely responsible for such failures.

While no small business owner ever applies for financing with the intent of defaulting, it’s wise to consider that possibility as you set up your business. Your strategy at the onset can potentially save a lot of headaches and financial losses down the road.

Avoiding default on a business loan: strategies to consider.

Avoiding a default on a business loan requires proactive planning, regular financial monitoring, and prudent business management. Here are some strategies you may want to consider:

1. Improve your cash flow - Financial health of a business largely depends upon its cash flow. Implement strategies to improve cash flow like prompt invoicing, offering discounts for quick payments, and managing inventory efficiently.
2. Regularly monitor your finances - Keep a close eye on your cash flow and financial forecasts. Regular monitoring will help you identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
3. Maintain good relations with your lender - Maintain open lines of communication with your lender. If you foresee any financial hiccups, inform your lender in advance. They may work with you to adjust the payment terms.
4. Consider loan refinancing - If your current loan repayments are becoming difficult to manage, loan refinancing might be an option. It could help you secure lower monthly payments, but be aware that this could mean you'll be paying more in total over a longer period of time.
5. Seek financial advice - If you're struggling to manage your business finances, seek advice from a financial advisor. They can assist you in reviewing your financial situation and suggest ways to manage your debts effectively.

Remember, business financial management requires consistent attention and action. By adopting these strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of defaulting on your loan.

What to do after your loan goes into default.

If your business loan has already gone into default, don't panic. There are still steps you can take to mitigate the situation:

1. Communicate with your lender - Reach out to your lender immediately. Transparency about your financial situation can lead to a cooperative and understanding approach from the lender. They may provide options for loan restructuring or deferment.
2. Consult a financial advisor - This is a critical step. A financial advisor can guide you on how to navigate this predicament. They may suggest ways to consolidate your debt or advise on possible legal implications.
3. Evaluate your financial situation - Take a hard look at your finances with the goal of freeing up resources to repay your debt. Identify areas where you can cut costs and increase revenue. 
4. Consider selling assets - If you have assets that you don't need and can easily liquidate, consider selling them to pay off your debt.
5. Negotiate with the lender - If your financial situation is dire and there's no way you can pay back the loan in the near future, consider negotiating with the lender. They may agree to reduce the debt or modify the terms to fit your current ability to repay.
6. Explore legal options - If negotiations fail or aren't an option, you might want to explore legal options like bankruptcy. However, this should be your last resort, as it would severely impact your credit score and reputation. Always consult with a legal advisor before choosing this path.

Remember, defaulting on a loan is serious, but not the end of the world. There are always options available to get your business back on track.

While landing a big deal might sound amazing for your business, if you don’t have the funds available to support production, you’ll stretch yourself too thin. It’s not uncommon for companies to have large sums of accounts receivable invoices that aren’t accessible. The business must meet its obligations and collect the money from the business before that revenue is actually recognized.

Fortunately, there are options for businesses to access some of the money that’s wrapped up in unpaid invoices—and invoice factoring is one of these options. Learn more about invoice factoring below.

What is invoice factoring? 

Invoice factoring is a process that enables businesses to get immediate cash by selling their outstanding invoices. 

When a business issues an invoice to a customer, it may take up to 90 days for the customer to pay. With invoice factoring, a factoring business can purchase the invoice, pay the business for it, and then collect the payment from the customer. This way, the business gets the funds it needs without having to wait for the customer to pay, and only pays a small fee to the factoring company for the service.

What are the benefits of invoice factoring?

Depending upon your customer base and the state of your account receivables, invoice factoring is usually much easier and faster than securing a conventional loan. What’s more, the factor is more interested in the creditworthiness of your customers than whether or not your credit is perfect. So even if your credit score is below average, you could still qualify for this type of financing, if the other aspects of your business are strong.

Some factoring companies specialize in specific industries and business types. Finding a factor that specializes in your industry could improve your chances of approval.

How does invoice factoring work? 

Let's delve into the nuts and bolts of how invoice factoring actually functions in the business world.

1. Invoice generation - The first step of invoice factoring starts with your business generating and issuing invoices after delivering products or services to your customers.
2. Selling the invoice: - Next, instead of waiting for your customer to fulfill the invoice payment, you sell your invoice to a factoring company.
3. Factoring company pays - The factoring company reviews the invoice and if approved, pays you a significant percentage (typically 70% to 90%) of the invoice value immediately.
4. Customer payment - The factoring company then takes over the collection process. Your customer is informed about the new payment arrangement, and they will pay the invoice directly to the factoring company.
5. Receiving the remaining balance - Once the customer pays the invoice in full to the factoring company, you'll receive the remaining balance of the invoice, minus the factoring fee.

It's essential to note that the process can vary between different factoring companies. Always make sure to understand the terms and conditions before engaging in invoice factoring.

Factoring example

Let's consider a practical example to better understand the concept of invoice factoring:

Suppose you run a wholesale business, and you have issued an invoice of $10,000 to a supermarket. The payment terms are net 90 days, but you need the funds immediately to restock your inventory. Instead of waiting for the supermarket to pay the invoice, you decide to use a factoring company.

You approach a factoring company and sell them your invoice. The factoring company reviews the invoice and agrees to buy it. They pay you 80% of the invoice amount up front, which is $8,000. This allows you to restock your inventory and continue operating your business smoothly.

Once the supermarket pays the invoice, the factoring company receives the full $10,000. The factoring company then sends you the remaining 20% of the invoice ($2,000), but deducts a 3% factoring fee. So, you receive $1,700 ($2,000 - 3% of $10,000).

In the end, you received $9,700 of the $10,000 invoice and paid $300 for the factoring service, which enabled you to keep your business running without any cash flow problems during the 90 days you would have otherwise been waiting for payment.

How much does factoring invoices cost?

An important consideration when deciding whether a factoring loan is a good choice is the lender fee. While some factoring companies will charge small fees to buy your invoice (around 3%) others can take out larger amounts, ranging from 10% to 15%. In high-risk cases or when you’re working with predatory firms, they might take out 30% of the total invoice as their processing fee. 

As a business owner, you need to decide how much you can afford for invoice factoring. At what point will the fees related to the invoice purchase cut too deeply into your profit margins? By seeking the funds immediately instead of waiting for the invoice to get paid, you could end up losing more profits and limiting your growth.  

Is factoring invoices a good idea?

Like all financial decisions, there are pros and cons of opting for invoice factoring. Some of the benefits or drawbacks might weigh heavier on your business, depending on your current situation. 

Pros

• Lenders are less concerned about your credit score and company history. This could be a viable option if your business has poor credit or is just starting out. Instead, the lender focuses on the invoice itself and its likelihood of getting paid. 
• Your invoice will get paid quickly. You will receive the cash in seven to 10 days in most cases, giving you a boost to your cash flow to cover operating expenses. 
• You can return to the lender frequently, as you don’t have to worry about requalifying after your invoice gets paid. If you have another invoice that you want to be cashed, you can approach the factoring company a few days later. 
• You don’t need collateral. Your assets aren’t at risk because the lender doesn’t care as much about your company—they’re only focused on the invoice. 

Cons

• The fees can be expensive and will eat away at your profit margins. In the worst-case scenario, you could lose money on the invoice because of the fees. 
• Invoice factoring is typically for B2B companies. If your business works primarily with individuals, you may have a harder time getting funded. 
• Your customer relationship might be at risk. The factoring company will deal with the invoice collection process after they buy it from you. If the company is aggressive and unethical, your customers might not want to work with you again as a result. 
• Your customers could derail your financing. If your customers have a history of late payments or poor credit, then the factoring business might not want to cover your invoice. While the lender doesn’t care about your finances, they’re deeply concerned about your client’s standing.  

The option to use an invoice factoring company depends on the business you use. There are ethical companies that are happy to work with businesses of all industries and predatory factoring agencies that charge high fees and go after invoices aggressively. Do your research before making your choice. 

How to qualify for invoice factoring.

To qualify for invoice factoring, certain criteria must be met by businesses.

