Published on: 27 April 2018
Last Updated on: 08 October 2020
It’s easy to think only the big things matter when you’re looking at your finances. Your choice of mortgage and how much student debt you carry tie up your money in major ways, after all. Their effects can be so significant that many people assume they can’t make any positive changes to their finances until they can renegotiate their mortgage or pay off their debt. But these people are forgetting the lesson of the butterfly effect. Though the flapping of a butterfly’s wings may seem insignificant, the air it displaces can set off a chain reaction that causes a hurricane half-way around the world.
If you’re ready to start improving your finances, don’t let the size fool you. You don’t have to wait until you can sort out the big things in your ledger. Even small financial choices can have a huge impact on your life. Take a look at this list of simple and small changes you can make to help bring order to your financial house.
Shop for groceries like a pro :
Your weekly trip down the aisles can lead to considerable savings if you’re organized. Maximize your savings at the supermarket by including these techniques every time you shop:
Make a list: Research from the University of Pennsylvania shows shoppers who use lists can save 23 percent on their grocery bills. How? Those that stick to a list are less likely to make impulse purchases that bloat their bills.
Shop generic:Recognizable brands often cost more money for no other reason than the label. Compare prices of generic items and make the switch.
Use coupons: Coupons strike serious cash off certain items, especially when you use them on top of existing sales. Certain retailers allow you to stack them, so you can redeem more than one coupon on a single item and double, triple, or quadruple your savings.
Price match: When half of your list is on sale at one grocery store, and the other half is on sale at another, you can cash in on both sets of promotions by shopping with a retailer that price matches competitor’s flyers. Though it will take some time at the till this strategy will save you the cost of driving around town to cash in on deals.
Bank differently :
How you deposit, withdraw, save, and invest can affect what’s sitting in your accounts. Slash unnecessary charges and drama from your life by adopting these new banking habits:
Open a no-fee checking account: Most banks charge you monthly fees if you can’t keep a minimum balance. You can skip these charges by transferring your funds to a bank that doesn’t place these restrictions on your accounts.
Stop using ATMs: Depending on where you live, you can spend $5 for the privilege of using an ATM. Let this post help you cut these charges out of your life by withdrawing from your bank directly.
Search out online solutions: Traditional banks often have complex barriers that delay or prevent you from getting a loan you need to pay a bill, causing you to miss deadlines and pay more in interest. Direct cash advance lenders like MoneyKeyaren’t bound by the same red tape in most US states, so getting a payday loan from MoneyKey.com is simple by comparison. They’ve eliminated many of the complexities bogging down conventional assistance, so you can get a necessary cash advance quickly when time is of the essence.
Shop with cash when you can: While mobile payments are more convenient, shopping with digital forms of cash can cause you to spend more. Try shopping with cash as much as possible, leaving credit cards and other e-payments for unavoidable purchases.
Though few of these tips are impressive on their own, their true significance lies in their cumulative effects. Make enough little changes for long enough, and your financial habits can result in considerable savings.
Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.
Planning to investigate some small business loans? What are the best options out there?
Most importantly, how can these loan options help you?
Contrary to popular belief, it is more complex than filling out a form and getting your loan approved. That too from the very first source!
There is eligibility, which you must fulfill from your end, and criteria that the small business loan providers must ensure.
These are subjective to individuals and the business they are trying to build.
For example, which provider should you go for when you need a quick loan of a larger or smaller amount?
So, without any further ado, let’s get into the blog post
What Are Small Business Loans?
What are exactly small business loans? The criteria? Is it different than other forms of business loans?
Small business loans are classified under money lending for commercial purposes Like any other business loan.
There are several reasons why you would consider lending. Do not worry if it is for operational expenses and you fall short!
Not everyone accesses such loans just for their initial business investment or to extend their business to new grounds. In fact, it is common for people to underestimate their expenditure margin when they are starting their business.
