How to Get Unsecured Business Loans

Unsecured business loans are loans that do not require the borrower to provide a collateral or security, unlike secured business loans that require collateral. By not providing collateral, a business avoids the risk of losing its assets if it is unable to repay the loan. However, lenders make up for the high risk of the loan through high-interest rates. Besides, these loans require personal guarantees and filing liens.

Unsecured loans are an advantage to businesses that do not have assets to put as collateral. This article will give details related to unsecured business loans, risks and benefits that come with unsecured business loans.

Advantages of Unsecured Business Loans

• The business does not need to incur the risk of providing an asset as collateral, such as vehicles and other properties.
• The loan underwriting process of acquiring a loan is easier since the borrower does not need to document any collateral.

Disadvantages of Unsecured Loan

• The interest rates for unsecured loans are usually high.
• Businesses with poor credit scores may incur substantial debt in loans due to high-interest rates.

How Unsecured Business Loans Work?

Unsecured business loans are loans that are not backed by collateral. This means that the lender does not have any assets to seize if the borrower defaults on the loan. This makes unsecured business loans riskier for lenders.

Unsecured business loans typically have higher interest rates and fees than secured business loans. This is because the lender is taking on more risk by lending money to a business without collateral. However, unsecured business loans can be a good option for businesses that do not have any assets to pledge as collateral or that need quick access to cash.

If you default on an unsecured business loan, the lender may take a number of actions, such as charging late fees and interest, reporting the default to the credit bureaus, sending the debt to collections, or filing a lawsuit. In addition to these consequences, defaulting on an unsecured business loan can also damage the business reputation.

The approval decision for an unsecured business loan is based on a variety of factors, including the borrower’s creditworthiness, business financials, time in business, industry, and business plan.

Types of Unsecured Business Loans

The main types of unsecured business loans are:

• Term loans: Term loans are the most common type of unsecured business loan. They provide a lump sum of cash that must be repaid over a fixed period of time, with interest. Term loans can be used for a variety of business purposes, such as expansion, working capital, and equipment financing.
• Business lines of credit: A business line of credit is similar to a credit card, but it is specifically for businesses. It provides a revolving credit limit that can be used to borrow money as needed. Business lines of credit are a good option for businesses that need access to cash to cover unexpected expenses or to finance seasonal fluctuations.
• Invoice factoring: Invoice factoring is a financing option that allows businesses to sell their unpaid invoices to a lender in exchange for cash. This can be a good option for businesses that need quick access to cash but have a long payment cycle.
• Merchant cash advances: Merchant cash advances are a type of financing that allows businesses to borrow money against their future sales. The lender typically advances the business a percentage of its future sales, and the business repays the loan with a percentage of its daily sales. Merchant cash advances can be a good option for businesses that need quick access to cash but have bad credit or limited collateral.

In addition to these main types of unsecured business loans, there are also a number of other specialized financing options available, such as:

• Equipment financing: Equipment financing is a type of financing that allows businesses to purchase equipment without having to pay the full cost upfront. The lender typically purchases the equipment and leases it to the business for a fixed period of time. At the end of the lease term, the business has the option to purchase the equipment at a depreciated value.
• Startup business loans: Startup business loans are designed to help new businesses get off the ground. They can be more difficult to qualify for than other types of business loans, as lenders typically require a detailed business plan and financial projections.
• Microloans: Microloans are small loans that are typically used by startups and small businesses to finance short-term needs, such as inventory or marketing costs. Microloans can be a good option for businesses that do not qualify for traditional business loans.

Where to Get Unsecured Business Loans

There are a variety of places where you can get an unsecured business finance. Here are a few of the most common options:

Traditional Banks

Traditional banks offer unsecured business loans, but they can be difficult to qualify for. Banks typically have strict requirements for credit score, business revenue, and time in business.

Examples of traditional banks that offer unsecured business loans:

• JPMorgan Chase
• Wells Fargo
• Bank of America
• Citibank

Online Lenders

Online lenders are often more flexible than traditional banks and may be willing to offer unsecured business loans to borrowers with lower credit scores or less time in business. However, online lenders often have higher interest rates and fees than traditional banks. Online lenders that offer unsecured business loans include the following:

• Fundbox
• OnDeck
• Lendio
• Rapid Finance

Fintech Companies

Fintech companies are a new type of lender that offers innovative financial products and services, including unsecured business finance. Fintech companies are often more willing to lend to startups and small businesses than traditional banks. They include:

• PayPal Credit
• Stripe Capital
• Bluevine
• Fundera

Government Agencies

The US Small Business Administration (SBA) offers a variety of loan programs for small businesses, including unsecured loans. SBA loans are typically easier to qualify for than traditional bank loans and have lower interest rates.

How to apply for an unsecured business loan from the SBA:

• You can apply for an SBA loan online or through a local SBA lender.
• You will need to provide the SBA with information about your business, including your financial statements, business plan, and credit history.
• The SBA will review your application and decide whether to approve your loan.

Tips for Getting Approved for an Unsecured Business Loan

Use these tips for increasing your chances of getting approved for an unsecured business loan:

• Improve your credit score. A strong credit score is one of the most important factors that lenders consider when reviewing loan applications.
• Get a business credit card. A business credit card can help you establish a business credit history and improve your credit score.
• Build a strong business plan. A business plan will help you demonstrate to the lender that your business is viable and has a good chance of success.
• Get help from a professional. If you are struggling to get an unsecured business loan on your own, you may want to consider working with a loan broker. A loan broker can help you find the best lender for your business and negotiate favorable loan terms.

Grow Your Business With Unsecured Business Loans

Unsecured business finance can be a valuable resource for businesses in the US to grow and succeed. These loans do not require you to pledge any assets as collateral. This can be a major advantage for businesses that do not have a lot of assets or that are reluctant to risk losing their assets if they default on the loan. Unsecured business loans are typically harder to qualify for than secured business loans, as lenders do not have the same level of risk.

Unsecured business loans in the US can also be used for a variety of purposes, such as financing working capital, expanding inventory, or investing in new equipment. However, there are also some drawbacks to unsecured business loans. Unsecured business loans typically have higher interest rates than secured business loans. Unsecured business loans also typically have shorter repayment terms than secured business loans. This can make it more difficult for borrowers to repay the loan, especially if they have a large loan amount.