1. Volume of invoices - Factoring companies typically require a certain minimum amount of invoices. This may be a specific number or a total value.
2. Creditworthy customers - Since the factoring company will collect payment directly from your customers, they must be creditworthy. The factoring company will likely investigate your customers' credit history as part of their decision-making process.
3. B2B operations - Your business typically needs to be a B2B (business-to-business) operation. Factoring companies prefer businesses that issue invoices to other businesses, rather than B2C (business-to-consumer) businesses.
4. Unencumbered invoices - The invoices you want to factor must be free of any legal claims or encumbrances. This means that they cannot be pledged as collateral for another loan.
5. Industry - Some factoring companies only work with specific industries, while others are more flexible. It's important to verify that your business operates in an industry that the factoring company services.
6. Time in business - Some factoring companies require that your business has been operational for a certain length of time, although this is not always the case.

Remember, different factoring companies may have slightly different requirements, so it's essential to research and confirm the criteria for each prospective factoring company.

How to evaluate factoring companies.

Evaluating factoring companies involves several steps to ensure that you're choosing the right partner for your business. Here are some key aspects to consider:

1. Recourse vs. non-recourse factoring - Factoring can be either recourse or non-recourse. With recourse factoring, if your customer doesn't pay the invoice, you are responsible for repaying the amount to the factoring company. Non-recourse factoring means the factoring company assumes the risk if the customer fails to pay. While non-recourse factoring may seem more attractive, it usually comes with higher fees due to the increased risk for the factoring company.
2. Spot factoring and single-invoice factoring - Some factoring companies offer spot factoring or single-invoice factoring, allowing you to factor just one invoice at a time. This can be a great option if you need cash flow help only occasionally. However, keep in mind that the fees for spot factoring can be higher than if you commit to factoring a certain volume of invoices.
3. Factoring fees and advance rate - Understand the fees associated with the factoring service. They can range from 1% to 5% of the invoice value, depending on the factoring company and the risk involved. Also, look at the advance rate, which is the percentage of the invoice amount that you receive upfront. A higher advance rate can mean more immediate cash for your business.
4. Contract terms - Look closely at the contract terms. Some factoring companies require long-term contracts or a minimum volume of invoices, while others offer more flexibility.
5. Reputation and customer service - Research the factoring company’s reputation. Read reviews, check their Better Business Bureau rating, and ask for references. Additionally, consider their customer service. You want a factoring company that will respond promptly and professionally to your inquiries.
6. Industry experience - It's beneficial if the factoring company has experience in your industry. They will be more familiar with industry practices and any specific challenges that might come up.

By taking these factors into account, you can better evaluate factoring companies and choose the one that best fits your business's needs.

Invoice factoring vs. invoice financing.

It's easy to confuse invoice factoring with invoice financing as both methods involve using unpaid invoices to improve cash flow. However, there are key differences to understand.

Invoice factoring

As detailed above, invoice factoring involves a business selling its invoices to a factoring company at a discount. The factoring company then takes responsibility for collecting the invoice payments from the customers, freeing up the business from the time and effort of chasing these payments. The business receives immediate funds, which can be vital for maintaining smooth operational activities, especially for B2B companies.

Invoice financing

On the other hand, invoice financing is essentially a loan where the unpaid invoices serve as collateral. With invoice financing, the business retains control and responsibility for collecting the debts from its customers. The lender provides an advance of a portion of the invoice value (usually between 80% and 90%), and the business repays this advance plus fees once the customer has paid the invoice.

While both methods provide quick access to cash, they differ in terms of responsibility and risk. With invoice factoring, you relinquish control of your customer relationships to the factoring company, but you also rid yourself of the risk of non-payment. In contrast, with invoice financing, you retain control of your customer relationships, but you also hold the risk of non-payment as you're responsible for repayment of the advance regardless of whether your customer pays their invoice. As with all financial decisions, it's crucial for businesses to understand these differences and evaluate which option aligns best with their needs and circumstances.

Types of invoice factoring.

There are three types of factoring options you should be aware of:

1. Full-service factoring – The factor assumes full responsibility for and control of collecting the debt, even if the customer never pays the invoice. The factor assumes all the risk. As you might expect, this type of factoring carries with it a higher discount when they purchase your invoices.
2. Recourse factoring – If your customer doesn’t pay the invoice, you are obligated to buy it back. Recourse factoring allows you to sell your invoices at a small discount and is great if your customers have a history of paying on time.
3. Spot factoring – Spot factoring, also called single-invoice factoring, follows the same process as invoice factoring except you are selecting a single outstanding invoice to factor rather than a group of invoices.

When looking for a factor, be aware that they are not all alike. Interest rates and terms can vary greatly. It’s easy to find this type of financing online. Lendio‘s network partners with multiple factoring and other financing companies to compare multiple offers so you’re sure you get the best deal on your next business move.

There are many ways to become an entrepreneur. You can launch your own business from the ground up, you can partner with someone else, or you can even buy a small business outright.

Buying a small business can create a unique stream of income and help you to launch your new career—you just need to know where to find them and how to invest. 

Buying a business, as opposed to starting something from scratch, can streamline your path to profitability. It can also be less risky, in some cases, if the brand is already successful and established.

If you’re considering purchasing an existing small business, this guide will help. Learn where to buy a small business, as well as the pros and cons of different business types.

How to buy a small business

1. Figure out what type of business you want to buy

2. Where to find small businesses to buy

3. Do you want to buy an existing business or a franchise?

4. Know yourself before you buy a business

5. When is the right time to buy a business?

6. Understand why an existing business is up for sale

7. Decide on a business that fits your needs and resources

8. Creating a plan for buying a business

9. Do your due diligence

10. Financing your business acquisition

11. Closing the deal

12. Know the benefits of buying a business

13. Keep the downside in mind

Figure out what type of business you want to buy

Not all businesses are created equal. In fact, each one is unique and has its own value proposition and business model. The type of business you buy should align with your particular experience, skills, passions, and interests. 

If you’re passionate and knowledgeable about real estate, for example, a business in the real estate industry should be on your radar. You’ll be less likely to succeed if you’re new to real estate, unfamiliar with industry jargon, and what it takes to thrive. In addition, it’s essential that you agree with the business goals and be willing to work hard to achieve them. Otherwise you may be unmotivated to steer the venture toward success.

Where to find small businesses to buy

There are many ways to find small businesses to buy in your area or industry. You may want to try multiple methods to discover businesses so you can find the best option for your investing goals. 

• Deal directly with the business owner. Are you looking to acquire a smaller company or competitor in your field? Do you want to enter a new industry or market? One of the best places to buy a business is directly through the other business owner. Do your research, and when you find a business that you want to pursue further, reach out to the owner and discuss the opportunity of purchasing their business directly.
• Hire a business broker. Business brokers work to connect small businesses with potential buyers—and vice versa. Their job is to understand various industries and company values. They can also provide insight into which businesses to avoid and share context into the history of various organizations. 
• Find businesses online. Sites like BizBuySell and BizQuest allow small businesses to list their brands and connect with buyers. You can sort by industry, location, and even price. This is a great place to get a feel for your local markets and customer demand. 

You might also want to keep a lawyer on retainer to help negotiate the sale and handle various contracts related to the transition. This extra assurance can give you peace of mind and help you to protect your investment.

Do you want to buy an existing business or a franchise?

You don’t only have to look for small or local businesses to buy—it’s also possible to buy a franchise of an existing business and operate under that brand. Companies like McDonald’s, ACE Hardware, and Massage Envy rely on franchisees to buy into their businesses and operate companies on their own. 

Buying a franchise has its pros and cons, as explained by the Small Business Administration. One of the main benefits: support. There will be less decision-making because the brand and its processes are established and set. For example, if you decide to open an ACE Hardware, you’ll already know the brand’s color choices and the employees’ uniforms. You’ll also gain access to the company’s internal systems and marketing materials. 

While some people embrace the structure of opening a franchise, there are also limitations to what you can do. You can’t get creative with new products and must stick to established guidelines. This might not be ideal if you want to build a unique business or want more influence on the systems within the organization.

