Average Business Loan Amount: A Guide for Entrepreneurs

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The average business loan amount can be a mystery to many entrepreneurs. Typically, this amount varies depending on the type of business, industry, and loan term.

Small businesses often require smaller loan amounts, averaging around $100,000 to $200,000. This is because they often have limited revenue and expenses.

For larger businesses or those in high-growth industries, loan amounts can be significantly higher, often ranging from $500,000 to $1 million or more.

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Average Business Loan Amount

The average business loan amount varies greatly depending on the type of lender and loan you choose. According to the Federal Reserve, the average small business loan amount from commercial U.S. banks is $663,000.

However, not all lenders offer such large loan amounts. Small domestic banks, for example, typically lend around $146,000 on average.

Online lenders, on the other hand, often have a more straightforward approval process and may offer loan amounts ranging from $5,000 to $500,000.

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Some SBA lenders offer an average loan amount of $443,097, while others may offer as little as $107,000.

Here's a breakdown of the average business loan amounts from different lenders:

Keep in mind that these are just averages, and the actual loan amount you'll qualify for will depend on your business's finances and other factors.

Loan Amount by Type

The average business loan amount varies depending on the type of loan or lender you choose. SBA 7(a) loans have an average amount of $443,097, while microloans max out at $50,000 but average around $15,000.

For long-term financing, CDC/504 Loans can reach up to $5.5 million, and Disaster Loans can go up to $2 million. Meanwhile, online loans can offer up to $500,000, and short-term loans typically range from $5,000 to $750,000.

Here's a breakdown of average business loan amounts by lender type:

Sizes and Approval Rates

The average small business loan amount varies depending on the type of loan and lender you choose. It's essential to know the average loan amounts for different lenders to make an informed decision.

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The average small business loan amount from commercial U.S. banks is $663,000, according to the Federal Reserve. Large national banks can offer significantly more money, up to $5 million or more.

The approval rate for business loans has remained mostly steady over the past couple of years, ranging from 51.0% to 51.3%. In contrast, the average size of approved business loans has seen smaller fluctuations, with average loan amounts ranging from $64,523 to $109,668.

Here's a breakdown of the average business loan amounts for different lenders:

Keep in mind that the average loan amount varies depending on the lender and loan type. Online lenders, for example, may offer lower loan amounts, but with more lenient borrowing requirements and a shorter underwriting process.

Equipment Financing

Equipment financing is a type of loan that's secured by the equipment you're purchasing, with the loan amount typically equaling the cost of the equipment purchase.

You can find equipment loans from both traditional banks and online lenders, such as Bank of America and Triton Capital.

Because this loan is secured by the equipment, you can expect lower interest rates than an unsecured term loan.

The lender can seize the equipment if you default on the loan, which is a risk you'll want to carefully consider before signing any agreements.

Amount by Lender

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The average business loan amount varies significantly depending on the lender. Large national banks can offer up to $593,000, while small regional banks typically lend around $146,000.

Banks are considered the gold standard in business financing, but their strict qualification requirements make them less accessible to smaller businesses. To be eligible for a small business loan from a traditional bank, borrowers need to have an established business, meet a minimum annual revenue amount, and have a strong credit history.

The average business loan amount from large national banks is $593,000, while small domestic banks offer an average of $146,000. Foreign banks made by U.S. branches, on the other hand, can offer up to $8,512,000.

SBA lenders, however, offer more modest loan amounts, with an average of $107,000. This is because smaller banks are less likely to take on the risk of larger loans, but the government guarantee of SBA loans makes them more attractive to regional banks.

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Here's a breakdown of the average business loan amounts by lender:

Keep in mind that these are just averages, and the actual loan amount you'll qualify for will depend on your business's financial health and other factors.

Business Loan Costs

Business Loan Costs can add up quickly, and it's essential to understand what you're getting into. Banks typically charge fees besides interest, such as origination fees, which can range from 1% to 6% of the loan amount.

These fees cover the costs of verifying your information and processing paperwork, and some lenders may roll them into the cost of the loan. Origination fees can be a flat fee or a percentage of the loan amount.

Some lenders may also charge an application fee upfront to review the application, and other fees can include monthly administrative fees, annual fees, service or processing fees, prepayment penalties, referral fees, late payment fees, and wire transfer fees.

