Our loan experts will search the market and find the right loan for you.
Single form to process your application with multiple lenders for same day business loans.
You need funds, we’ve got your back – apply for direct business loans online with LoanTube.
Custom-made short term business loans and long-term loan offers from reputed lenders. Compare a variety of SME loans online with LoanTube.
Quick business loan approval – same day loans without any hiccups or lengthy paper works. We focus on your business’s financial needs you focus on its growth.
Business loans provide businesses with a lump sum of money to be repaid with interest over a specific period. Businesses submit an application with financials and credit information. Lenders evaluate and offer terms. Upon acceptance, funds are disbursed. Repayment is made through instalments with interest. Collateral may be required. Loans serve purposes like starting, expanding, or managing cash flow.
Types of Business Loans Available in the UK
Benefits and Drawbacks of Business Loans
Here are some key advantages of utilising business loans:
Drawbacks of Business Loans
Eligibility Criteria for Business Loans
Different lenders have different lending criteria, and hence, it cannot be generalised when it comes to eligibility criteria for business loans. However, below listed are a few criteria that lenders may consider:
.
Factors Affecting Your Business Loan Approval
When you apply for a business loan, the lenders will assess it and come to a decision based on the information shared by you in the application. Hence, ensure that all the information is accurate so that the chances of your application being turned down are lower. Listed below are a few factors that may impact your business loan approval:
Necessary Documents for Business Loan Application
When you apply for a business loan, lenders will require you to share some documents so that they can assess your profile. Check with the lender you are applying to and understand what documents you need to provide. Below is a common list of documents that you may be asked by the lender:
Applying for a Business Loan
When applying for a business loan, gather essential documents: a comprehensive business plan, recent financial statements, bank statements, tax returns, legal documentation, collateral evidence, licenses/permits, personal identification, references/testimonials, and a clear loan purpose and repayment plan. Check with the lender for specific requirements, fill in their application form and hit submit.
There are different types of business loans that you can apply for as per your business goals. Understand various types of loans available for business before applying to help you find the best option for your goals.
Start-up Loans for New Business
Startup loans provide financial support to entrepreneurs starting or growing their businesses. These loans range from £500 to £25,000 and feature favourable interest rates and repayment terms. Applicants must present a viable business plan and pass credit and affordability assessments.
Small Business Loans
Small business loans are a common type of financing option for entrepreneurs and small business owners. These loans are typically offered by banks, financial institutions, and alternative lenders. They provide funding to support various business needs, such as working capital, equipment purchases, expansion, or inventory. The terms, interest rates, and eligibility criteria for small business loans can vary among lenders. It’s advisable to compare options from different lenders to find the best loan for your specific business requirements and financial situation.
Equipment Financing Loans
Equipment financing loans help businesses acquire necessary equipment by providing funding for purchase or lease. The equipment serves as collateral, resulting in favourable terms and rates. Lenders include banks, manufacturers, specialized lenders, and leasing companies. Research and compare options to find the best financing solution while managing cash flow effectively.
Invoice Financing Loans
Invoice financing loans are a funding option that allows businesses to improve cash flow by leveraging their unpaid invoices. With invoice financing, businesses can borrow a percentage of the outstanding invoice value from a lender. There are two main types: invoice factoring, where the lender manages the sales ledger and collects payments directly from customers, and invoice discounting, where businesses maintain control over the collection process. Both options provide immediate access to working capital, which can be used for various business needs.
Expansion and Growth Loans
Expansion and growth loans are specifically designed to provide funding for businesses seeking to expand and pursue growth opportunities. These loans enable businesses to finance initiatives such as opening new locations, investing in additional inventory or equipment, hiring more employees, or launching new products or services. They are offered by various banks, financial institutions, and alternative lenders, each with its own terms and conditions.
Commercial Mortgages
Commercial mortgages finance non-residential properties, like offices, retail spaces, and hotels. Loan terms range from 5 to 30 years. Amount, rate, and repayment depend on creditworthiness, property value, and loan-to-value ratio. Applicants provide financial statements, plans, and property details. Monthly repayments include principal and interest. Lenders may require a 20% to 40% deposit.