You can find franchises for sale across almost any industry or company size. Different franchises have different license fees and varying startup costs. For example, it costs more to build an Anytime Fitness than a PJ’s Coffee stand. Some franchises require $250,000 or more to get started, but others require much less. To explore different franchise opportunities and costs, look at sites like Franchise Direct or Franchise Gator to learn more. These sites can help you to find the best franchises to own based on your budget and goals.

Know yourself before you buy a business

You may be tempted to buy your favorite bar that can’t afford to stay open or invest in a bakery based on your passion for cake design—however, it’s important to be realistic about what you know and what you can handle. There are a few key factors to consider with your business choices:

• How much time do you have to run this business? Are you looking to acquire a company and run it day-to-day as a full-time job, or do you want to be a silent partner who is more hands-off? You may want to look into a business investment rather than exclusive ownership if you don’t plan to be involved in the operations of the company.  
• What is your expertise in the field? How much do you know about the industry, the current local market, and the business plan of the business you want to acquire? Think about the “cupcake bubble” of the past decade, where the market became too saturated with cupcake shops as the trend faded. You may need to spend some time learning about the industry before you enter it.  
• What is your expertise in business? Even if you have industry experience, you may need additional business acumen to succeed. Take steps to bolster your accounting, marketing, HR, and management expertise to prepare yourself to lead your employees to success. 
• How will you fund the investment? You can absolutely follow your dreams of becoming a business owner, but you need a funding plan first. Look into a loan to buy a business and other professional funding options—this way, you’ll have enough money to acquire the company and make any modifications needed.

You don't have to have an MBA or 10+ years of experience in a field to buy a business. However, you will need a plan to manage your finances, operations, and marketing as soon as the business becomes yours.

When is the right time to buy a business?

The right time to acquire an existing business is when you find one with a good labor pool, a strong customer base, established procedures, growing sales, and most importantly, positive cash flow. It should also be the type of business where you can leverage your strengths and your experience. Once you find what you’re looking for, get in contact with your attorney and your banker to thrash out the details.

Existing cash flow and a proven track record will make it easier for you to secure financing for the venture of your choice. You’ll have better access to cash flow once your customer base is good, and you have strong distributor and supplier relationships in place. All of these factors save you a lot of time and money. You may also be able to draw on the experience of the previous owners if they are willing to guide you as you take over the business.

Understand why an existing business is up for sale

Before you sign on the dotted line and purchase a business, determine why it’s on the market in the first place. Maybe the owner is ready to retire. Or perhaps there are serious issues with the business, like a damaged reputation or poor product line. Don’t be afraid to ask the current owners why they’re selling their venture and what challenges they’ve encountered over the years.

You should feel confident that you can solve these challenges or can find resources that can help you do so. Some of the most common challenges you might come across include a poor business plan, excessive business debt, location issues, branding confusion, outdated equipment, and staffing shortages. 

Take the time to learn as much as possible about the successes, failures, challenges, and opportunities of the business. In addition to the owner, consult current and former customers, employees, and competing businesses. They’ll provide you with an unbiased opinion of how the business is performing and why it’s for sale.

Decide on a business that fits your needs and resources

After you shop around and consider all your options, it’s time to make a decision. The right business will line up with your budget, goals, and resources. Once you hone in on the ideal venture, do the math and figure out the best size, location, sales strategy, and staffing needs.

If you know you’d like to make drastic changes, determine what resources you’ll need to implement them and how much they’ll cost you. Remember to think about the time and energy you’ll need to invest in addition to the monetary cost. 

The money, time, and energy you’ll have to invest will depend on the business type and your particular experience and connections. For example, if you’ve worked in real estate in the past and are purchasing a real estate business, you’ll have to invest less than you would if the industry is entirely new to you.

Creating a plan for buying a business

There’s no way to proceed confidently with a business purchase unless you have a plan. And the process of creating your plan will make it possible to determine whether or not the timing is right for you.

The best way to build your business plan is to answer questions related to your motivations and goals. Here are some possible questions to think about:

• What’s driving you to buy a business now?
• How much experience do you have in the industry?
• How passionate are you about the industry?
• What’s your mission statement?
• What’s your main objective?
• What are your primary strategies?
• What has your market analysis revealed?
• What has your competitor analysis revealed?
• What will your financial needs be?
• What are your financial projections?

You won’t have all the answers up front—research and review will be required for clear answers. But you should start the process now in order to proceed when you feel the time is right.

“Research and analyze your product, your market, and your objective expertise,” explains a business report from the Houston Chronicle. “Consider spending twice as much time researching, evaluating, and thinking as you spend actually writing the business plan. To write the perfect plan, you must know your company, your product, your competition, and the market intimately.”

Once you’ve compiled your business plan, you’ll be able to confirm your choices regarding timing and whether you should buy a business or take the franchise route. A business plan is a living, breathing thing—you’ll want to revisit it regularly to make sure it reflects your current situation and aligns with your future goals.

Do your due diligence

Due diligence is when you collect as much information as you can before you go ahead and purchase a business. It’s a good idea to work with professionals, like a lawyer and an accountant to make sure you have all your ducks in a row before you move forward.

While the accountant can help you with financials, an attorney may support you with negotiations and all the legalities of the purchase. Be prepared to sign a nondisclosure or confidentiality agreement and agree that you won’t reveal any confidential information you learn as you do your due diligence. In the event you decide to back out of the deal, this agreement will protect the seller. 

There is no shortage of documents and statements you’ll want to gather during the due diligence process. Several of the most important ones include: 

• Business licenses and permits - The business you’re interested in should already have all the licensees and permits it needs to operate legally. If the business is in a highly regulated industry (Ex: childcare) you won’t be able to stay open without them. 
• Organizational paperwork - This involves documents that state the business has been officially registered as an LLC or corporation. An LLC requires an articles of organization, while a corporation must come with an articles of incorporation. A certificate of good standing from the secretary of state is crucial as well. 
• Zoning laws - Make sure that the business operates in accordance with all zoning laws. Some localities impose serious restrictions on where certain businesses can and cannot be located. 
• Environmental regulations - There are many environmental regulations for small businesses set forth by the Clean Air Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, Pollution Prevention Act, and more. The business you purchase should be in accordance with them. 
• Letter of intent - Also known as an LOI, the letter of intent is written by the seller after you’ve agreed on a price, as well as which assets and liabilities will be included. The conditions of the sale should also be outlined in the LOI. 
• Business financials - You’ll need to work with an accountant to review a few years of various financial documents. Some of the most popular ones are tax returns, income statements, cash flow statements, balance sheets, and debt disclosures.
• Organizational chart - An organizational chart will come in handy as it will inform you of all of the current employees and how they relate to one another. Ideally, the chart will also include details on compensation, benefits, PTO, and management processes. 
• Other documents - The particular business and industry will determine any other important documents. Ask your accountant or attorney if there is any additional paperwork or forms you’ll need. 

Financing your business acquisition

Most small businesses close their doors for one reason or another within a few years of starting up. An existing company gives you the advantage of business systems that have been honed over time.

If you have the funds to make a 10-20 percent down payment, industry experience or business management skills, and good credit scores, an SBA loan would be ideal. If yours is a large business, you can apply to the big banks (this is one of the toughest sources of financing for small businesses to tap into).

On the plus side, it can be easier to get financing for an existing business than for one that has not yet proven itself profitable. Take the case of a reputable business with an asking price of $500,000, and steady yearly cash flows of $200,000. Match that with taking out a $300,000 loan to bankroll a startup, where forecasts may or may not be realized. A bank may be more prepared to fund the half-million deal if you have a realistic down payment, and if the company you're purchasing has historic income and adequate cash flow to service the debt.