In fact, in 2020, 56% of all small business loans were to manage operational costs. While only 31% of loans were for expansion opportunities.1
The Best Small Business Loans
Here are the best small business loans to investigate:
1. SBA 7(a) Loan
LoanCredit ScoreMinimum YearsMinimum Revenue (Yearly)Maximum Loan AmountTime of Acceptance SBA 7(a) Loan680+Two years$100,000+$5 million5-10 business days
This government-backed loan program offers competitive rates and long terms for various needs.
Pros:
Low interest rates
Long repayment terms
Cons:
Lengthy application process
Strict qualification criteria
2. Kabbage Business Line Of Credit
LoanCredit ScoreMinimum YearsMinimum Revenue (Yearly)Maximum Loan AmountTime of AcceptanceKabbage Business Line of Credit640+1 year$50,000+$250,000 Same day
This is a revolving line of credit with a quick application process for managing cash flow.
Pros:
Fast funding
Flexible access to funds
Cons:
High APR
Limited revolving credit line (although that is how they advertise).
3. OnDeck Term Loan
LoanCredit ScoreMinimum YearsMinimum Revenue (Yearly)Maximum Loan AmountTime of AcceptanceOnDeck Term Loan600+1 year$100,000+$250,000 24 hours
This loan offers short-term loans with quick approval, which is ideal for fast access to capital.
Pros
Fast Funding
Discounts for repeat customers
Cons
High interest rates
Frequent repayments
4. BlueVine Business Line Of Credit
LoanCredit ScoreMinimum YearsMinimum Revenue (Yearly)Maximum Loan AmountTime of AcceptanceBlueVine Business Line of Credit600+Six months$100,000+$250,000 24-72 hours
Flexible line of credit with fast approval, useful for managing cash flow.
Pros
Quick funding
No early repayment fees.
Cons
Higher rates for lower credit scores.
Limited to revolving credit.
5. Fundbox Line Of Credit
LoanCredit ScoreMinimum YearsMinimum Revenue (Yearly)Maximum Loan AmountTime of AcceptanceFundbox Line of Credit600+Six months$50,000+$150,000 As fast as the next business day
It provides a simple, quick line of credit ideal for immediate cash flow needs.
Pros
Easy qualification
Quick access to funds
Cons
Lower Loan Amounts
Shorter Repayment terms
6. Lendio Loan Marketplace
LoanCredit ScoreMinimum YearsMinimum Revenue (Yearly)Maximum Loan AmountTime of AcceptanceLendio Loan Marketplace550+Six months$50,000+$5 million On the loan amount
This type of loan is a great help to small business owners. Rather than just one loan, this is a marketplace that connects businesses with multiple lenders for various loan types.
Pros
Wide range of loan options.
Easy comparison of the offer.
Cons
Can receive multiple calls from lenders, which can be irritating.
Not all lenders have favorable terms.
7. American Express Business Loan
LoanCredit ScoreMinimum YearsMinimum Revenue (Yearly)Maximum Loan AmountTime of AcceptanceAmerican Express Business Loan660+1 yearNot specified$50,000 3-5 days
This fixed-rate loan is available only to pre-approved American Express Business Card members.
Pros
Fixed rates
No origination fee
Cons
Only available to pre-approved members.
Relatively small maximum loan amount.
Therefore, if you plan to get a small business loan in the foreseeable future, getting an American Express Business Card is better.
8. Accion Opportunity Fund
LoanCredit ScoreMinimum YearsMinimum Revenue (Yearly)Maximum Loan AmountTime of AcceptanceAccion Opportunity Fund550+1 yearNot specified$250,000 1-3 weeks
Offers loans to underserved small business owners, including minorities and women.
Pros
Focus on underserved businesses.
Personalized support
Cons
Longer approval process.
It may have a higher interest rate.
