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Business loans are lending products designed to help business owners fund business operations, purchase stock, pay staff, manage cash flow or expand.
The right business loan can keep your business afloat when you're dealing with seasonal cash flow or just short on cash. It could also help you seize on an opportunity and grow your business to new heights.
Unlike a personal loan, a business loan must be specifically for business or investment purposes. To get a loan approved the lender considers the performance and history of your business, plus your own credit history.
How do business loans work?
You can get a business loan from most Australian banks or from online business lenders.
The amount you can borrow, your interest rate and whether you need security all depend on your lender's requirements and your business's size, needs and financial position.
Things that will affect how your business loan works are:
Security. With a secured business loan you could offer a business asset or property as collateral. You can get a lower interest rate in return.
Eligibility. Many lenders require your business to have been operating for 1 to 2 years, with financial records for that time. Lenders examine cash flow projections, business activity statements and conduct credit checks on company directors.
Loan type. Some business loans provide you with a single lump sum, which you pay off over time like any loan. But there are business overdrafts that let you spend beyond what's in your bank account to cover shortfalls, or lines of credit that let you spend money flexibly.
Interest rate. You can get business loans with fixed or variable interest rates from most lenders. Secured business loans have the most competitive rates.
Which type of business loan is best for my business?
Choosing the right business loan depends on your business and what you're trying to achieve.
Business term loans
The most straightforward business loan, where you apply for a loan and receive the funds in a lump sum. You can get secured and unsecured business loans for flexible amounts, and can receive a variable or fixed interest . These loans are useful when you're trying to cover large expenses.
Example: Samantha needs a variable rate business loan
Samantha runs a catering business. She needs to borrow $60,000 to cover a kitchen expansion. Samantha needs a single lump sum. But she also wants the ability to repay the loan quickly. She expects her revenue to increase as a result of the expansion and wants to clear the debt sooner.
She opts for a business loan with a variable interest rate, as variable rates tend to come with no early repayment fees.
Business line of credit
A business line of credit gives you a pool of money that you can withdraw and pay off whenever you want. Once you're approved for a line of credit you can spend money flexibly, up to the credit limit amount. You only pay interest on the money you withdraw, not the overall limit you're approved for.
This is useful for businesses that have to cover multiple smaller expenses over time or have seasonal spikes and dips in revenue.
Example: Glen needs a line of credit
Glen runs a landscaping business with 5 employees. He's approaching a quiet few months for the business and wants to have money on hand to cover a few expenses he has been putting off.
On top of paying his employees, he wants to renovate his office and upgrade his equipment. He takes out a line of credit, and is able to get a quote for his upgrades and withdraw that exact amount each time.
When his cash runs low during this quiet season, he also withdraws money in order to meet payroll. When business picks up, he pays off his withdrawals and is able to reuse that credit the next year.
Business vehicle finance
Loans to cover the purchase of business vehicles including cars and trucks. These come with a range of options, such as leasing the vehicles or buying the vehicles outright. They can be used to buy individual vehicles or an entire fleet.
Invoice financing lets you use outstanding invoices, which represent future payments, to get cash when you need it now. A cut of the outstanding invoice is paid to the lender in return for the upfront funds.
Business overdraft
If you have a business bank account you can get an approved overdraft limit to borrow beyond what's in the account. This is useful to cover brief cash flow shortfalls that are not predictable enough to require a line of credit.
Business credit cards
Business credit cards let you cover business expenses now and pay them off over time. Useful for sole traders, small businesses, or to fund the business needs of trusted staff.
Business loans for startups and small businesses
Startups and very small businesses might find it harder to get a business loan because they likely have fewer assets, less consistent cash flow or, in a startup's case, no established track record of business activity.
Startups
There are business loans that cater to start ups, but in general lenders only lend to startups who have been running for at least 6-12 months and meet certain revenue figures and financial crtieria.
Because new, unproven businesses are riskier customers these loans will have higher interest rates.
There are also business groups like Tech Ready Women who offer funding for startups and expansion.
Small businesses
Small businesses will find it easier to get a business loan approved if:
You have a good personal credit score.
You have a clear plan for how to use the funds.
Your business has been operating for several years and has detailed financial records.