Closing the deal

Last but not least, you’ll close the deal. After you’ve found the right business, performed your due diligence, agreed on a price, and collected all the capital you need, you can officially purchase the business. Here’s what’s involved in the closing process: 

• Bill of sale - The bill of sale will prove the sale of the venture and officially transfer the business assets and ownership to you. 
• Adjusted purchase price - This refers to the final cost of your purchase and includes rent, utilities, inventory, and other prorated expenses. 
• Lease - A lease is important if you plan to take over the current lease of the business. If you’d like to negotiate a new lease, be sure to work with the landlord and finalize its terms.
• Vehicle documents - Vehicle documents are key if your business will come with vehicles. You’ll need to work with the local DMV to transfer ownership. 
• Trademarks, copyrights, and patents - If you have negotiated for them,  when you purchase a business, every patent, copyright, trademark, and related form become yours. 
• Employment or consultation agreement - If the seller will help you through consulting services during the transition process or work as an employee, be sure to create an agreement. Additionally, if there are key employees, they should also be signing new employment agreements with your entity. 
• Franchise agreements - If the business follows a franchise model, franchise agreements will outline the rules and regulations you'll need to follow.

Know the benefits of buying a business

While you can start a business from scratch, investing in an already established venture comes with many benefits, including:

• Established brand and reputation – Buying an existing business comes with an established brand and reputation in the market. It takes time and effort to build a brand from scratch, and it can take years before you start seeing a significant return on investment. On the other hand, buying a business that already has a loyal customer base and a solid reputation in the industry means you can hit the ground running.
• Pre-existing customer base – Purchasing a business with an existing customer base is one of the biggest advantages of buying a business. A loyal customer base is the backbone of a successful business venture, and buying an existing business ensures that you have immediate access to this customer network. You can leverage these relationships to generate sales and build a stronger customer bae.
• Established processes and operations – When you buy an existing business, the processes and operations are already established. You don’t have to waste time and resources trying to figure out the best ways to run the business. Instead, you can focus on improving, streamlining, and optimizing those processes.
• Existing staff – Another significant advantage of buying a business is that it comes with a pre-existing workforce. You don’t have to recruit, hire, and train a new team from scratch. Instead, you can acquire a knowledgeable team that already knows the ins and outs of the business. Additionally, existing employees can be a source of valuable insight and knowledge.
• Proven financial track record – Buying an established business also means you have access to the business’s financial track record. You can analyze its revenue streams, profitability, and other financial metrics to determine the business’s overall health and profitability. You can also use this data to make informed decisions about how to grow and scale in the business.
• Financing flexibility – Along with a proven track record, you’ll have financing flexibility. When lenders and investors see you want to purchase a business with a successful track record, they’ll be more likely to lend you money. There’s no need to prove your business concept or potential worth.
• Access to intellectual property - As the new business owner, if you purchased them, you’ll enjoy all the rights to the slogan, logo, and other intellectual property that can be costly to obtain when you initially start a venture. 
• Reduced risk - There's no denying that starting a business comes with a great deal of risk. When you purchase an existing one, you'll already have a strong foundation and can focus your efforts on improvements and innovations.

Keep the downside in mind

On the downside, purchasing a business is often more expensive than starting from scratch. Think long and hard about the kinds of establishments you’re attracted to and which best match your experience and skills. You can find great ventures for sale if you contact a business broker. If you’d like to go it alone, you’ll need to take several things into consideration, such as business size, geographical area, and industry.

You also have to consider that the owner may try to downplay any business problems. These problems may be inherent, and may not become apparent until after the sale. Existing staff can offer valuable insight into areas that can be upgraded and how the business runs, and they can give you an active perspective of the business as opposed to the theoretical one you’re likely to get from the boss.

Another problem is that equipment and inventories may be obsolete. In addition, customers may owe the business, and these bills may be virtually uncollectable, making them worthless.

There are other disadvantages to purchasing a business, and you must obviously consider them seriously versus the advantages. When you’re negotiating a business acquisition loan, you must assess the existing operations of the venture thoroughly and diligently, which can be an overwhelming task.

If a business is doing badly, scrutinize it to find out what the reasons are. Inadequate resources and poor management are two common causes. Your investment may turn out to be lucrative if you can turn the business around and make it profitable; on the other hand, you’re taking a huge gamble if it doesn’t work out.

See your funding options for a business acquisition loan. Lendio will ask you a few basic questions, and will narrow down the lenders that are right for your purposes. Doing business this way saves you a lot of time, and it will help you take over your business and start making a profit much sooner than if you take the traditional route.

If you’re thinking about expanding your business, you’re probably considering financing. In this case, you also need to consider collateral to secure these loans. Banks and other lenders decide on interest rates, loan amounts, and other terms based on the amount and type of collateral you have to offer them.

What is collateral?

Collateral is an asset, such as cash or real estate, that a loan applicant offers to secure a loan as a guarantee that the loan will be repaid. The applicant agrees that the lender can claim ownership of the collateral if the applicant defaults on the loan.

The lender gains ownership of your collateral if you default on payment, whether you pledge your car, house, or equipment. Since it gives the lender peace of mind, collateral can allow people with less-than-stellar credit to qualify for a small business loan.

Lenders want to lend money to people who have skin in the game for pretty obvious reasons—they want some way to get their money back in case you stop repaying your loan. Commonly, banks want small business loans to be fully collateralized, meaning you need to offer enough collateral to cover 100% of the proposed loan amount.

What qualifies as collateral?

Different types of lenders accept various forms of collateral, so there are several routes you can take. It’s important to remember that there’s always a risk that you’ll lose the collateral if you default on your loan.

Cash

Collateral in the form of cash, as a deposit or in savings, will always be the gold standard for banks. It’s low risk for banks because it’s very easy to get their money back in case you default. While you’ll get the most favorable terms if you offer cash as collateral, you might want to shield your money from banks. Although it’s important to note that, as long as it’s being used as collateral, you also won’t be able to touch the cash.

Real estate and home equity

Real estate and home equity are the most commonly offered collateral for small businesses because a house is typically the most valuable asset an individual possesses. However, most banks will only take a small fraction of equity accrued on a house as collateral because they follow stringent debt-to-income ratios.

Automobiles

Along with homes, cars are common options for collateral. It’s best if you own your vehicle or if the total amount you owe on your car note is significantly less than its Kelley Blue Book value. Often, credit unions will offer loans for close to 100% of the value of your car. However, before offering your car as collateral, you should check with your lender to ensure that the terms of the small business loan you’re seeking will allow this.

Commercial properties and equipment

Like residential real estate, you can use commercial property as collateral. If you plan to buy commercial property with a loan, you can actually use the property in question as collateral. However, banks tend to lend less against commercial property since it is considered a less secure investment than residential property. Banks usually lend up to 50% of the value of commercial property. The same sort of financing is also available for expensive equipment.

Inventory

Product-based businesses commonly use unsold inventory as collateral. Keep in mind that your lender may value your inventory differently than you do. If you choose to take this route, remember to periodically provide updated inventory lists to your lender to ensure that your loan is properly collateralized.

401(k)

You can leverage your 401(k) as collateral, but you might get hit with a large tax bill. Many 401(k) plans allow you to take a loan out at prime interest plus one to two points. Other investments can be used as collateral, but you will typically get worse rates than if you had offered cash.

Another way you can use your 401(k) to finance a business is to execute a Rollover as Business Startups (ROBS). It’s an arrangement that lets you access your funds without incurring taxes, penalties, or interest charges, even if you have bad credit.

A ROBS involves forming a C corporation and starting a retirement plan for the business entity, then rolling over the funds from your old 401(k) into the new account. That allows you to purchase stock in your own company with the rolled-over funds and use the proceeds from the sale to fund your business.

While it can be effective, a ROBS is a highly complex and risky strategy that can cost you your business and retirement funds. It should generally be a last resort, and you should always consult a tax professional before attempting one.

Accounts receivable and purchase orders

Some lenders have options called asset-based loans that accept a small business’ inventory and accounts receivable as collateral. These loans will typically be smaller than when other assets are offered as collateral because it’s difficult for banks to determine the value of your inventory or accounts receivable. However, these can be good options if you don’t have a lot of valuable assets like real estate.