9. Credibly Small Business Loan
LoanCredit ScoreMinimum YearsMinimum Revenue (Yearly)Maximum Loan AmountTime of AcceptanceCredibly Small Business Loan500+Six months$15,000/month$400,000 24-48 hours (about two days)
Provides working capital loans and merchant cash advances with flexible terms.
Pros
Fast funding
Flexible repayment options
Cons
Higher cost of financing.
Frequent repayments
Small Business Loans With Separate Criterions
Now, we will be delving into the different criteria and which small business loan provider would be best!
1. Startup Needing Initial Capital
"I just started my business and need funds to get it. What are my options?"
Best Loan: Fundera by NerdWallet
Offers access to multiple loan options, including startup loans, even with lower credit scores and minimal business history.
2. Expanding An Established Business
"I’ve been in business for two years and want to expand. What loan should I consider?"
Best Loan: SBA 7(a) Loan
Ideal for established businesses needing significant funding for expansion, with favorable terms and interest rates.
3. Need For Quick Cash Flow Solutions
"I need quick access to cash to manage cash flow. What’s the fastest option?"
Best Loan: Kabbage Business Line of Credit
Offers quick application and approval processes, with funds available on the same day for urgent cash flow needs.
4. Managing Seasonal Inventory And Expenses
"My business is seasonal, and I need funds to purchase inventory before the busy season. What loan fits this need?"
Best Loan: OnDeck Term Loan
It provides short-term loans with quick funding, ideal for managing seasonal inventory purchases and expenses.
5. New Business Owner With Limited Credit
"I have a low credit score and a new business. Are there any loan options available for me?"
Best Loan: Credibly Small Business Loan
Accepts lower credit scores and offers working capital loans, making it accessible to newer businesses with limited credit.
6. Needing A Flexible Line Of Credit
"I want a flexible financing option. This is to cover unexpected expenses as they arise. What should I look for?"
Best Loan: BlueVine Business Line of Credit
It offers a flexible line of credit with fast approval. Plus, it is suitable for covering unexpected expenses.
7. Seeking Low Interest Rates And Long Terms
"I’m looking for a loan with low interest rates and long repayment terms. What’s the best choice?"
Best Loan: SBA 7(a) Loan
It is known for its low interest rates and long repayment terms. Therefore, it is ideal for businesses seeking cost-effective funding.
8. Socially Responsible Business Owner
"I want to support a loan provider that helps underserved communities. What are my options?"
Best Loan: Accion Opportunity Fund
Focuses on providing loans to underserved small business owners. In fact, it also includes minorities and women, with personalized support.
9. Looking For A Fast And Easy Application Process
"I need a loan. However, I don't want to go through a long application process. Which loan is easy to apply for?"
Best Loan: Fundbox Line of Credit
Offers a simple, quick application process with funds available before the next business day.
10. Needing A Small, Short-Term Loan
"I need a small amount of money quickly for a short-term need. What’s the best option?"
Best Loan: American Express Business Loan
It provides small, fixed-rate loans with a quick approval process, which is ideal for short-term financial needs.
Related: How To Use An SBA Loan For Business Purchase
Eligibility For Small Business Loans
You might find the best loan provider. However, when it comes to eligibility, rejection can be common.
Regarding personal loans, good mortgage lending (a property that you place as collateral when taking the loan) makes loan acceptance easier.
However, when it comes to business loans, the rules are a little different. The loan lender (bank or private) must closely investigate your business expenditure, cash flow, and profit margin.
If you do not have a steady personal and business credit score (unless you are building your business from scratch, in which case the rules will be different), getting your small business loan approved can be challenging.
Do not worry; this is not to scare you. However, ensure you take the time to investigate your and improve financial health.
Here are some of the absolute eligibilities when it comes to small business loans.
1. Your Business Needs To Be Nonprofit
Unfortunately, you cannot have a nonprofit organization and demand a small business loan. Your business must be making some profit through a steady income.