You can secure the loan against commercial or personal property.
How to compare business loans
Even when you've decided which type of business loan your business needs, there are still other things to consider before landing on the right loan for you.
Interest rates
Business loan interest rates will vary depending on your lender, your loan type, and your own (and your business's) financial position. You can choose between a variable rate or a fixed rate. Lenders can move their variable rates in line with the cash rate and you have more flexibility to make extra repayments. Fixed rates stay the same for the life of the loan, but you generally can't make extra repayments.
Fees
Factor in the cost of loan fees along with the interest payments to know the true cost of the loan.
The most common business loan fees include:
Establishment fee: Many lenders charge a one-off, upfront establishment or origination fee. This fee is often a percentage of the loan amount. A 3% establishment fee on a $300,000 business loan would cost you $9,000.
Monthly or annual account keeping fees: Some lenders charge a smaller ongoing fee to maintain the loan account.
Late fee: If you miss a loan repayment your lender may charge you a fee.
Extra repayment fee: Some loans, typically fixed rate loans, don't let you make extra repayments to the loan or charge a fee for doing so.
Security
If you have a commercial or residential property to offer as security you can get a loan with a lower interest rate.
Loan term
Longer loan terms suit larger loan amounts. Longer terms also mean smaller monthly repayments but more interest charged over time. Shorter terms increase your monthly repayments but you pay less interest.
Loan flexibility
Look for a flexible loan. If you can repay a loan early you can save money. Flexible business loans let you redraw extra repayments in an emergency.
Your business
Ask yourself what your business needs the loan for, how established your business is and what the business financial situation is. Your business profile and situation will have an impact on what loan you choose or are approved for.
For example, if you need to cover multiple small expenses over a short time, you might look at an overdraft, line of credit or business credit card.
Our expert says: Prepare a thorough loan application
"When lenders assess your business loan application they will consider your business purpose, your historical business finances and your financial projections. They'll also consider the business credit score as well as your personal credit score and financial situation.
Because of this it's really important to do all the calculations and collate all the information to put the best application forward.
It's also a good idea to speak to your accountant or finance broker for help and support."
Prepare all your personal and business financial records and documents.
Complete the application.
Wait for the funds to reach your account.
Online business lenders can approve applications quickly. A traditional bank may take longer and you have to speak to a lending specialist from the bank first.
Documents you need for a business loan application
A valid ABN or ACN for your business.
Annual financial statements that include a balance sheet and income statement
Recent individual tax returns, an ATO notice of assessment and other details.
Credit reports for you and your business (the lender will check this).
Information about the property or asset you're offering as security.
Consider a business credit card
Get flexible business finance and earn rewards and bonuses.
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Frequently asked questions about business loans
You can get a business loan that's as small as $5,000. Some lenders will lend as much as $250,000 or even $500,000.
For larger businesses loan amounts are much higher and can run into the millions of dollars.
Yes, in many cases a lender checks a business owner or company director's credit score. Your credit history is especially important if you don't have a long, established business history or assets to support your application.
Lenders assess individual borrowers along with the business itself. For larger businesses, a lender will check a company director's credit report.
Having a good credit history is even more important for sole traders and small business owners. There are also credit scores specifically for businesses.
You can improve both personal and business credit scores by establishing a good track record of repaying debts on time, not missing bills or loan repayments and avoiding applying for too many credit products at once.
Many banks only offer business loans to borrowers who have a business account with the bank. If you're looking for a smaller loan for a new business, even having an existing personal account with a bank can make business loan approval easier.
But it's always a good idea to compare your options before making a big financial decision.
If you apply for multiple loans, the lender will make an enquiry on your credit report each time. Even for a business loan. These enquiries are recorded on your credit report and can lower your score.
Avoid applying for multiple credit products at once. Find one loan and apply. If you get rejected, work out why and fix any issues before applying again.
Debt finance means making regular repayments on money you've borrowed, with fees and interest charges. These loans are useful for long-running businesses but harder to get for startups.
Equity finance is much more flexible and you don't have to make regular repayments. But equity finance involves bringing in outside investors. You might have to give up part ownership of your company and share your future profits with the investors.
The lowdown on Finder Score
9+ Excellent - These products offer lower minimum rates and fees, coupled with attractive features, indicating overall good value.
