Your Small Business Loan Tips & Tricks

Running a small business is tough, especially with post-pandemic supply chain troubles and employee shortages. The US Small Business Administration (SBA) helps small businesses obtain needed credit by working with commercial lenders. The many reasons why someone might need an SBA loan are varied, but the most common are:

Starting or Expanding a Business. When starting a new business, you may need financing for startup costs such as equipment, inventory, or rent. An SBA loan can provide the necessary funding to get your business up and running. If your business is growing and you need to hire more staff, open a new location, or invest in new equipment, an SBA loan can help you finance these expansions.

Recovering from a Disaster. If your business has been impacted by a natural disaster such as a hurricane or flood, an SBA loan can help you rebuild and recover.

Improving Cash Flow. Suppose your business is experiencing cash flow issues. In that case, an SBA loan can provide short-term financing to help you bridge the gap until your business becomes profitable again.

Overall, SBA loans can be a valuable resource for small business owners who need financing to help start, grow, expand, or recover from unexpected setbacks. However, finding a small business loan isn't for the faint of heart. To help you make the most of your SBA loan search, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:

Understand Your Options. The SBA offers several types of loans, each with its own requirements, benefits, and predictably strange government names (lol). Therefore, it's important to research and understand the different options available to you so you can choose the one that best suits your unique needs. 

Get Organized. Before applying for an SBA loan, make sure you have all the necessary documents and information ready. This includes financial statements, tax returns, business plans, and other relevant documentation.

Work with a Lender. SBA loans are typically distributed through banks and other financial institutions. Work with a lender experienced in SBA loans that can help you navigate the application process and increase your chances of approval. Interview your banker and be sure they have plenty of experience with SBA loans, and demand transparency regarding timelines and benchmarks.

Understand the Terms. Make sure you fully understand the terms of your loan, including interest rates, repayment terms, and any fees or penalties. This will help you avoid any surprises down the road.

Use the Funds Wisely. Once you receive your SBA loan, use the funds wisely to achieve your business goals. It's essential to have a solid plan in place for how you will use the funds, and to stay disciplined in following through on that plan.

This helpful article from The Motley Fool provides more in-depth detail and additional helpful tips. If you have any further questions or would like to discuss your specific business needs in more detail, please don't hesitate to contact us. We love helping small business owners get their financial house in good order.