2. A Lucrative Business Idea, Aka The Cash-Flow
Since business loans do not depend on collateral submission, lenders are mostly concerned about the business idea.
Most importantly, is there a demand for such business in the market?
Will there be enough opportunities to build a steady cash flow?
Is there any stock market share for businesses with the same ideation?
The loan they offer you will depend on the potential profit you can make from that base. Plus, it must be backed by solid data.
3. Your Credit Score
Although we have already mentioned the credit score for each loan provider, you need to be serious about your creditworthiness.
Any loan provider will scrutinize your personal and business credit score. Any suspicious activity (including something as simple as an unpaid credit card bill) can put you under the radar. Eventually, it does not make you a good candidate for a loan.
In other cases, your business credit score also plays a crucial role.
What is your total business income?
Is it holistic with your business expenditure?
What is your business credit card transaction history? Are you able to balance your bills alongside your monthly operational costs?
...and many more.
You must submit all your financial documents, especially if you are planning to expand through different business locations and real estate. How your business funds are handled becomes crucial in such a case.
Secured & Unsecured Loan
Starting a business? Want a small business loan? Then, you should understand the importance of collateral in such a business.
Most importantly, do you even need to submit collateral to get your loan sanctioned?
Secure business loans will charge you some collateral (cash money, real estate property, gold bonds, etc.).
Meanwhile, unsecured loans do not charge any collateral.
Which is better as Small Business Loans
As someone just starting a business, I know the advantages/disadvantages of both kinds of loans will depend on your criteria and loan amount.
So, let’s discuss the overall pros and cons of both!
Secured Loans
Let’s begin with the kind of loans that require collateral.
Pros ConsLower Interest RatesLonger Approval RatesHigher Loan Amounts (because of the collateral)Risk of Losing AssetLonger Repayment Period (you can elongate your loan repayment term for two decades)Not everything can be collateral. It, after, depends on the bank.
Unsecured Loans
Now, let’s talk about loans without collateral.
ProsConsYou Need No CollateralAutomatically, the maximum loan amount is less.Quick Loan ApprovalHigher Interest RatesFlexible for all types of loansThe repayment period is a short
When Should You Get What?
For the ease of your own understanding, here is when you should get what!
Secured Loans Might Be Better If
You need a larger loan amount.
Can provide valuable collateral.
You want lower interest rates and longer repayment terms.
If your business has significant assets that can be used as collateral.
Unsecured Loans Might Be Better If
You do not have assets to offer as collateral.
Need funds quickly.
You prefer not to risk losing business or personal assets.
The business needs a smaller loan amount.
You can check the listicle above for a good idea of which secure/unsecured small business loans would be better for you.
Types Of Small Business Loans
These are the types of small business loans which you should investigate:
Term Loans: You borrow a set amount and pay it back over time with fixed payments.
SBA Loans: The government backs these loans, giving you good terms for your business.
Business Lines of Credit: You get access to a credit line like a credit card.
Invoice Financing: You can get cash based on your unpaid invoices.
Equipment Loans: This loan helps you buy business equipment.
Merchant Cash Advances: You get an advance on your future credit card sales.
Microloans: These small loans are often given by nonprofits to help you start.
Commercial Real Estate Loans: Use these loans to buy or fix up your business property.
Personal Loans for Business: You can use your personal credit for business needs.
Franchise Loans: These loans help you start or grow a franchise business.
The Final Note!
The choice between a secured and an unsecured small business loan ultimately depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
a secured loan might be more suitable If you have valuable assets and prefer lower interest rates.
On the other hand, if you need quick access to funds and prefer not to put up collateral, an unsecured loan could be the better option.
Always consider the terms and conditions carefully and consult a financial advisor to make the best decision for your business.
Things to remember before you get a small business loan:
Have a solid, chalked-out plan for how you will repay it. You wouldn’t want to lose your collateral.
Do not take hasty loans because you have fulfilled a business milestone. Remember, a loan is not a temporary fix; it is a debt for years to come. Therefore, be careful before sanctioning a loan.
Finally, be candid about your financial decision. Keeping it discreet to get a quicker loan approval will only cause you trouble later.
What do you think? Should getting a small business loan come after so many considerations, or should it be a little easier?
Do let us know in the comment section below!
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Core Banking Solutions: A Game Changer?
Alternative Business Financing – What Is It And How Do You Do It?
Ways To Apply For A Personal Loan & The Reasons To Opt For This Loan.
Spending is an obvious thing in life. Inasmuch as someone is alive, he or she cannot just avoid spending money. To keep living, we need money. We cannot access some basic necessities such as food without money. Spending money is a basic fact in life. But the manner in which you spend can determine the quality of life you live now and in the future. Proper spending behaviors will protect you from incurring too many costs on an item. In fact, good financial habits will help you not overspend and use your finances in an appropriate manner instead.
It is very important to take time and examine your spending habits. Make the necessary changes and see yourself succeeding financially. The key to financial health is to always stop and think. Before you make a purchase, it is important to ask yourself if the purchase is really necessary. But the most significant thing you can do is to budget. Through budgeting, you can save a lot of money and help you have extra cash to spend. Put differently, your budgeting style along with healthy financial decisions will determine how successful you will be. You need to decide how much money you will regularly spend on some items and stick to that decision. In this blog, we are going to address two things; the wise financial choices that will help you stick to your budget and the best way to outrank bad spending habits with good ones.
A good housekeeper will always know when the home is organized and when it is not. This should always be followed by a remedial course of action. The same thing happens with your budget. You know when it is not effective and then you take steps to redesign it. When it comes to budgeting, you control everything.
One way of appreciating your hard work and efforts is to remain true to your budget and even seek help where necessary. The following tips will help you follow your budget always:
Make it realistic and practical.
Let us take an example of what you set aside for entertainment monthly. If your budget is $80 every month but you spend a total of $240, something is wrong somewhere. The best thing to do is to get to the middle. Increase the allocation to probably $160 and lower your spending down to that level. The more real your budget is, the more you are likely to go by it. So make your budget real and be true to it.
Plan how you spend on meals:
Do you go for grocery unplanned, not knowing how much you are going to spend at the store? That is like taking a financial poison and you might get overwhelmed with time. The point is, you should plan for your meals, breakfast, dinner, and lunch. You do not have to pick whatever appears to be good in the stores. Just visit the stores with a list of the things you are going to pick along with how much you are going to spend on them. Pick all you need and leave the store right away.
Stop using credit cards:
Recent studies show that about 83% of Americans prefer credit card payments to cash. This is because credit card postpones the pain that comes with payments until later in the month. This is a temptation that can make you spend too much money that what is worth for an item. Avoid this problem by sticking to your debit card or cash. Do not allow the challenge that comes with delayed payment to force you into incurring more costs on items than their worth. People even seek loan online as it’s convenient moreover for you to be sure that your lender is legit, they need to explain the loan terms clearly like A1 Credit a trusted financial institution.
Learn to wait:
If you out for window shopping with no desire to make a purchase, then you come across a very nice t-shirt but nothing is left on the money left set aside for clothing, just walk away. Breathe in and convince yourself that you will actually buy it but only next month. By that time, you have accumulated enough cash to make that purchase.
Consider social events:
You perhaps like celebrating events with friends. This could be on events such as weddings and anniversaries. But the problem is that you fail to include the associated costs in your budget. Draft a social calendar and always consult it.
Note your necessities:
Your basic necessities may include food, housing, and medication. If you commute to work, transport cost may also be included in your basic wants. Do not spend too much on luxuries. But note that a basic a luxury to you may be a basic want to someone else. Just define your basic necessities and prioritize them.
Restrict to your budget:
Prioritize your needs and how you spend on them. Set goals on your money. Try to restrict yourself to the provisions of your budget. Do not live beyond your means. Accept to live within your abilities.