7+ Great - Competitive products overall, however may have slightly higher minimum rates, or a couple of fees.
5+ Satisfactory - While these products might meet your business needs, watch out for higher interest rates and ongoing fees.
Less than 5 – Basic - These products usually tend to have high rates or fees and you could potentially find better options.
Digging deeper into the Finder business loans score
We analyse more than 150 business loans across multiple providers, for their interest rates, fees and features, assigning them a score out of 10. The higher the score, the more competitive the product.
The Finder Score methodology is designed by our insights and editorial team. We review products objectively. Commercial partnerships do not affect the scores.
Elizabeth Barry is an experienced journalist with over 10 years of expertise in personal finance, contributing to outlets like the ABC, Sydney Morning Herald, and 7News. She holds a Master of Arts in Creative Writing and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Technology Sydney, and has earned multiple award nominations, including a Highly Commended recognition at the 2017 Lizzies. Elizabeth began her career at Finder in 2013, progressing through roles to become Lead Editor, where she oversaw a wide range of personal finance coverage until 2024.
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i am recently retired man. i am on aged pension. i need business loan to purchase established business. i want to put some $25000 –$ 35000/ in to it from super annuation funds. i am regularly getting aged pension from centrelink.please guide me the lenders who are liberal in granting business loan to me.
NikkiJune 27, 2018
Hi Vinod!
Thanks for reaching out to us.
To apply for a business loan, generally, you will need a summary of your business’ financials, a business plan, financial forecasts (including cash flow forecasts), and your personal information. However, many new lenders simply request to log into your business’ accounting software to get this information for themselves.
You may refer to our list of Centrelink business loans to know which lender may consider you for a loan. Please click the name of the lender or the “More info” link to be redirected to our review page and learn more about the lender’s loan offer, rates, and requirements as well as the pros and cons of using their loan service. When you are ready, you may then click on the “Go to site” button and you will be redirected to the lender’s website where you can proceed with the application or get in touch with their representatives for further inquiries you may have.
Before applying, please ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and read through the details of the needed requirements as well as the relevant Product Disclosure Statements/Terms and Conditions when comparing your options before making a decision on whether it is right for you. You can also contact the provider if you have specific questions.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Nikki
ClaireApril 7, 2018
my question is l am looking for information for a business online banking account, what will be the monthly fees be to have this online account? l have obtained information from NAB and CWB that the account will be zero a month for an online account when you do not use the branch, all banking is done online. to have an OD attached to this online banking business account the fees are below for an unsecured amount.
for OD facility NAB is 14.5% with 1.75% annual fees
for OF facility with CWB 14.75% with 1.75% annual fees
what is will the account fees be with ANZ and Westpac
l cannot see where l find these on your site.
also how long back did a zero fee for online banking start with an online banking account, what year?
Finder
MayApril 9, 2018Finder
Hi Claire,
Thank you for your questions.
1. l am looking for information for a business online banking account, what will be the monthly fees be to have this online account?
Depending on the type of account, some banks have nil monthly fees, others may charge as much as $20. You may refer to our list of business bank accounts to compare your options. Most banking accounts these days can be done easily online.
3. How long back did a zero fee for online banking start with an online banking account, what year?
I’m afraid we don’t have information in that regard. But most banks offer cheaper if not zero fees on some of their online bank accounts to their customers helping them save money on monthly charges.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
May
TomFebruary 13, 2018
small business unsecured loan of 300,000. to buy an existing profitable business , with low fixed interest , no early payout fee ,over 5years approx. Have financial statements of business and $800,000. assets of my own , so could be secured loan.
Finder
RenchMarch 4, 2018Finder
Hi Tom,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Buying a business is a great undertaking and requires a lot of work. If you haven’t already, you might find our guide in buying a business useful. On the page is a comparison table you can use to find the right lender for you. Once done comparing, you may tick the “Go to Site” or to request a call click the available “Enquire now” button. Before applying for a loan, it would be good to check their eligibility requirements as well as their terms and conditions.