Here are some common business loan fees to be aware of:

  • Origination fee: 1% to 6% of the loan amount
  • Documentation fee: a common fee for processing paperwork
  • Application fee: an upfront fee to review the application
  • Monthly administrative fees
  • Annual fees
  • Service or processing fees
  • Prepayment penalties
  • Referral fees
  • Late payment fees
  • Wire transfer fees

Typical Start-Up Costs

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A typical start-up business loan can max out at $50,000 through the SBA microloan program.

Private companies, on the other hand, can offer loans of up to $5 million or more.

Fees

Fees can add up quickly, so it's essential to understand what you're getting into. Banks typically charge fees for processing and approving loan applications, with an origination fee ranging from 1% to 6% of the loan amount.

An origination fee is a flat fee or a percentage of the loan amount, and it's often rolled into the cost of the loan. Banks may also charge a documentation fee to cover the cost of processing paperwork.

Besides origination and documentation fees, some lenders may charge an application fee upfront to review the application. This can give you a better idea of the total cost of borrowing.

Other fees you might encounter include monthly administrative fees, annual fees, service or processing fees, prepayment penalties, referral fees, and late payment fees. These fees can vary depending on the lender and the specific loan terms.

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Some fees, like late payment fees and prepayment penalties, will only apply in certain situations. It's essential to review the loan terms carefully to understand what fees you might be charged.

Here's a breakdown of some common fees you might encounter:

  • Origination fee: 1% to 6% of the loan amount
  • Documentation fee: varies
  • Application fee: varies
  • Monthly administrative fees: varies
  • Annual fees: varies
  • Service or processing fees: varies
  • Prepayment penalties: varies
  • Referral fees: varies
  • Late payment fees: varies
  • Wire transfer fees: varies

Business Loan Approval and Requirements

To qualify for a small business loan, you'll need to meet specific requirements, which vary depending on the type of loan. An SBA loan, for example, tends to have stricter qualification requirements than a traditional bank loan.

Credit scores play a crucial role in the approval process, with lenders often requiring a minimum score to approve a loan. Unfortunately, opening a small business with less than perfect credit can be challenging.

There are, however, loans available for people with bad credit, offering an alternative for those who may not meet traditional credit score requirements. These loans can provide the necessary funding for a startup company to get off the ground.

To increase your chances of approval, focus on improving your credit score before applying for a loan. This can make a significant difference in the loan approval process.

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Business Loan Options

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SBA loans can be a great option for small business owners, offering fast financial relief to invest in your business. The U.S. Small Business Administration provides SBA loans to eligible small business owners.

The SBA offers three types of loan options: 7(a) loans, 504 loans, and Microloans. 7(a) loans are the most common, providing short and long-term financial help to small business owners, with a maximum loan amount of five million dollars.

To qualify for an SBA loan, your business must operate for profit and do business in the United States. You must also have a sufficient amount of invested equity and have previously sought alternative financial resources.

Some examples of SBA loan options include:

  • 7(a) Loans: Provides short and long-term financial help to small business owners, with a maximum loan amount of five million dollars.
  • 504 Loans: Provides long-term, fixed-rate financing to specific businesses, for purchases or repairs of real estate property, equipment, or other assets.
  • Microloans: Provides small business loans worth less than $50,000, for specific business needs.

Keep in mind that not all businesses qualify for SBA loans, even if they meet the basic requirements. Certain businesses, such as real estate investment firms or those with pyramid sales plans, are not eligible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much income do I need for a $500,000 business loan?

To qualify for a $500,000 business loan, you typically need a minimum monthly revenue of $350,000. Check your business's eligibility and explore your options with our expert guidance.

How hard is it to get a $100,000 business loan?

Qualifying for a $100,000 business loan can be challenging, requiring good credit, at least two years in business, and annual revenue of $150,000 to $250,000. Traditional lenders often have strict requirements, but alternative options may be available for those who don't meet these criteria.

What is the payment on a $1,000,000 business loan?

Monthly payments on a $1,000,000 business loan can range from under $11,000 to over $33,000, depending on the loan term and interest rate. To get a more accurate estimate, consider factors like loan term length and interest rates.

How much can you borrow on a SBA loan?

You can borrow between $500,000 and $5.5 million on an SBA loan, depending on the type of loan and its intended use. This flexible funding can help your business grow and thrive in various ways.

Sean Dooley

Lead Writer

Sean Dooley is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting engaging content. With a strong background in research and analysis, Sean has developed a keen eye for detail and a talent for distilling complex information into clear, concise language. Sean's portfolio includes a wide range of articles on topics such as accounting services, where he has demonstrated a deep understanding of financial concepts and a ability to communicate them effectively to diverse audiences.

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