As a small business owner, navigating the SBA application loan process can be daunting, but don't worry, I've got you covered. The SBA offers several types of loans, including the 7(a) loan program, which is the most popular and versatile.
The 7(a) loan program allows for loans up to $5 million, with a maximum loan term of 10 years for working capital loans. This gives you the flexibility to choose the loan term that best suits your business needs.
To qualify for an SBA loan, you'll need to have a good credit score, a solid business plan, and a manageable debt-to-equity ratio. A minimum credit score of 650 is often required, but some lenders may accept lower scores.
The SBA also requires a personal guarantee from the business owner, which means you'll be personally responsible for repaying the loan if the business can't. This can be a significant risk, so it's essential to carefully review the loan terms before signing.
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Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an SBA loan, you'll need to meet certain eligibility requirements. Your business must be officially registered and operate legally.
The business must be physically located and operate in the United States or its territories. This is a straightforward requirement, but it's essential to ensure your business meets this criterion.
The business's credit must be sound enough to assure loan repayment. This means you'll need to have a good credit history, either personally or as a business.
You'll also need to demonstrate that you've tried to get financing from non-government sources before applying for an SBA loan. This shows that you've explored all other options and are genuinely in need of the loan.
Here are the key eligibility requirements to keep in mind:
- The business is officially registered and operates legally.
- The business is physically located and operates in the United States or its territories.
- The business's credit must be sound enough to assure loan repayment.
- The requested loan is unavailable on reasonable terms from non-government sources.
Additionally, you'll need to be a for-profit business operating in the U.S., have invested equity into the business, and be able to demonstrate a need for financing. You'll also need to show your creditworthiness and be a small business as defined by the SBA.
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Benefits and Features
SBA-guaranteed loans offer competitive terms, with rates and fees comparable to non-guaranteed loans.
Some SBA loans come with continued support to help you start and run your business, including counseling and education.
You can use SBA loans for a variety of purposes, such as seasonal financing, export loans, revolving credit, refinanced business debt, or purchasing assets like furniture, real estate, machinery, equipment, construction, or remodeling.
With an SBA loan, you can enjoy longer terms to increase cash flow, down payments as low as 10%, and no balloon payments.
Here are some key features of SBA loans:
Benefits of Guaranteed
SBA-guaranteed loans offer some amazing benefits that can help your business thrive. One of the main advantages is that they often have competitive terms, with rates and fees that are comparable to non-guaranteed loans.
You can use SBA-guaranteed loans for a variety of purposes, including seasonal financing, export loans, revolving credit, and refinanced business debt. They can also be used to finance purchases like furniture, real estate, machinery, equipment, construction, and remodeling.
These loans often come with counseling and education to help you start and run your business. Some loans even offer unique benefits like lower down payments, flexible overhead requirements, and no collateral needed for some loans.
Here are some of the benefits you can expect from an SBA-guaranteed loan:
- Competitive terms: rates and fees comparable to non-guaranteed loans
- Lower down payments: as low as 10%
- No collateral needed for some loans
- Flexible overhead requirements
Overall, SBA-guaranteed loans can be a great option for small business owners who need financing for their ventures.
Why Choose Huntington?
Huntington is an SBA Preferred Lender, giving them the authority to make final decisions on most SBA loans, making the financing process easier and more efficient.
Their dedicated team of SBA specialists, underwriting, and closing teams are here to support you throughout the lending process, bringing industry knowledge and business resources to the table.
Huntington's small-town culture is nationwide, offering a welcoming and inclusive experience, making you feel like you're visiting your local bank.
With a specialized construction team, they closely monitor your project and requirements to help keep you on track.
Huntington services businesses across the United States, so whether you're within their footprint or miles outside of it, you'll receive the same outstanding service.
Expand your knowledge: Huntington National Bank Sba Loans
Loan Options and Programs
The SBA loan program offers a variety of options to help small businesses secure the funding they need. The 7(a) Loan Program is the primary business loan program, providing loan guaranties to lenders for special requirements.
You can use a 7(a) loan for a range of purposes, including acquiring or improving real estate, refinancing current business debt, and purchasing equipment or supplies. The maximum loan amount is $5 million.
Huntington Bank offers SBA loan programs to accommodate different business needs, such as financing start-up costs or real estate purchases. Their SBA specialists are ready to help.
To get an SBA loan, you'll need to meet certain eligibility factors, including your business's income, credit history, and location. Your lender will help you determine which type of loan is best suited for your needs.
Here are some types of SBA loans:
- 7(a) loan: Provides loan guaranties for special requirements
- 7(a) WCP loan: A pilot loan program offering monitored lines of credit
- SBA franchise loan: For franchise businesses
- SBA startup loan: For new businesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SBA loan is easiest to get approved for?
The Express loan is the easiest SBA loan to get approved for, with a streamlined process that allows lenders to quickly evaluate and approve small business loans. This makes it a great option for businesses that need fast access to capital.
Is it hard to get an SBA loan right now?
Getting an SBA loan requires meeting specific criteria and approval from a lender, making it a challenging process. While the SBA doesn't directly make loans, it provides a guarantee for approved lenders, making it a more secure option for borrowers.
What disqualifies you from getting an SBA loan?
To qualify for an SBA loan, you must have a good credit history, sufficient collateral or equity investment, and a solid business plan in place. If you lack these key factors, you may be disqualified from receiving an SBA loan.
Sources
- https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans
- https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/7a-loans
- https://www.huntington.com/SmallBusiness/loans/sba-guarantee-business-loans
- https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/small-business/small-business-loans-sba-loans
- https://www.comerica.com/insights/business-finance/how-to-apply-for-an-sba-business-loan.html
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