Best regards,
Rench
MikeAugust 31, 2017
Hello,
Just wondering if there are any finance options available for me. Right now all I have is my business plan and projections from my account. That’s it, no assets, no defaults on my credit score however I do have 3 inquiries(Business related). I’m looking for funding for my equipment, without the equipment we can’t start. Is there any chance at all for me?
A peer-to-peer business loan from innovative lender Zool Capital may be a consideration if you’re looking for business finance and we can show you how it works.
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i am recently retired man. i am on aged pension. i need business loan to purchase established business. i want to put some $25000 –$ 35000/ in to it from super annuation funds. i am regularly getting aged pension from centrelink.please guide me the lenders who are liberal in granting business loan to me.
Hi Vinod!
Thanks for reaching out to us.
To apply for a business loan, generally, you will need a summary of your business’ financials, a business plan, financial forecasts (including cash flow forecasts), and your personal information. However, many new lenders simply request to log into your business’ accounting software to get this information for themselves.
You may refer to our list of Centrelink business loans to know which lender may consider you for a loan. Please click the name of the lender or the “More info” link to be redirected to our review page and learn more about the lender’s loan offer, rates, and requirements as well as the pros and cons of using their loan service. When you are ready, you may then click on the “Go to site” button and you will be redirected to the lender’s website where you can proceed with the application or get in touch with their representatives for further inquiries you may have.
Before applying, please ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria and read through the details of the needed requirements as well as the relevant Product Disclosure Statements/Terms and Conditions when comparing your options before making a decision on whether it is right for you. You can also contact the provider if you have specific questions.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Nikki
my question is l am looking for information for a business online banking account, what will be the monthly fees be to have this online account? l have obtained information from NAB and CWB that the account will be zero a month for an online account when you do not use the branch, all banking is done online. to have an OD attached to this online banking business account the fees are below for an unsecured amount.
for OD facility NAB is 14.5% with 1.75% annual fees
for OF facility with CWB 14.75% with 1.75% annual fees
what is will the account fees be with ANZ and Westpac
l cannot see where l find these on your site.
also how long back did a zero fee for online banking start with an online banking account, what year?
Hi Claire,
Thank you for your questions.
1. l am looking for information for a business online banking account, what will be the monthly fees be to have this online account?
Depending on the type of account, some banks have nil monthly fees, others may charge as much as $20. You may refer to our list of business bank accounts to compare your options. Most banking accounts these days can be done easily online.
2. What is will the account fees be with ANZ and Westpac?
You can find more information about ANZ business accounts and its fees from our comparison table. For Westpac, Depending on the account, they charge $10 monthly account fee for their Westpac Business One Account – Low Plan and $20 for Westpac Business One Account – High Plan
3. How long back did a zero fee for online banking start with an online banking account, what year?
I’m afraid we don’t have information in that regard. But most banks offer cheaper if not zero fees on some of their online bank accounts to their customers helping them save money on monthly charges.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
May
small business unsecured loan of 300,000. to buy an existing profitable business , with low fixed interest , no early payout fee ,over 5years approx. Have financial statements of business and $800,000. assets of my own , so could be secured loan.
Hi Tom,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Buying a business is a great undertaking and requires a lot of work. If you haven’t already, you might find our guide in buying a business useful. On the page is a comparison table you can use to find the right lender for you. Once done comparing, you may tick the “Go to Site” or to request a call click the available “Enquire now” button. Before applying for a loan, it would be good to check their eligibility requirements as well as their terms and conditions.
Best regards,
Rench
Hello,
Just wondering if there are any finance options available for me. Right now all I have is my business plan and projections from my account. That’s it, no assets, no defaults on my credit score however I do have 3 inquiries(Business related). I’m looking for funding for my equipment, without the equipment we can’t start. Is there any chance at all for me?
Regards,
Mike.
Hi Mike,
Thanks for contacting finder.
You may visit these links https://www.finder.com.au/business-loans and https://www.finder.com.au/business-loans/equipment-finance for you to get a better look on the business loan, equipment funding and funding options available to you, and how you can determine the best type of financing for your business.
Cheers,
Joanne
Is there a possibility of being funded without collateral and a guarantor? Low doc, etc..?
Hi Trevor,
Thank you for your inquiry.
You may want to consider the following low doc loans.
– Low Doc Personal Loans
– Low Doc Home Loans
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold