Your Business Line of Credit
What is a Line of Credit for Businesses?
A business line of credit is like a financial safety net offered by banks or lenders. It gives businesses access to funds up to a set amount that they can borrow whenever they need it. Unlike a regular loan where you get a lump sum all at once, with a line of credit, you can take out money as you need it, up to the approved limit. You only pay interest on the amount you borrow, and once you repay what you’ve taken out, that money becomes available to borrow again. It’s handy for managing cash flow ups and downs, covering unexpected costs, or seizing opportunities to grow without having to reapply for a loan each time.
What are the basic requirements for a line of credit?
Credit Score
Most Lenders Require a minimum credit score of 600
Time in Business
Many lenders want to see at least two years in business under the current ownership
Revenue Requirements
Many lenders require a minimum of $10,000 monthly, though there are some that only require $5,000 per month.
Terms, Rates and Fees:
Business lines of credit have varying repayment periods depending on the lender, spanning from a few months up to three years. Certain lines of credit may renew on an annual basis.
The typical minimum amount to take out on a business line of credit is around $5,000
Draw fee: $0 to 5% of the withdrawn amount
Monthly Fees: $0 to $50, depending on the amount of credit granted
Origination fee: $0 to 4% of the loan amount
How to choose the best line of credit for your business
We conducted a thorough assessment of leading small business lenders to identify the optimal business lines of credit. Our evaluation criteria included:
- Accessibility for businesses at various stages, from startups to those established for at least 24 months.
- Personal credit score requirements ranging from 600+
- Competitive rates, transparent terms, minimal fees, and flexible repayment options.
- Availability of diverse credit amounts and potential APR discounts.
- Reputation, reliability of customer service, and additional benefits such as access to business coaching.
Business Line of Credit vs a Traditional Business Loan
A business line of credit operates similarly to a short-term or emergency loan, providing flexibility for various business expenses. Unlike a traditional loan, a small business line of credit offers immediate access to funds without the obligation to use the entire amount. For handling long-term expenses, a working capital loan might be more suitable, as it usually features fixed interest rates compared to the variable rates of business lines of credit, which can also influence your decision.