US Business Funding Guides
Plain-English guides to lenders, eligibility, and costs — so you can walk into a funding decision already knowing the answers.
Business Loans
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Business Loan Terms and How to Apply: A Complete Guide for US Small Businesses
Business loan terms and how to apply vary significantly between traditional banks and alternative lenders, but the core process involves understanding eligibility requirements, preparing financial documentation, and submitting applications through the right channels.
UCC Liens and Personal Guarantees in US Small Business Lending: What Business Owners Need to Know
UCC liens give lenders legal claims on business assets like equipment and inventory, while personal guarantees make business owners personally responsible for loan repayment. Most small business loans require both, creating dual layers of security for lenders but significant risk exposure for borrowers.
US Business Loan Approval Checklist: What Lenders Ask For Before They Say Yes
Lenders evaluate business loan applications based on five core criteria: personal credit score (typically 600+ for alternative lenders, 680+ for banks), business revenue ($15,000+ monthly for non-bank lenders, $25,000+ for traditional banks), time in business (6 months minimum for alternative funding, 2+ years for banks), debt service coverage ratio of 1.15-1.35, and comprehensive financial documentation including bank statements, tax returns, and business formation documents.
Business Loan Uses: How American Small Businesses Deploy Working Capital in 2026
Business loans serve multiple strategic purposes for American small businesses, from managing cash flow gaps and purchasing inventory to funding payroll, equipment purchases, and growth initiatives. The most effective use depends on your business model, revenue patterns, and specific operational needs.
Using Retirement Accounts to Fund Your Business: Loans, Rollovers, and Tax Implications
Retirement accounts can legally fund a business through two main routes: a 401(k) loan (borrow up to $50,000 or 50% of your vested balance) or a Rollover as Business Startups (ROBS) arrangement (roll existing retirement funds into a new 401(k) that buys stock in your C corporation). Both routes carry real tax risks and compliance requirements.
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