How To Choose A Reliable Business Line Of Credit

By Margaret Gray


Businesses depend on liquidity to fund their daily activities. However, it is sometimes difficult to have fluid cash because of the nature of your operations. This pushes you towards business line of credit. This is a bank facility that will allow you to access cash even though your bank balance is not sufficient. With numerous banks offering such facilities, how do you choose the best partner to work with?

What fees are being charged and at what rate will you repay the money? Different lenders offer rates and fees that vary. Compare these fees to determine who is offering the best package. Be cautious to avoid lenders who are out to fleece you. It should be a minimal reasonable amount that you can afford without taking up most of the money you have earned.

What is the speed of accessing the money? Upon making an application, it should be easy to get the funds to your account. You need the money to run your operations at a particular time. If the money is delayed, your operations will be grounded. The lender must therefore release money as soon as possible. It is useless to get the money late or when yours has already hit the account. Upon application or request, it should take the shortest time to have the money you need.

How is your business evaluated in order to qualify? All lenders will require that you meet particular conditions. They classify lenders in terms of groups based on turn-over, flow of funds and ability to repay, among others. Get a lender who understands your operational model and is ready to craft a package in line with your operations. This enables you to get favorable terms.

What terms have been given for making repayments? Are they considerate of your business operations? The terms should point at the period you have to repay the money and how much you will pay in installments. It is only reasonable that your flow of finances is considered in determining the schedule. Punitive terms that disadvantage you and give an upper hand to the bank must be avoided.

Is the lender asking for collateral before advancing any money? This is a common approach whenever lenders are advancing money. However, line of credit is different from a loan. You have already established a working relationship with the lender. This calls for more lenient terms that do not have to demand for punitive collateral.

Is the amount offered sufficient for your business and operations? Needs will vary from time to time. However, you should have a limit that is favorable to your operations. The amount is determined by credit score, level of transaction and amount you need from time to time. If the amount is not enough, you might be forced to get money from multiple lenders. This is an expensive approach.

The most reliable providers of line of credit for any business is one who is flexible. Predicting financial flow is difficult and requires the cushion of a lender. Obtain the details of packages offered by different lenders to determine the financier offering the best package.




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