Credit card transactions and deposits

As a small business, you can apply for merchant cash advances, where you trade a portion of your daily credit card sales for a lump sum loan. There is no personal guarantee with this type of payment: it applies to your company only, and it will not affect your personal credit score if, for some reason, you cannot repay the loan. While merchant cash advances are flexible, the interest rates are often high.

How much collateral will you need?

Before applying for any loans, think hard about the size of the loan your business requires and what you’re willing to put up as collateral. Traditional banks want their loans to be fully collateralized, but other lenders might be less strict. In those cases, though, the interest rates will usually be higher, and the loan amounts will be smaller.

The amount of collateral required for a small business loan can vary widely, based on several factors. This includes the type of loan, your credit history, and the lender's policies. Typically, lenders may want the collateral to match or exceed the value of the loan. However, it’s important to bear in mind that some lenders could require collateral worth up to 150% of the loan amount due to the inherent riskiness in business ventures. 

Always ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of your lender's collateral requirements before agreeing to a loan. Remember, the collateral serves as a safety net for the lender, but it could mean a significant loss to your business if you're unable to pay back the loan.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate with a lender based on alternative lending options, your credit history, and the value of your assets.

Pros and cons of collateral loans

Like any business decision, using your assets as collateral comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros

1. Access to larger loans - Lenders are more likely to offer larger loan amounts if they know there's collateral backing the loan.
2. Lower interest rates - Loans secured with collateral typically come with lower interest rates because there's less risk for the lender.
3. Improved loan terms - Collateral-based loans often come with more favorable terms, such as longer repayment periods.

Cons

1. Risk of loss - The most significant downside to using collateral is the risk of losing your assets. If you're unable to repay the loan, the lender can take possession of your collateral.
2. Reduces liquidity - Once you pledge an asset as collateral, you can't sell it or use it as collateral for another loan until you've repaid the initial loan.
3. Valuation disputes - Sometimes, there can be disagreements about the value of the collateral, which could affect the loan amount or terms.

It's essential to weigh these pros and cons carefully before deciding to use your assets as collateral for a business loan. If you're unsure, consider seeking advice from a trusted financial advisor.

What if you don't have collateral?

If you’re like many Americans without valuable assets—or just don’t want to risk putting anything on the line—there are other alternative lending options:

1. Unsecured business loans - These loans are issued based purely on your creditworthiness and do not require collateral. However, they typically come with higher interest rates, due to the increased risk to the lender.
2. Business credit cards - Another option is to consider a business credit card. While not a traditional loan, these cards can provide the capital needed for purchases or emergency expenses.
3. Merchant cash advances - This is an advance against your business' future income. The provider gives you a lump sum, which you then repay via a percentage of your daily credit and debit card sales.
4. Invoice financing - If your business has unpaid customer invoices, some lenders will provide a cash advance based on their value.
5. Crowdfunding - Crowdfunding platforms allow businesses to raise small amounts of money from a large number of people. This isn't a loan, so you don't have to repay the funds, but you may need to provide some type of reward to your backers.

Each of these options has its pros and cons, so it's important to carefully consider your business' needs and financial situation before deciding.

Collateral serves as a safety net for lenders, giving them something to fall back on if a borrower defaults on their loan. While the idea of putting your assets on the line can be daunting, it can also open doors to larger loan amounts, lower interest rates, and improved loan terms. The key is to thoroughly understand your business' financial needs, the risks involved, and the value of your potential collateral. 

Remember, while using collateral can be an effective way to secure financing, there are numerous alternatives that don't require you to risk your assets. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your unique business circumstances and financial goals. As always, seeking advice from a trusted financial advisor can provide valuable guidance as you navigate these decisions. Knowledge is your best ally in the world of business finance.

We ranked states based on the veteran labor market and entrepreneurship.

America’s military members are an industrious group once they enter civilian life. Veterans tend to out-earn their nonveteran peers—and indeed, the median income for veterans reached a record-high of $50,476 in 2022, compared with $38,254 among nonveterans.

Click here to see the top states.

Part of that may be due to their entrepreneurial spirit. There’s no shortage of notable veteran business owners, such as Nike co-founder Phil Knight, FedEx founder Frederick Smith, and Bob Parsons, who founded GoDaddy. Warren Buffett, one of America’s wealthiest people, has even said that the military taught him how to take orders, learn from others, and have fun doing it.

And while the number of veteran-owned businesses has been falling over time, research indicates that veterans are more likely to be self-employed than nonveterans, and that veterans with small businesses have higher average net worths than non-entrepreneurial veterans.

Veterans have unique skill sets and discipline that may prime them perfectly to lead. In surveys, veterans tend to say that their military service helped prepare them to run a small business. But even so, they're more likely than nonveterans to be concerned about business regulations, lack of connections, financing, and getting customers—which could point to a lack of support for veteran entrepreneurs in parts of the country.

Lendio analyzed six metrics to determine the best states for veterans to succeed in business, including veterans’ income, employment, and business ownership, as well as startup survival, patent innovation, and new business growth. Those metrics were split into two subcategories: veteran labor market and entrepreneurship.

The results indicate that the best states for veteran entrepreneurs are scattered across the country, with no one region dominating the list. Support for veterans can be found everywhere—but some states offer softer landing pads for veterans as they decide where to set up shop or expand their businesses.

Some Key Findings:

• Virginia is the No. 1 best state. Driven by strong earnings and employment. Virginia veterans’ median income was $68,124 in 2022, compared with $41,429 among nonveterans.
• Top states span across the U.S. Wyoming, Oregon, West Virginia, and South Dakota rounded out the top five states. They typically had high rates of veteran business ownership (for example, 7.3% in West Virginia) and veteran employment (58.5% in South Dakota).
• States with the strongest veteran labor market aren't always the most entrepreneurial. Some states scored well for one subcategory, but not the other—such as No. 11 Alabama, which ranked second for veteran labor market, but 47th for entrepreneurship. That means states that came out on top in the overall ranking struck a good balance between being good for veteran workers and for those starting a business.

Top states

No. 1: Virginia

Virginia is a great state for veterans in the labor market, given that 58.7% of veterans there are employed and their average earnings are 1.6 times higher than nonveterans—better rates than anywhere else in the U.S.

No. 2: Wyoming

Wyoming scores well for both subcategories (8th for the veteran labor market and 6th for entrepreneurship), helping drive it up to the No. 2 spot overall. The state saw a 42.7% increase in new business applications year over year, the highest rate in the country, plus the median income for veterans is 1.4 times higher than that of nonveterans.

No. 3: Oregon

Oregon lands in the middle of the pack for the veteran labor market, but its strong environment for entrepreneurs helped propel it to the No. 3 ranking. The state reports 96.4 patents per 100,000 population, while 58.4% of startups survive at least five years, the highest rate in the U.S.

No. 4: West Virginia

In West Virginia, 7.3% of businesses are owned by veterans, whose median earnings are 1.4 times as high as those of nonveterans. Further, its startup survival rate is 55%, and it saw 25.9% yearly growth in new businesses.

No. 5: South Dakota

In 2022, 58.5% of South Dakota’s veterans were employed, while 6.1% of businesses are veteran-owned. Meanwhile, 55.7% of startups survive at least five years, the second-highest rate after Oregon.

No. 6: Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a high rate of patents (125.6 per 100,000) and a high startup survival rate (55%), driving it to the best state in the entrepreneurship subcategory. Its veteran workers perform fairly well, with 5.2% of businesses owned by veterans and 46.2% of veterans being employed.

No. 7: Alaska

Alaska’s veterans earn 1.5 times as much as nonveterans, based on median income in 2022. It also has one of the highest employment rates for veterans, at 57.5%.

No. 8: New Hampshire

New Hampshire has one of the highest rates of veteran-owned businesses, at 7.7%, and it saw 80 patents filed per 100,000 population in 2020.

No. 9: New Mexico

Veterans in New Mexico out-earn nonveterans by a ratio of 1.6—the third-highest ratio in the U.S. after Virginia and Alabama. The state also saw 32.8% year-over-year growth in new business applications, behind only Wyoming.