Before you sign up the contract and agree to get into a legal setup, you need to understand the loan amount you can borrow for your business and the terms of repayment. It will help you manage the loan efficiently.
Determining the Loan Amount you can Borrow
The loan amount you can borrow depends on factors like income, credit history, existing financial commitments, and lender criteria. Lenders assess your income, expenses, and debts. Creditworthiness, including a good credit score, is crucial. Loan purpose and loan-to-value ratio may also influence the amount.
Repayment Period and Options
Loan repayment periods and options in the UK vary based on loan type and lender terms. Short-term loans are repaid in a few months to a year, medium-term loans in one to five years, and long-term loans in five to 30 years or longer. Monthly instalments cover principal and interest. Flexible options may include interest-only or seasonal adjustments. Amortization is common, ensuring full repayment by the end of the term.
Interest Rates and APR for Business Loans
Business loan interest rates vary from 2% to 15% or higher, depending on factors like lender, loan type, creditworthiness, and term. APRs range from 5% to 50% or higher, considering interest rates and fees. Loan type, creditworthiness, and loan term also influence the rates.
Impact of Loan Amount and Repayment Terms on Affordability
Loan affordability is influenced by the loan amount, repayment terms, and interest rate. Larger loan amounts result in higher monthly repayments. Longer repayment terms lower monthly repayments but increase overall interest costs. Striking a balance is important. Higher interest rates increase borrowing costs and monthly payments. Assessing financial stability, budgeting, and future goals is crucial in determining affordability.
There are various types of interest rates and you must know each one of them to choose an option that suits your financial and business needs.
Fixed Rate Vs. Variable Rate Business Loans
Fixed-rate business loans offer stable interest rates and predictable monthly payments, aiding budgeting and planning. Variable-rate loans have rates tied to reference rates, subject to change, providing lower initial rates but uncertainty. Choosing between them depends on risk tolerance, market conditions, and stability or flexibility needs.
Factors Influencing Interest Rates
The decisions made by the Bank of England regarding the base interest rate play a significant role, as changes in the base rate can impact borrowing costs throughout the country. Interest rates are influenced by factors such as inflation, economic conditions (GDP growth, employment, business confidence), the creditworthiness of borrowers, market competition, and global financial market conditions.
Annual Percentage Rate (APR)
The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for business loans can vary depending on factors such as the lender, loan type, borrower’s creditworthiness, and loan terms. The APR represents the total cost of borrowing, including interest and fees, expressed as an annual percentage. Business loan APRs typically range from around 3% to 30% or higher.
Loan Arrangement Fees and Other Charges
Borrowers should consider additional fees and charges associated with loans, such as arrangement fees, early repayment charges, late payment fees, overdraft fees, and exit fees. Review loan agreements to understand specific charges and assess the total borrowing cost.
You will get a lot of options for choosing a business loan provider. To help you choose better, we have listed down the various options that are available to finance your business.
Banks and Financial Institutions
There are several banks and financial institutions in the United Kingdom that offer business loans to support the financing needs of businesses.
Online Lenders Specialising in Business Loans
You can also choose to move your business loan application forward with online lenders who specialise in business loans. Before you send in your application, check if the lender is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Do not get involved with lenders or credit brokers who are not authorised by the FCA.
Government-Backed Business Loan Schemes
The government of the UK offers various types of loans to businesses that can help them stay afloat in the market.
Alternative Financing Options for Businesses
If you are not sure about the above options, you may consider the below alternatives as well:
Importance of a Solid Business Plan
A business plan is vital, serving as a strategic roadmap for entrepreneurs and businesses. It demonstrates viability, attracts funding, and guides operations. It assesses feasibility, evaluates the market, and identifies risks and opportunities. It aligns stakeholders, enhances performance, and enables adaptability. A solid plan ensures long-term success and sustainability.
