Published on: 10 November 2018
Last Updated on: 13 October 2020
Successful banks, credit unions, and financial institutions have long relied on strong internal communications to effectively manage day-to-day operations, plan for the future, and respond to problems as they arise.
A team that is empowered to share knowledge, experience, and data will be more resilient in the face of challenges and more capable of exercising initiative, and implementing effective communication strategies and protocols is especially important in the financial industry, where the risks are as high as the potential rewards.
This is why many financial institutions rely on intranet services to ensure a secure, seamless operation that ensures a constant flow of information between analysts, investors, client relations, and service workers. Intranet services essentially function as internal web pages that allow organizations and businesses to network and communicate more effectively, and a good intranet site gives every employee access to superior communication and database tools.
Most intranet sites are designed to meet three basic needs: providing employees access to documents, workflow charts, and protocols, helping employees complete tasks and connecting employees with each other. By providing usable tools and easy navigation routes, the intranet makes workers more efficient and strengthens morale by improving employee engagement.
Despite the many benefits of intranet sites, one of their biggest downsides has traditionally been the large investment of time and resources needed to get an intranet site up and running. Large intranet providers like SharePoint typically build sites from the ground up, which not only requires significant startup costs but also makes it necessary to have a dedicated IT team to maintain it once it is in place.
Fortunately, there are alternatives that are easier to develop and less demanding to run. Providers like Intranet Connections have made a name for themselves by designing intranet sites that are tailored to the particular needs of the banking and finance industry (as well as business and healthcare) but which are less costly to install and more intuitive to operate.
The solutions provided by Intranet Connections are tailored to the needs of particular industries, but they are also easy to operate even for those who are not IT specialists, which means they do not require constant IT support to run. This is particularly valuable for financial institutions because it means that managers and others in key leadership positions can handle operational issues as they arise instead of needing to refer them to specialists.
The value such services can provide to established and emerging banks and financial services providers should not be overstated: a recent article in American Banker noted that digital banking technologies have unleashed a wave of innovation and disruption that poses serious threats to the old way of doing things. With smaller financial companies making a compelling pitch to younger demographics and nascent AI technologies creating uncertainty for the future, financial institutions of all sizes need to make their operations leaner and more efficient.
Increasingly, financial organizations that do not adopt the latest intranet solutions are in danger of falling behind the innovation curve. By providing streamlined, flexible solutions to internal communications, intranet solutions are making banks more competitive, more effective, and better prepared for the challenges of doing business in the 21st century.
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!
Read Also:
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.
When it comes to financial record keeping, there's perhaps no other document more important for you to save than your pay stub. You might think your employer would provide you with a year-end summary of your earnings, but that's not always the case.
Avoid tax and employment problems down the road by holding onto your pay stubs and knowing how to read them. This quick guide will help you to understand the importance of your pay stub.
What is a Pay Stub?
A pay stub is a payment statement that you receive from your employer that details how much money you've earned in a given pay period, as well as any deductions that have been taken out of your paycheck.
This can include things like taxes, health insurance, and retirement savings contributions. Although the federal government does not require employers to provide their workers with a pay stub, most states have their own laws in place that mandate this.
In some cases, your employer may opt to provide you with an electronic pay stub, rather than a physical one. If this is the case, be sure to print out a copy and save it for your records.
Why Are Pay Stubs Important for Financial Record Keeping?
You will need your gross and net payment details at tax time to accurately report how much money you earned over the course of the year. Your pay stub information helps you keep track of any staff benefits that have been added to or deducted from your paycheck.
This is important for two reasons: first, it can help you to budget accordingly; and second, if there are any discrepancies, you'll have documentation to back up your claim. Finally, pay stubs can also serve as proof of employment in the event that you need to apply for a loan or other type of financial assistance.
How Do I Read a Pay Stub?
Pay stubs can vary somewhat from employer to employer and the payroll system they use. Generally, most pay stubs will contain the following information:
Your name and contact information
Your employee ID number
The check number
The date of the pay period
The amount of money earned during the pay period
A breakdown of any deductions that have been taken out
If you have any questions about your pay stub, be sure to ask your employer for clarification. After all, it's important that you understand exactly how much money you're taking home each week or month.