No. 10: Maryland

Maryland was propelled to the top 10 by its high level of veteran employment (54.3%) and strong income ratio, given veterans’ median income is 1.4 times higher than nonveterans’.

Runners-up

The runner-up states tend to excel for either their veteran labor markets or for their entrepreneurship more broadly. For example, 6.8% of businesses in Alabama are owned by veterans, whose median income is 1.6 times higher than nonveterans—a higher rate than almost anywhere else. Texas and South Carolina also scored especially well for their veteran labor markets, driven by their high income ratios (each 1.5).

Meanwhile, states like California, Washington, and Kentucky scored well due to the force of their entrepreneurial communities, with California reporting more patents per 100,000 population than any other state (127.8) and Kentucky seeing 30.5% year-over-year new business growth. Washington also has a high patent rate at 118 per 100,000.

5 tips for veterans to start a business

Veterans have valuable skills and experiences to translate to the private sector. But while it can be highly rewarding to run your own business, getting your firm started is a major endeavor that takes time, planning, and effort. These tips will help you get going:

1. Develop a strong business plan - Begin with a well-researched business idea, emphasizing your unique value in the niche or industry you’ve selected. Consider your financial projections, marketing tools, and operations plan.

2. Research grants and loan opportunities - The Small Business Administration offers programs, grants, and loans designed to support veteran entrepreneurs, such as the Boots to Business initiative. Some organizations and nonprofits also offer financial support and coaching.

3. Network - Connect with other entrepreneurs, veterans, and mentors who can offer guidance and support. Get involved with the local business community and join industry-specific groups to spread the word about your business.

4. Establish solid legal and financial structures - Choose wisely whether it makes the most sense to establish an LLC, sole proprietorship, or corporation. Make sure to also separate your personal and professional finances and ensure you’re compliant with federal and local regulations.

5. Be patient - It takes time to establish a successful business. With the right tools in place, you'll be able to stay resilient as you get your business up and running.

Conclusion

The success of veterans as entrepreneurs underscores their impressive contributions to the American economy. Our findings emphasize the need for continued efforts to empower veteran entrepreneurs, allowing them to harness their full potential to lead and excel in the business world.

Methodology

We used the most recent federal data for six metrics across two categories to determine the best states for veterans to start a business. We used a Z-score distribution to scale each metric relative to the mean across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., and capped outliers at 3. A state’s overall ranking was calculated using its average Z-score across the six metrics, while its subcategory ranking was calculated using its average Z-score across the three relevant metrics. Three states were missing data for veteran business ownership (Virginia, Wyoming, and Oregon) so their scores were calculated across the remaining five metrics. Here’s a closer look at the metrics we used:

• Veteran labor market
• Share of employer businesses owned by veterans, 2020 (Census Bureau)
• Median income ratio, veterans to nonveterans, 2022 (Census Bureau)
• Employment rate among veterans, 2022 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
• Entrepreneurship
• Five-year startup survival rate, March 2022 (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
• Patents per 100,000 population, 2020 (U.S. Patent and Trademark Office)
• Growth in new business applications, Aug. 2022-2023 (Census Bureau)

New small business owners often need funding to meet their goals. However, they frequently struggle to qualify for debt and equity financing because of a bad credit score or a limited operating history.

Revenue-based financing is an alternative method of raising capital that’s often more accessible. If you’re interested in the arrangement, here’s what you should know before you apply, including how it works and when it’s worth using.

What is revenue-based financing?

Revenue-based financing is another name for a business cash advance. Like a business loan, it provides a lump sum you can use to grow your company. You then repay the original amount plus a fee with daily or weekly bank account withdrawals based on a percentage of your monthly deposits.

Revenue-based financing arrangements are relatively accessible and can provide funding quickly, but they’re also expensive. As a result, they’re usually best for business owners who can’t access traditional sources of capital.

How does revenue-based financing work?

Revenue-based financing arrangements serve a similar purpose to business loans, but their structure and terms are significantly different. Here’s how they work.

Qualification requirements

Revenue-based financing is much easier to access than traditional forms of business funding. You typically only need to meet minimal personal credit score, time-in-business, and monthly bank deposit requirements to qualify for an account.

For example, Credibly’s business cash advance has the following eligibility criteria:

• 550+ personal credit score
• 6+ months in business
• $20,000+ average monthly bank deposits

Applying for revenue-based financing is also much faster than requesting other forms of funding. You can often complete your application in minutes, receive a response within a day, and have your funds in around 48 hours.

Financing terms

Terms vary between providers, but revenue-based financing can generate significant capital. Your proceeds primarily depend on your average monthly deposits. The more you earn, the more you can borrow. 

For example, Kapitus offers advances between $10,000 and $750,000, and Backd may offer up to $2 million. Your actual amount is typically between three and six times your gross monthly revenue.

Despite the high borrowing potential, revenue-based financing follows a much shorter repayment term than a small business loan. Most arrangements are between 3 and 18 months, though some can be as long as 36 months.

Meanwhile, financing charges are usually higher than with traditional funding options. In addition, they’re presented as a factor rate rather than an interest rate, and you can expect them to range from around 1.2 to 1.5.

In other words, if you borrow $100,000, you’ll usually repay between $120,000 and $150,000.

Repayment process

Another notable difference between revenue-based financing and a business loan is the repayment process. Instead of making fixed monthly principal and interest payments, you let your funder take a portion of your sales.

Typically, they’ll withdraw a fixed percentage of your average monthly revenue directly from your bank account, either daily or weekly.

For example, your business earns $30,000 monthly, and you take out a $100,000 business cash advance. Your funder takes 10% per month, which equals $3,000. Assuming each month has 20 business days, they withdraw $150 daily.

When is revenue-based financing worth using?

Revenue-based financing is worth considering when traditional business financing options are unsuitable for your situation. Typically, that's because you can’t qualify for them due to your credit scores or time in business.

New small business owners and startup founders often face this issue because traditional financial institutions usually want to see at least two years of business history. They may check your business credit score too, which also takes time to establish.

As a result, a business cash advance is often an attractive funding option in the early years. However, because revenue-based financing is expensive, consider all your other options first.

If you can’t get a business loan from a bank or credit union, an online lender may still be willing to work with you. They have less rigorous qualification requirements that are closer to those of revenue-based funders.

Alternatively, you can consider equity financing options, such as angel investors and venture capitalists. These require that you give up a portion of your company ownership, but they also provide you with valuable allies who can help you grow.

Pros and cons of revenue-based financing

Like all financing options, revenue-based financing comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help you make a more informed decision about whether it's the right choice for your business.

Pros of revenue-based financing

1. Easy to Qualify: One of the major advantages of revenue-based financing is its low qualification requirements. New businesses or those with poor credit scores can easily qualify for this type of financing as the primary focus is on the business's revenues and not its credit history.
2. Quick Funding: Businesses can apply and get approved for revenue-based financing within a matter of days. This speed can be crucial for businesses needing to address urgent cash flow needs.
3. Flexible Repayment: The repayment plan is proportional to your income. This means in slower months, you'll pay less, and in more profitable months, you'll contribute more, ensuring the repayment does not strain your business cash flow.

Cons of revenue-based financing

1. High Cost: The convenience and accessibility of revenue-based financing come at a price. The factor rates can be significantly higher than conventional financing options, making it a more expensive choice in the long run.
2. Shorter Repayment Term: While the repayment amount is flexible, the term is not. Most revenue-based financing options require full repayment within 18 months, which can be a challenge for businesses with inconsistent revenues.
3. Regular Withdrawals: The lender will make daily or weekly withdrawals from your bank account, which could potentially disrupt your cash flow if not properly managed.

Comparing financing options.

When it comes to raising capital, business owners have a plethora of options, each with its own merits and demerits. Here, we'll delve into a comparison of revenue-based financing, debt financing, and equity financing.

Revenue-based financing

As discussed, revenue-based financing is a method where business owners receive an upfront capital injection, repaying with a percentage of future revenues. It's relatively accessible, quick to secure, and provides flexible repayment terms correlated with your sales. However, it's often a steeply-priced option with short repayment terms and regular withdrawals that may disrupt cash flow.