Including Financial Projections in Loan Applications
Financial projections are crucial in loan applications. They demonstrate repayment capacity, assess feasibility, and evaluate profitability. Accurate projections support loan structuring and business planning. Including well-researched projections enhances credibility and improves the chances of loan approval.
Demonstrating the Viability and Profitability of the Business
To demonstrate business viability, follow these steps: develop a comprehensive business plan, provide realistic financial projections and historical data, conduct a thorough market analysis, highlight competitive advantage and marketing strategies, showcase team qualifications, present customer case studies, ensure compliance, and outline fund utilization. By effectively demonstrating these factors, credibility is enhanced, increasing chances of securing financing and support.
Preparing a Compelling Loan Application Package
When preparing a loan application package, include an executive summary, detailed business plan, financial statements, and a clear explanation of fund utilization. Analyze your industry and market, and emphasize competitive advantage and growth potential. Highlight management team qualifications and provide credit histories. Attach supporting documents and consider references/testimonials. Tailor the package to the lender’s requirements. A well-prepared package enhances the chances of securing financing.
Secured Vs. Unsecured Business Loans
Business loans can be secured or unsecured. Secured loans require collateral, enabling higher amounts and longer terms with lower rates. Unsecured loans don’t require collateral but have lower amounts, shorter terms, and higher rates. Choosing depends on the financial position, available collateral, borrowing needs, and risk tolerance.
Collateral Requirements for Secured Loans
Secured loans require collateral to secure the loan and provide assurance to the lender. Common types of collateral accepted for secured loans include property, business assets, personal assets, and cash deposits. The value of the collateral determines the loan amount that can be secured, and lenders may assess the collateral’s worth through a valuation process. It is important for borrowers to carefully consider the collateral requirements and ensure they are willing and able to provide the necessary collateral.
Personal Guarantees and Their Implications
A personal guarantee is a legally binding agreement where an individual takes on personal responsibility for repaying a business loan. The guarantor’s personal assets are at risk if there’s a default. Lenders often require personal guarantees to mitigate risk.
Impact on Personal Assets and Creditworthiness
Defaulting on loans or experiencing financial difficulties can lead to the seizure or forced sale of personal assets and negatively impact creditworthiness. Credit scores may decrease, making it harder to access credit or obtain favourable terms. Responsible debt management, timely payments, and seeking financial advice are essential to protect assets and maintain good credit.
Working Capital Loans
Working capital loans provide short-term funding for day-to-day operations and cash flow management. They cover expenses like inventory, payroll, and rent. Loan terms and amounts vary based on creditworthiness. Interest rates depend on factors such as creditworthiness and loan type. Businesses can apply with banks, online lenders, or alternative sources, providing financial statements. These loans offer flexibility and help maintain operational stability.
Equipment and Machinery Financing
Equipment and machinery financing helps businesses acquire necessary assets through loans, leases, or hire purchase agreements. Loan terms depend on equipment value, and rates vary based on creditworthiness and financing options. Collateral may be required.
Inventory Financing
Inventory financing helps businesses secure funds for purchasing, managing, and growing inventory. Options include lines of credit, short-term loans, and supply chain financing. Loan terms depend on inventory value and turnover. You may require to provide collateral.
Real Estate Financing
Real estate financing enables property acquisition, development, or refinancing. Options include mortgages, buy-to-let loans, and commercial property loans. Loan terms depend on property value, income, and creditworthiness. Financing is secured by the property. Interest rates vary based on loan type and creditworthiness. Banks, lenders, and brokers offer financing.
Business Acquisition and Expansion Loans
Business acquisition and expansion loans fund the purchase of existing businesses or growth initiatives. Options include term loans and lines of credit. Loan terms depend on business size, value, and borrower’s financials. Collateral and rates vary by lender and loan type. Banks, online lenders, and specialized institutions offer these loans.