How Long Should You Keep Your Pay Stubs
In general, it's a good idea to hold onto your pay stubs for at least one year. This will give you plenty of time to file your taxes and resolve any discrepancies that might arise.
If you're self-employed, you'll need to create a pay stub each month and keep them on hand for even longer than a year. That's because you'll need them to prove your income in the event that you ever apply for a loan or other type of financial assistance.
How To Create A Pay Stub
If your employer doesn't provide you with a pay stub, or if you're self-employed, but if you do not know how to make paystubs then you can create your own using an online pay stub generator.
This is a quick and easy way to create a pay stub, but it's important to work with reputable companies that provide you with a document that will be considered legitimate by the US government.
Make light work of your financial record-keeping by using our pay stub generator which is easy to use and generates safe documents. Start by selecting the right pay stub template.
Read Also:
Bridging Loans Explained
Top Ten Solutions Offered At Ocbc Securities
Seven Benefits Of Hiring A Professional Bookkeeper
B Corps Vs Public Benefit Corporations: Understanding Ethical Investing
Only a few years ago, people were skeptical about cryptocurrencies. Nowadays, blockchain technology is a leading investment direction and profit source. Hardly someone can be found on the planet who hasn’t heard about Bitcoin or Ethereum.
However, there is still a stereotype about the digital currency market. Few people are involved in it since most people think it’s a complicated and risky industry. Yes, the likelihood of losing all your money is high if you are completely ignorant about digital currencies.
To avoid such an unpleasant situation and, on the contrary, start investing in cryptocurrencies and making money, you should educate yourself about the market. So start your journey by picking a good crypto exchange. This guide will teach you how to identify a reliable digital currency exchange and make safe transactions.
What is Cryptocurrency Exchange?
Cryptocurrency exchanges are digital platforms where people can sell the currency they have or purchase another one. For example, on such platforms, you can convert BNB to MATIC. Moreover, besides crypto, your exchange destination can also be fiat currency, e.g., by giving BNB, you can receive US dollars. After performing currency exchange on the platform, you can either keep the money in your cryptocurrency wallet or transfer funds to your bank account.
How to Choose a Reliable Crypto Exchange?
Unfortunately, the availability of hundreds of crypto exchanges makes it difficult to choose a good one. Investors worry about the security of their funds and don’t want to meet scammers. Here are a few criteria that will help you identify a reliable instant crypto exchange.
1. Pay Attention to Security Procedures
One of the reasons investors become victims of scammers is that they don’t spend enough time verifying the platforms’ authenticity. First of all, you should check each platform’s Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy sections to ensure that a legitimate company manages the website. But don’t entirely trust this information. Always make sure to check the exchange’s reputation on the internet. Finally, read customer reviews and feedback to learn what users think about the platform.
2. Availability of Multiple Payment Methods Matter
Crypto exchanges accept payments via credit cards, PayPal, and digital wallets. Most platforms also allow purchasing crypto by paying via other digital currencies. The exchange must accept payments via credit card or PayPal for beginner traders to acquire their first coins.
3. Large Variety of Supported Currencies
Almost all exchange platforms convert famous currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. However, few people know that there are thousands of digital currencies. Unfortunately, exchanges don’t support all of them. Hence, investors should choose a relatively popular cryptocurrency, on the one hand, and a platform that supports transactions to and from this currency.
4. Transparent Transaction Fees
Before choosing a crypto exchange platform, make sure that it has a transparent transaction fee policy. Unfortunately, some exchanges have hidden fees that investors notice after making several transactions.
Final Thoughts
Cryptocurrencies are good sources of income if you succeed in choosing a reliable exchange platform. Several criteria can help you with this task. First, make sure that the platform’s operation is legitimate. It should also support several currencies, payment methods and have a transparent transaction policy.
Read Also:
The Profit Revolution: The Best Bitcoin Trading And Investing Platform
How to Buy Bitcoin From Norway
How To Become A Successful Cryptocurrency Trader In 5 Easy Steps