It can be quite challenging to stick to your budget. However, it is possible if you fully determined to do that. The seven tips discussed will help you in this regard.
What about your financial habits? Well, let us briefly see how you can break them. It can equally be challenging but you can be successful if you use the following tips.
Cut spending on clothing. You don’t have to visit a store on a weekly basis. If it is necessary that you spend, but let it be at a thrift store and you will save money
Eat at home. Incontrovertibly, eating out is expensive. Learn to cook your meals at home. Besides, if you have a family, it is only good to share meals as a family.
Reduce entertainment costs. Consider free entertainment alternatives around.
Avoid credit cards. They postpone the pain that comes with making payments at a cost. Learn to use cash or your debit card instead.
Repay debts in time to avoid extra charges.
At whatever cost, do not use funds from your retirement account.
Conclusion:
Making a budget and sticking to it are two different things. But if you follow the tips discussed in the first section of this blog, you will be successful. Nevertheless, sticking to your budget can be senseless if you have the same bad spending habits. We have discussed six tips that will help you outrank bad spending behaviors. We wish you the best as you shape your financial life.
Read Also:
Debt Consolidation Plans For Your Debt Relief
Ways That You Are Wasting Money On Marketing
How To Become Financially Stable Before Age 30
How Financial Trading Can Give You The Life You Want
How Artificial Intelligence Is Helping Banking And Financial Institutions?
The Importance Of Saving: The Bedrock Of A Bright Financial Future
Are you good at financial figures and strategies? Are you on the lookout for jobs that has the right amount of challenges to be exciting? Do you want to travel across the world and have a global career? If yes, pursuing an MBA in global finance can be the right choice for you.
If you are curious about an MBA program specializing in global finance, this blog can be an informative read. Apart from learning about what the course involves, you can also know the benefits of pursuing this course and its career prospects in the future.
What does a global finance MBA entail?
The global finance MBA involves learning about managing the finances of multi-national corporations following local and international regulations, business laws, and other guidelines.
Though the curriculums may differ for different universities offering this MBA specialization, most of them consist of subjects like managerial marketing, international financial regulations, accounting principles, international strategic management, and international relations.
Why should you pursue an MBA in global finance?
A finance-focused MBA program can be a versatile option that can open up a plethora of career options in the finance industry. A global finance MBA adds a global perspective to the mix and offers you lucrative opportunities in foreign countries as well. Here are some benefits of pursuing an MBA in global finance.
Specially customized curriculum:
The course structure of a global finance MBA is specially customized to focus on the financial aspects of global business settings. This can help you in developing skills that are required for a deep understanding of international business
Wide networking opportunities:
Since this course has a global perspective, you might find your classmates from diverse backgrounds. Also, You can get a chance to build an extensive network across the world and become a truly global management professional.
Flexibility to switch jobs in the future:
Since global finance operations have wide applications across all the major industries, this course provides a broad perspective on wide range subjects. It can also give the flexibility of switching career domains in the future if you wish.
Bright future scope:
This course teaches you to analyze financial situations from a global perspective. With this course, you can widen your career prospects and build an impressive skill set.
What is the future scope of an MBA in global finance?
An MBA with global finance can help you explore key management concepts and be up-to-date with the latest financial trends across the world. According to payscale.com, international finance graduates earn an average annual salary of $ 100,990. With this qualification, you can be eligible for financial management positions across various industries. Here are some exciting career options that can interest you.
Global management consultants
International finance managers
International trade policy advisors
Business development managers
Global management consultants
Global relations manager
Investment banking consultants
As a global finance MBA graduate, you can comprehend the complexities of the dynamic nature of the international business environment and apply your knowledge to handle different financial issues in your organization. Enroll in a global finance course today to become a part of the international business circle.
Read Also:
Doing business in the UAE: pros and cons
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