Various financing options are available for businesses that want to borrow money, and there are many reasons why they might want to do so. Many loan options can be beneficial, but it is essential to conduct research first if you are considering applying for a loan. Selecting the correct type of business loan is essential to obtain financing for your business. Several factors can influence the type of business loan suitable for you, including your qualification requirements, loan purpose, and desired loan terms. The following are the six most common types of business loans.
Term Loans
There are many small business loans, but term loans are among the most common. A term loan is a lump sum of cash you repay over a fixed time. They add interest to the principal balance at the end of each month and set monthly payments. The flexibility of a term loan allows you to use it for various needs, such as equipment and everyday expenses.
Short-term Loans
If your business needs a quick source of cash and you value repayment terms of under three years, a short-term business loan may be a good option. Some online lenders can provide funding to qualifying businesses within one day. You may avail of a short-term loan based on a variety of factors.
Working Capital Loan
A working capital loan allows businesses to meet daily business requirements, enhance their cash flow, purchase raw materials, add inventory and stock, pay salaries, and hire staff. It is a short-term loan with a year or less repayment term. Also known as a collateral-free loan, this loan does not require the borrower to provide the bank with collateral. The interest rate offered is a bit higher than long-term or business loans. An amount can apply only for specific business purposes in this type of loan. The bank sets a limit for how much a business can borrow.
Business Lines Of Credit
Business lines of credit are similar to credit cards in that they provide borrowers with revolving credit limits to access through their checking accounts. It is possible to withdraw money up to the maximum credit limit on the card, repay it, and then use it again. You only get the interest in the amount you withdraw, so these options are great if you don’t know how much money you’ll need. Comparatively, term loans charge interest on the entire loan, regardless of how much you use. Most business lines of credit are unsecured, meaning it’s okay not to have collateral.
Equipment Loans
An equipment loan may be an option if you need to finance large equipment purchases but lack the capital. You can use these loans to cover the cost of expensive machinery, vehicles, or equipment that is likely to retain its value, such as computers and furniture. It is always the case that the equipment you purchase will be used as collateral if you cannot pay it back.
Franchise Loans
You can achieve business ownership more quickly and easily by becoming a franchisee than by starting your own business, though you will still need capital. With franchise loans, you can pay the upfront fee for opening a franchise to get started immediately. Franchisees may receive funding from their franchisors, even if they take out the loan through a lender.
Bottom Line
There are so many options available regarding small business loans that it can be overwhelming to choose one. Depending on your business needs, you can narrow down your choices. By researching a few lenders, you can find out what interest rates, fees, loan amounts, and terms lenders offer. Doing this allows you to find the best loan for your business and obtain the funds it needs to grow.