Government-Backed Loan Schemes
Grant Programs for Small Businesses
Tax Incentives and Relief for Businesses
Finding and Applying for Government Support
Here is how you can find and apply for the right government support for your business:
Importance of Business and Personal Credit Scores
Credit scores are vital for businesses and individuals. Strong business credit scores enhance financing and supplier terms, while personal credit scores affect loan applications, mortgage rates, and credit card approvals. They may be considered by landlords and employers. Maintaining good scores requires responsible financial management and timely payments. Monitoring credit reports is crucial. Prioritizing credit score maintenance and improvement enables better financial opportunities and demonstrates creditworthiness.
Building and Improving Creditworthiness
If you think you need to improve your credit score, the following tips might help you to build your score:
Impact of Credit History on Loan Approval and Terms
Positive credit history is vital for loan approval and favourable terms. It demonstrates creditworthiness, influences interest rates, and can impact loan amount and repayment options. Maintaining a positive credit history is essential for accessing better financing opportunities.
Steps to Maintain a Healthy Credit Profile
Developing a Loan Repayment Plan
Developing a loan repayment plan involves careful financial planning. Start by reviewing the loan terms, including interest rates and repayment schedule. Assess your financial situation, create a realistic budget, and allocate a portion of your income towards loan repayments. Prioritize high-interest debts and consider making overpayments to reduce overall interest and shorten the loan term.
Cash Flow Management for Loan Repayments
Effective cash flow management for loan repayments involves budgeting, forecasting cash flows, prioritizing payments, managing expenses, communicating with the lender, monitoring cash flow, and building emergency reserves. By implementing these strategies, borrowers can ensure timely loan repayments and maintain financial stability.
Early Repayment Options and Penalties
Early repayment options and penalties vary depending on the loan agreement and lender. Some loans allow early repayment without penalties, while others may impose fees or charges. Fixed-rate loans generally have fewer penalties, while variable-rate loans may have applicable charges. Mortgage loans often have significant penalties, especially during fixed or discounted-rate periods. Borrowers should review the loan agreement and communicate with the lender to understand the specific terms and potential penalties for early repayment.
Strategies for Managing Business Finances Effectively
You choose the terms, we do the math.
Check your affordibility with our Business Loan calculator and make an informed financial decision.
Calculate monthly payments
Oops! Please enter a valid loan amount and term.
Indicative Loan Details
Loan Amount
Loan Term
Total repayment
Monthly repayment
RAPR
Interest
*The rate you get will depend on your individual, financial circumstances. Late repayment can cause you serious money problems. For more information, go to moneyhelper.org.uk.
Supporting all your financial needs through thick and thin.
Fill up a quick application to find the right deals for your:
Get same day business loans at best rates.
Experience hassle-free borrowing and unmatched transparency with LoanTube
Business loans are a form of financing that provides businesses with a lump sum of money to be repaid over a specified period, typically with interest. They can be used for various purposes, and terms and conditions vary based on the lender and borrower’s creditworthiness.
A business loan functions by providing financing to a business to meet its financial requirements. The process involves the business applying for a loan, the lender evaluating the business’s creditworthiness and determining the loan terms and conditions. Once approved, the loan agreement is signed, and the funds are disbursed to the business. The business then repays the loan over a specified period, including both principal and interest.
To qualify for a business loan, businesses typically need to meet the following requirements: a minimum operating period, sufficient revenue and financial stability, good creditworthiness, a well-structured business plan, personal and business financial statements, and potential collateral. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee approval, as lenders evaluate applications individually.
The amount you can borrow with a business loan depends on several factors, including the lender, the type of loan, your business’s financial health, and the purpose of the loan. The loan amount is typically determined based on factors such as your business’s revenue, creditworthiness, industry, and collateral. It’s important to approach lenders, provide detailed information about your business, and discuss your specific funding needs to determine the maximum loan amount you may be eligible for.
Interest rates for business loans can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of loan, the lender, the borrower’s creditworthiness, the loan term, and current market conditions. Generally, interest rates for business loans can range from around 2% to 20% or higher. Rates may be fixed or variable, and they can be influenced by factors such as the Bank of England base rate, the lender’s risk assessment, and the loan’s repayment term.
Business loan repayment periods in the UK can range from 1 to 10+ years, depending on the loan type and lender.