Debt financing

Debt financing involves borrowing money, typically from a lender such as a bank, with an agreement to repay the principal along with interest over a predetermined timeframe. The advantage of debt financing is that you maintain total ownership of your business. However, it requires a good credit score, stable business history, and collateral, making it less accessible for new or struggling businesses. You're also obligated to repay the loan regardless of whether your business is profitable or not.

Equity financing

Equity financing includes raising capital by selling shares of your company to investors, like angel investors and venture capitalists. The primary advantage is that there's no obligation to repay investors; they make money when the company is successful. Furthermore, you can benefit from their expertise and networks. On the downside, you will have to share your profits with your investors and may lose some control over the business as they will have voting rights.

When choosing a financing option, it's crucial to carefully consider your business's financial situation, growth stage, and long-term goals.

Explore your options with Lendio.

Revenue-based financing can be an effective alternative to traditional debt and equity options, especially for new small business owners with bad credit scores. You can quickly access a significant amount of capital and use it to grow your business.If you’re a good fit for revenue-based financing, use Lendio to find the best cash advance provider for your needs. Sign up to compare offers from multiple funders and apply for financing today!

Starting a business can be a daunting task, especially if you lack the capital to get it off the ground. Finding the funding to start a business is one of the biggest hurdles you'll face as a small business owner.

According to a Lendio survey, 54% of SMB owners started their business with personal funds with 79% needing less than $100,000 to start their business and 43% needing less than $10,000.Fortunately, there are plenty of funding options available to help you get started. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most popular choices for how to get money to start a business. Let's dive in.

Bootstrapping

Bootstrapping is the process of funding your business using your own money and resources. It's a great way to keep you in control of your finances and avoid taking on debt. This method usually requires a lot of hard work, sacrifice, and creativity, but it can pay off in the long run. Examples of bootstrapping include working from home, relying on personal savings, using free or inexpensive marketing channels, and building your product or service in-house.

Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding is another popular option for raising money to start a business. You can set up a crowdfunding campaign on platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and GoFundMe. The idea is to offer incentives to people who donate to your campaign, such as early access to your product, a shoutout on social media, or even equity in your company. Crowdfunding can be a great way to get early validation from your target market and build a community around your brand.

Friends and family

Another common source of funding for starting a business is to seek help from friends and family. A lot of entrepreneurs initially turn to those they trust for financial assistance. This method can be beneficial as the terms are often more flexible and the interest rates more favorable than conventional loans. If you choose this route, it's crucial to make it professional: draft a formal business plan, clearly communicate repayment terms, and consider establishing an official loan agreement. 

By treating it as a business transaction, you can maintain healthy personal relationships while securing the capital needed to kickstart your business. But remember, borrowing from friends and family should be approached with caution, as it could potentially strain relationships if not managed professionally.

Small business grants

Depending on your industry and location, you may qualify for small business grants. These are usually offered by local or state governments, nonprofits, and private organizations. Small business grants come with fewer restrictions than loans, and you don't have to pay them back. However, they can be more difficult to obtain, and they often require a detailed business plan and proof of your project's potential impact.

To look for small business grants, you should begin by checking out your local and state government websites. They often have information about available grants and instructions on how to apply. Online platforms like GrantWatch and Grants.gov can also be helpful resources. These websites aggregate thousands of active grant opportunities from federal, state, and local governments, as well as private foundations.

Credit cards

Credit cards are another potential source of business funds that is especially useful for smaller, frequent expenses or as a short-term cash flow solution. Business credit cards often come with benefits like cash back, travel rewards, and special rates for specific categories of purchases. Importantly, using a credit card for business expenses can help you build your business credit, which can aid in securing larger financing down the line. 

However, credit cards should be used judiciously, as high interest rates can add to your debt if the balance isn't cleared promptly. Always consider the interest rates, fees, and repayment terms before opting for this method, and strive to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid accumulating debt.

Personal loans

You can apply for personal loans from banks, credit unions, or online lenders. Because these loans are based on your personal creditworthiness, they can be easier to obtain than business loans, especially for new businesses. However, it's important to note that—since the loan is tied to your personal finances—you will be personally responsible for the repayment. Failure to repay can impact your personal credit score. 

As such, while personal loans can be a good option for initial funding, they should be considered carefully, and you should ensure you have a solid plan for repayment before opting for this route.

Business loans

If you haven't yet started your business and started generating revenue, you'll have a hard time qualifying for a business loan. Once you've been in business for six months, you can start to qualify for financing options like a business cash advance, invoice factoring, or equipment financing. After a year or two, you can start to qualify for a term loan, SBA loan, or line of credit. You can get a business loan from a bank, a credit union, or an online lender. With Lendio, it's easy to compare multiple lenders and loan types at once.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

A Home Equity Line of Credit, or HELOC, is another viable option for securing funds to start your business, especially if you're a homeowner with substantial equity in your home. HELOC works somewhat like a credit card, where you are given a credit limit based on the amount of equity you have in your home. You can borrow up to this limit during a draw period, typically 5-10 years. 

What's advantageous about HELOC is that you pay interest only on the amount you borrow, not the total equity available to you. Plus, the interest rates are usually lower than those of credit cards, making it a more affordable option. However, keep in mind that your home serves as collateral and failure to repay the loan could put your home at risk. Therefore, like with all other funding options, it's important to have a solid repayment plan in place when considering a HELOC.

Retirement savings

Tapping into your retirement savings is another way to fund your startup. If you have money saved in a 401(k) or an IRA, you might consider using some of it to launch your business. This method has its pros and cons, so it's important to weigh them carefully. On the plus side, you're essentially borrowing from yourself—which means you won't have to go through a credit check or application process—and you won't incur any debt. Additionally, you might have access to a substantial amount of money, depending on how much you've saved. 

However, the downside is that you're risking your financial future. If your business doesn't succeed, you could lose a significant portion of your retirement savings. And even if your business does succeed, you'll still have to make up for the money you've withdrawn from your retirement account. Before you decide to use this method, consider consulting with a financial advisor to understand the potential risks involved.

Angel investors

Angel investors are affluent individuals who provide capital for a business startup, usually in exchange for convertible debt or ownership equity. They can provide much-needed seed funding to get your business off the ground. Angel investors may also provide valuable mentorship and access to their business networks. Websites such as AngelList and SeedInvest make it easier to connect with potential angel investors.

Venture capital

Venture capital is a type of equity financing typically provided by firms to startups and early-stage companies that have been deemed to have high growth potential. Venture capitalists take a share of the company in return for their investment, and they may also require some level of managerial and strategic control. Getting venture capital can be a competitive process, but it can provide significant funding and valuable business expertise.

Business incubators and accelerators

These are programs designed to support the successful development of entrepreneurial companies through an array of business support resources and services. Business incubators focus on the early stage of a startup, providing entrepreneurs with the skills and advisors necessary to grow their business. Accelerators, on the other hand, typically focus on scaling a business and helping it grow fast.

Partnerships

Forming a strategic partnership with another business can provide valuable funding. In return for funding, partners can receive equity, a percentage of sales, or the option to merge or acquire your company in the future. Choose your partners carefully as they'll have a large influence on your business.

Government programs

Various government entities offer programs to support small businesses. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has several funding programs for startups, including the Microloan program and the SBA Community Advantage Program.

Customers

You may be able to secure funding through your customers. Pre-selling your product or service, and asking for deposits or subscriptions can provide you with the funds to start or grow your business. This method also validates your business idea, proving that there's a market for your product or service.

Conclusion

If you're wondering how to get money to start a business, there are plenty of options available to you. Keep in mind that each method has its pros and cons, and it's up to you to decide which one fits your needs and goals best. Learn more about startup business loans.

A traditional business loan can be difficult to get without collateral. Many lenders may be unwilling to approve you for a business loan unless you can offer some sort of asset—such as real estate or equipment—which you agree to surrender if you’re unable to repay the funds you borrow. 

