Capital is indispensable to running a company, regardless of age and size. However, if you fall short of funds for smooth business operations, a Business Loan will provide instant money for business sustenance. When applying for a loan, it’s crucial to understand what your Business Loan application form must contain to convince the lenders. Putting together the right combination of facts and figures will showcase your repayment capacity and assure them of your financial stability and security.
In the following sections, examine a few essential Business Loan application components.
Cover Letter
While new-age lending institutions support online loan procedures that require simply filling out an online application form, some still demand a cover letter. It is like an introduction to your business, performance, plans, and financial requirements. When applying for a loan, mention why you need funds, how much, and the intended purpose of borrowing.
Business Plan
After explaining the business, the lender would like to assess your firm’s growth potential in the industry and your plan to achieve the goals. A strong business plan entails details about the company’s description, management team, background information, market strategy, market analysis, future projections, target audience, etc. Provide supporting documents like balance sheets to show past performance. Loan providers seek solid information in your Business Loan application form before approval.
Credit Report
When you apply for a commercial loan, the lenders will check your credit history to evaluate your credit habits and repayment capacity. Therefore, attaching these reports with the loan application will make loan processing easier and faster for the lenders. A good credit score makes you eligible for a higher loan amount at lower interest rates.
Amount and Purpose of Loan
The lender wants to know how much of the loan amount you seek and how you intend to use it. While they will determine your loan amount based on your financial performance, credit history, and other factors, mentioning the loan purpose helps the lender make an informed lending decision.
Legal Documents
Lenders want to ensure your company has all the necessary licenses and is not stuck in legal issues. So, your Business Loan application form must include Bank statements, Business registration proof, Proprietor(s) PAN card and Aadhaar card, company PAN card, partnership deed, business registration certificate, GST filing, Gumastadhara, trade license, drug license, TIN, VAT registration, etc. The documentation requirements may vary between lenders, but here’s a drift.
Collateral
While many lending institutions provide collateral-free Business Loan these days, offering collateral with the Business Loan application form is a nice way to improve loan eligibility and get better terms and conditions. Collateral also makes it a secured loan, reducing the lender’s risk and, finally, the interest rate. The list of assets you can use as collateral includes home equity, invoice receivables, equipment, bonds and stocks, inventory, etc. Prove the asset’s worth with proper documents and include them in your application.
Other Debts
If you are already servicing other loans, disclose their correct details in the Business Loan application form. Although the outstanding debt and DTI ratio might hamper your new loan amount, rate, and conditions, hiding them will worsen the situation and attract an outright rejection without any scope for negotiation. In any case, you cannot hide them from the lenders, as they will eventually check your credit history before approving your loan.
If you are already indebted, the lender may not lend another due to the high risk of missed EMIs and loan default. In such a situation, consider refinancing your loan, where you can replace existing debt with a more cost-efficient loan plan and request a top-up.
Financial History and Statements
Financial records reveal a company’s performance in the industry. That’s why lending institutions check them to ensure the company is in good condition and generates a decent profit. Loan providers use these statements to evaluate your average finances. They sanction the loan after ensuring a good cash cushion and growth potential. So, keep a few months of financial records ready to submit with your Business Loan application form.
Team Details
A company’s team members are crucial to its performance and growth. Whether you are running a sole proprietorship or a partnership firm, include details of all key members, including the management team and employees. You may also include consultants who are important in your business decisions. List their names, responsibilities, and background to convince lenders of their calibre.
Now that you understand the significance of a Business Loan application form, give importance to each point and adhere to them when applying. Ensure accuracy in the application form to prove your credentials and get a commercial loan in no time. Moreover, it reflects your professionalism and business acumen, attracting the desired loan amount at lower interest rates.
