October 21, 2016
What to Consider Before Applying for Working Capital
In addition, your business may require funds for equipment updates, expansion costs, restocking inventory, among other necessary investments. In order to do this, you could apply for small business working capital from a lender. This is a responsible and actionable way to benefit your small business. Although additional financing could help your business grow, you’ll need to consider a few things before applying. You’ll want to make sure that the amount and term are the right fit for your business, that you have little existing debt and that the working capital product you’re receiving suits your business’s industry. Ready to apply for small business working capital? Answer the following questions:
How long has your business been up-and-running?
Are you a small business veteran, or did you recently open your doors? This may affect whether or not your business is eligible for working capital from some lenders. For instance, at Fora Financial, we require that a business be operational for at least three months. If you’re a new business but would like to apply for working capital, it might be prudent to wait a few months before applying. This way, you’ll have a better idea of how you’d use small business working capital, and how much your money is generating each month.
Do you have unpaid debt?
Maybe you’ve taken out a previous loan that you haven’t repaid yet, or you’ve racked up credit card debt. If you’ve previously received working capital, but haven’t been able to pay back your loan or remit your merchant cash advance, you might be in the process of reducing your working capital debt. Whatever the case, existing debt may deter a lender from wanting to work with you.
In addition, taking out a loan may be another financial stress that your business can’t handle. You’ll be paying back a loan in addition to your debt payments, plus trying to keep your business afloat. If you’re serious about receiving small business working capital, try and repay your debt first!
What do you need financing for?
Consider whether your business’s needs are short or long term. If the lender you’re working with offers prepayment discounts, and you’re receiving a loan, this might be useful to you if you’re able to pay back the full amount quickly. For example, maybe you need the working capital to repair broken equipment. Once you’ve paid for the expenses, you might be able to quickly pay off your loan. In comparison, perhaps you need working capital for long-term projects; in this case, it wouldn’t make sense to pursue prepay discounts, and you’d focus on repaying your loan in the term provided to you by the lender.
What product will be right for your industry?
Depending on your business’s industry, you might be better suited for a particular working capital product. If you own a restaurant, you likely receive a large amount of payments in small amounts by credit card. Because of this, a merchant cash advance might be the best product for your business. Own a construction business? Then a small business loan with a set term would be helpful to you when starting a big project. It is important to consider your industry when you apply for working capital.
Have you researched lenders and their requirements?
Make the process easier by researching the lender prior to applying. By doing this, you’ll be aware of the requirements, prepared when submitting your application and will know what to expect from the lender.
Now that you’ve considered these issues, we hope you know whether or not it is the right time for your business to apply for additional working capital from a lender. Still unsure? Call one of our Capital Specialists at (855) 358-6528 to learn more about how Fora Financial provides working capital to small business owners nationwide.