Getting a business loan with bad credit can be challenging, but not impossible. Explore lenders, consider secured loans or loans with a guarantor, work on improving your credit score, emphasize a strong business plan and cash flow, and explore collateral or asset-based loan options. While traditional lenders may be hesitant, these strategies can increase your chances of securing financing despite bad credit.
A business loan can be used for various purposes, including starting a new business, business expansion, working capital needs, equipment and machinery purchases, inventory management, marketing and advertising, renovations and upgrades, debt consolidation, business acquisitions, and professional services.
Business loan types include term loans, revolving credit facilities, invoice financing, equipment financing, asset-based loans, Small Business Administration loans, startup loans, commercial mortgages, bridging loans, and merchant cash advances. Each loan type serves different financing needs and has its own features and eligibility criteria.
Yes, there are government-backed business loan schemes in the United Kingdom, including the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme, Bounce Back Loan Scheme, Start Up Loans, Enterprise Finance Guarantee Scheme, and Innovate UK Loans.
When applying for a business loan, you typically need to provide a business plan, financial statements, bank statements, tax returns, legal documentation, collateral documentation, personal identification, business licenses and permits, and references. The specific documents required may vary.
The time to get approved for a business loan varies. It can take from a few days to several weeks, depending on factors such as the lender, loan amount, application complexity, and provided documentation. Alternative lenders may offer faster approval, while traditional banks may have a longer review process.
Fees and charges associated with business loans include interest rates, arrangement or origination fees, application fees, early repayment penalties, late payment fees, and annual or monthly service fees. The specific fees and charges depend on the lender, loan type, and terms of the loan agreement.
The requirement for collateral to obtain a business loan depends on the lender and loan type. Some loans may require collateral, while others, such as unsecured loans, do not.
Yes, as a sole trader or self-employed individual, you can typically apply for a business loan. Prepare necessary documentation and approach lenders who cater to sole traders and self-employed individuals to increase approval chances.
Yes, you can use a business loan to start a new business.
Yes, you can use a business loan to purchase equipment or vehicles for your business. Equipment financing loans are specifically designed for this purpose, allowing you to spread the cost over time and use the equipment or vehicles as collateral for the loan.
Yes, you can refinance your existing business loans. By refinancing, you can potentially secure a lower interest rate, extend the repayment term, or consolidate multiple loans into a single loan, which can help improve your cash flow and reduce your overall borrowing costs.
If you can’t repay your business loan, it can lead to default, late payment fees, legal action, collateral seizure, credit damage, and negative business impacts.
To choose the right lender for your business loan, consider factors such as competitive interest rates and fees, suitable loan amounts and terms, eligibility criteria, positive reputation and reviews, responsive customer service, flexibility in loan options, online capabilities, additional resources, and referrals or recommendations from trusted sources. Comparing lenders based on these factors can help you find the best fit for your business loan needs.
LoanTube helps UK firms access business finance through multiple direct lenders. We are an introducer and do not provide loans ourselves.
Think carefully before securing debts against your home or your assets. Your home and assets may be repossessed if you fail to keep up with repayments on debts secured against it.
All loan approvals & quotes are subject to credit checks and affordability requirements by lenders. If your business meet the lender’s criterion, you can borrow the money. We as a broker make an attempt to process your application with the most suitable lenders in our panel.
LoanTube is a credit broker and not a lender.
Warning: Late repayment can cause you serious money problems. For more information, go to moneyhelper.org.uk
LoanTube Business Model: As part of our business operations, we connect customers with partner lenders to help them find suitable loan options. LoanTube receives a commission from lenders for this service, which may, in some cases, affect the cost of the loan to the customer. However, as a responsible broker, we are committed to identifying the best possible loan options for our customers.
The rate you are offered will depend on your individual circumstances.
Representative APR Example: Amount of credit: £50,000 for 24 months at £2,339.38 per month. Total amount repayable of £57,348.69 Interest: £7,348.69 Interest rate: 14.4% pa (fixed).
14.4% APR Representative. Loan term lengths between 3 and 60 months.