However, not all borrowers have assets to provide as collateral. And even those who have available assets they could offer to secure loans might not want to use them.

Read on to learn more about startup business loans you can get without collateral. These loans have the potential to help you turn your business startup dreams into reality without putting your personal and business assets at risk to secure financing.

What are business loans with no collateral? 

A business loan with no collateral is a funding option for which you don’t need to pledge an asset that a lender could seize if you fail to repay the debt. Another term for this type of financing is an unsecured business loan. 

It is important to point out that the lender’s risk is higher with an unsecured loan since it has no assets to take possession of in the event of a default. Because no collateral business loans involve more risk for lenders, these loans tend to be less common. And when you find lenders that offer these loans, they also tend to cost more. Business loans with no collateral may feature higher interest rates and fees compared with other business financing options. 

Even without collateral requirements, you may still have to provide a personal guarantee when you take out an unsecured business loan. A personal guarantee is an agreement between you (the business owner) and a creditor stating you agree to repay a debt yourself if your business fails to do so. In essence, a personal guarantee makes you a co-signer when your business borrows money. 

Startup business loan options with no collateral.

Below are some options to consider if you’re looking for a business loan with no collateral.

SBA microloan

There are numerous types of SBA loans that business owners can seek when they need financial assistance. Almost all of these loans require some sort of collateral. However, the SBA offers microloans that do not require collateral. Instead, they require a personal guarantee.

Microloans are available for up to $50,000. But the average microloan a business receives is around $13,000. You can use an SBA microloan to purchase inventory, supplies, equipment, furniture, or machinery, to fulfill working capital needs, and more. 

Unsecured business line of credit

An unsecured business line of credit is a flexible financing solution that your business can rely on multiple times. With a revolving business line of credit, you can borrow up to the credit limit on your account, repay some or all of the money borrowed, and access the credit line again. This setup differs from a traditional business loan where you receive the loan proceeds you borrow in a single disbursement, but lack the ability to borrow again from the same source in the future. 

You do not have to provide collateral for unsecured business lines of credit. However, many lenders require a personal guarantee. 

Unsecured business term loan

While uncommon, some banks and online lenders offer unsecured business term loans. These loans will typically still require a personal guarantee and will have more stringent qualification criteria including a longer minimum time in business requirement.

Alternative financing options.

Aside from the options mentioned earlier, alternative financing methods can offer a practical solution for business owners in need of capital.

Equipment financing

An equipment loan or equipment leasing is a collateral-based loan. In general, the equipment you purchase serves as some or all of the collateral. In the case of equipment leasing, only the equipment being leased is used as collateral with no prior existing asset required. 

For many business owners, this arrangement feels very different from a loan that uses the borrower’s personal property as a guarantee or asks for additional business assets as collateral. Yet the lender can still reduce its risk with this type of loan since there is an asset to seize and resell in the event of a default. 

Invoice factoring

Technically, invoice factoring does require collateral, but instead of putting up real estate or personal assets, the lender accepts your unpaid invoices as collateral. This type of financing can be easier to qualify for since the creditworthiness of your customers, rather than you or your business, is a major factor in the approval process. 

With invoice factoring, a lender advances you money against your unpaid invoices. Then it collects payments from your customers on those invoices and remits the balance minus its fees to you.

Inventory financing

Similar to invoice factoring, inventory financing uses your business’s inventory as collateral instead of requiring you to secure your loan with other assets. With inventory financing, you can receive a loan or line of credit to purchase more inventory, expand your business, increase cash flow, and more.

The lender will assess the value of the business's existing inventory through a process known as auditing. They'll look into aspects like the type of inventory in question, its market value, its scalability, its condition, and its age. Based on this audit, the lender determines the amount they are willing to lend.

Business cash advance

A business cash advance refers to a type of financing you can use to borrow against future revenue that your business will earn. With a business cash advance, a lender provides you money up front and takes repayment via an automatic deduction of a percentage of your business’s future sales. 

Your company might be eligible for this type of financing once it has at least four to six months of acceptable revenue history that a cash advance provider can review. And while a business cash advance can be more expensive than a traditional business loan, this financing solution could work well for a startup with no collateral and even those without good credit. 

Alternatives to business loans with no collateral.

As a business owner, you may need various types of startup funding to achieve your goals. Here are four alternatives to collateral-free business loans to consider.

Business credit cards

A small business credit card is another financing option that can benefit startups and established businesses. It offers perks such as building business credit, separating personal and business finances, and providing short-term cash flow solutions. Depending on the account type, you may earn rewards or cash back on necessary business purchases.

If your personal credit score is 690 or higher, you may qualify for an unsecured business credit card without a cash security deposit. Note that most business credit card issuers require a personal guarantee from the business owner.

Crowdfunding

Small business owners with strong social networks might consider crowdsourcing to raise money for their startup goals. Crowdfunding allows small businesses to raise funds from multiple investors or donors without repayment obligations.

Unlike a loan, crowdfunding doesn't require collateral. However, other considerations exist when using rewards-based, donor, or equity crowdfunding for business funding.

Personal savings

The majority of startups don’t seek financing. According to the SCOREFoundation, powered by the SBA, 78% of startups rely on personal savings or income from another job. 

If you decide to use personal funds to start a new business, it’s important to exercise caution. Draining emergency savings or retirement funds is risky. So, you should consider how you might cope if you lost those funds and make sure you have a plan that you can live with before moving forward with such a high-risk investment.

Requirements for a startup loan without collateral.

To qualify for a business loan with no collateral, you will need to meet the lender’s eligibility criteria. Some factors that lenders may consider are your credit score, time in business, revenue and cash flow, debt-to-income ratio or EBITDA margin, personal financial strength, industry risk level, and how you plan to use the funds.

Since the loan is unsecured the lender may also require the following to help reduce their risk:

Personal guarantee

Instead of putting assets at risk to start your business, some lenders may accept a personal guarantee from the business owner as added security when you apply for startup funding. A personal guarantee states that you as the individual will be responsible for the loan in the event that your business cannot repay the debt.

A personal guarantee can be valuable to a lender if you have existing credit and personal assets. A high credit score indicates to lenders that you are trustworthy and likely to repay the money you borrow as promised. 

Blanket UCC lien

A blanket UCC lien states that if your business defaults on its loan, the lender can seize all of its assets—including equipment and accounts payable. A blanket UCC lien lets you use your entire business as collateral, even if you haven’t built it yet. 

There is, of course, risk involved when you agree to a blanket UCC lien. If you can’t repay a business debt, the lender might decide that it’s better off taking money you have in the company and selling your equipment rather than continuing to wait for you to make another payment. 

Adjusted loan terms

If you’re struggling to find unsecured loans on your desired terms, consider changing your expectations. Look for ways to reduce the lender’s risk, so they are more likely to approve your funding application. 

In general, lenders see shorter term lengths as less risky since they get their money back sooner and there are fewer potential events that could lead to a default. 

If you are still hitting roadblocks during the loan application process, consider taking out a smaller business loan. For example, instead of requesting $30,000 in business financing, you could ask for $5,000.

Next steps 

At Lendio, our job is to help businesses find the right financing at the best rates. If you are looking to fund your startup, turn to our lending center. Learn about your options for taking out a small business loan without putting your assets up as collateral.

The information in this blog is for informational purposes. It should not be used as legal, business, tax, or financial advice. The information contained in this page is Lendio’s opinion based on Lendio’s research, methodology, evaluation, and other factors. The information provided is accurate at the time of the initial publishing of the page (October 26, 2023). While Lendio strives to maintain this information to ensure that it is up to date, this information may be different than what you see in other contexts, including when visiting the financial information, a different service provider, or a specific product’s site. All information provided in this page is presented to you without warranty. When evaluating offers, please review the financial institution’s terms and conditions, relevant policies, contractual agreements and other applicable information. Please note that the ranges provided here are not pre-qualified offers and may be greater or less than the ranges provided based on information contained in your business financing application. Lendio may receive compensation from the financial institutions evaluated on this page in the event that you receive business financing through that financial institution.