Introduction
The need for pledging collateral for loans does not work for everyone seeking loans. Not all loans are the same, and not all come with the need to pledge securities. With many businesses launching each year, financiers are competing to offer the best-possible finance solution to business customers. Secured and unsecured loans are the main loan options for businesses.
What is an Unsecured Business Loan?
An unsecured business loan is a type of finance offered to businesses without the borrower requiring to pledge the collateral. Financial institutions offer this type of loan after considering the creditworthiness of the business. This helps businesses that do not want to put their business assets or real estate on hold with the financier gain easy access to capital.
Features
Unsecured business loans come with the following features:
With many lenders owning an online presence, these loans are approved and processed quickly. Once approved, money is usually disbursed within 48 hours.
Timely re-payment will help improve the credit score of those with an unsatisfactory credit history and score.
In secured loans, lenders consider the loan-to-value of the asset being pledged, and a certain percentage of the value will be given out as loan amount. With unsecured loans, the lender considers your business health, cash flow, and personal and business creditworthiness to decide the loan amount.
Unsecured business loans can have fixed or flexible interest rates, and the decision is mainly dependent on the lender. A fixed-rate loan provides more stability, as it eases the calculation of monthly payments and also helps you figure out your ability to pay that amount. Those with a good credit score can avail loans with attractive interest rates. The other factors that influence the rate of interest are the loan amount, loan tenure, and business history.
Most unsecured loans come with flexible repayment options and tenures. In most cases, the loans are offered for short tenures of up to 3 years, enabling faster pay-off.
What to expect when applying for an unsecured business loan?
When you finally decide not to temporarily part with your assets, and instead prefer to apply for an unsecured personal loan, other procedures await you before you can avail the funds. However, lenders have eased the way these processes are undertaken. As a borrower, first you need to decide on the required amount. Once you have a figure in mind, do the following:
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Look for the right lender
Since your loan amount and eligibility is mainly dependent on the lender you choose, you must choose one wisely and after thorough research. Consider the lender’s reputation, processing times, interest rates, and processing fee, if any.
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Check your eligibility
Each lender has different eligibility criteria to approve loans. Shortlist a few reputed lenders and check your eligibility with each one. Go with the financial institutions who offers a good loan amount at an attractive interest rate and allows flexible terms.
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Prepare all supporting documents
Keep all the necessary documents ready at hand before approaching a lender. That includes your important business records and documents. Requisites to apply for a loan vary from lender to lender. Having these documents ready will help lenders analyse them faster and render solutions faster.
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Be thorough in your application form
Your loan-application form accompanies the list of documents you submit. Ensure you complete the form diligently and carefully to avoid disapprovals.
Following the list of documents you submit and the forms you sign, you need to wait for the lender’s approval, which in most cases, comes about quickly. No matter who you choose, it is important you understand their terms and conditions and the costs involved before going the way of loans.
