Working as a freelancer can be a rewarding experience, but you can’t ignore the importance of health insurance. Some people consider it a drawback because they have to manage their health insurance plan. There is no need to worry because you can get some good plans. Fortunately, some online platforms like carefulcents.com help you to pick a suitable self-employed health plan. Here are some good options that may work for you:
Federal/State Marketplace:
The marketplace for health insurance provides you with excellent coverage option. If you are working as a freelancer, you can enroll through an appropriate plan. A freelancer, consultant, independent workers, and other contractors can get several options. Fortunately, several categories are available with low premiums. Your savings may depend on the projected net income.
Plans with Higher Deductible and Lower Premiums:
These types of plans can be an excellent option for people who need something affordable. While paying a lower premium, you can get the advantage of higher deductibles. It can be beneficial to work with this type of plan in your good health. If you are not prone to traumas or unexpected accidents, these plans are great for you.
Medicaid:
Millions of Americans can get the advantage of free coverage and low cost through Medicaid. These options are suitable for families with low income, seniors and people with disabilities. You can get suitable Medicaid as per your income. Make sure to consider the regulations of your state to pick appropriate insurance. This program is free from open enrollment periods so that you can apply without any restriction.
Plan for Family Coverage:
A few states allow you to get the advantage of a domestic partnership without a legal marriage. If you are sharing a room or house with your partner, you can get the benefit of family coverage. You will be eligible for this plan until you or your partner is not married to anyone else.
Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA):
COBRA guarantees you stipend to remain under the health insurance plan of your employer provisionally. Some plans are associated with a decrease in your employment. As per the U.S. Labor Department, you have to follow some eligibility requirements. COBRA couldn’t be a wise option if a person were not formally employed.
Private Insurance:
Some people need special healthcare coverage for chronic illness and other problems. If you need a particular insurance plan, make sure to check the details of a policy to find a suitable cover. A private insurance company can help you in the selection of a strong cover. Make sure to figure out important details before finalizing health coverage.
Interest Groups:
The national association for self-employed may provide excellent support to freelancers. You can access life insurance policies and health saving accounts after getting your membership. The fee for annual membership may vary between $25 and $120 for students and general members. Freelancers can save money at famous stores, such as QuickBooks and Office Depot. Moreover, the health association for underwriters represents more than 100,000 insurance agents. They can help you in the selection of an affordable healthcare plan.
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.
Sometimes, things can go south when you need to take up a commercial lease, but you discover that your credit score is bad. There is an unfortunate stereotype about people with a bad credit score as they are seen to be a typical bad guy, starved off trustworthiness.
Yet, in reality, a bad credit score can occur to just anyone. Bad credit essentially means a financial history of your inability to pay up loans when you were obligated to.
Worry not, for in this guide, we will show you how to secure your dream commercial lease, even in the face of bad credit.
1. Do a wide search of your options:
Honesty is quite needed here, and you have to search for all the options open to you. Your real estate advisor or lawyer can help you do it, but you need to be honest about the reasons why you were unable to meet the previous financial commitments so that they have adequate information to help you.
When you know you have several options, you will be more relaxed to seek out a property owner who can accommodate your bad credit.
2. Get a good guarantor or co-signer:
If, for instance, you’re considering getting an office space for lease Seattle with bad credit, getting a guarantor or co-signer with a high credit score to sign as a surety for you can help you secure the commercial lease.
The property owner would know that he or she would have nothing to lose as your guarantor or co-signer will be held liable to pay if you default.
Admittedly, since your credit is bad, it could be hard to get a guarantor, in which case, look for a family member or friend whom you would be willing to offer a percentage of the business proceeds, making the deal more lucrative and mutually beneficial.
3. Be willing to stake high:
Negotiations for an office space for lease Seattle with bad credit could be quite tricky, but you can still get a fair deal. You would have to increase your stakes to make your offer attractive, despite your low credit score.
You can offer to make a hefty security deposit, add collateral, or even agree to pay a higher interest rate. A business-minded property owner would be more interested in offering you a lease with such these attractive conditions.
4. Consider bartering:
Bartering means exchanging what you have for something that you need. Identify a connection between your line of business and what the property owner can get in place of the payment and have the willingness to exchange, even if you’re a bit on the losing side.
If finding a connection is difficult, you can join a barter club where the credit scores of the members can be used towards your lease.
5. Go for a motivated property owner:
Property owners can sometimes be motivated to advertise that they are willing to bargain or offer leases to people with bad credit. Search out for them and be prepared to commit to their terms, giving assurance that you will keep to the lease agreement.
When you need a commercial lease, and you have a bad credit score, you don’t have to panic. There are some things that you can do to rectify the situation. The bottom line is that whatever arrangement you decide to use, you have to document and sign it to protect yourself in the future.
Read Also:
Debt Consolidation Plans For Your Debt Relief
Using Short-Term Loans To Help Rebuild Your Credit Score
Revolving Debt Vs Installment Debt – Which Impacts Your Credit Score The Most?
Investing in life insurance can be an intimidating thought. It is safe to say that the younger and healthier you are, the lower your insurance costs will be. This is because a healthy person has a lower risk of dying as compared to a person with an unhealthy lifestyle. Hence, if you are thinking about life insurance here are a few tips that could help lower the cost of your insurance.
Stop Smoking
A smoker has to pay a much insurance premium as compared to a non-smoker of the same age. In some cases, this can be as high as triple the premium. So, if you smoke or use any other tobacco-based products, now is the time to quit. You will be considered a non-smoker after you have quit smoking for at least 3 to 5 years.
Lose some Weight
A number of health issues are caused by being overweight. Hence, insurance companies consider obese or heavy people a high risk and hence charge them a higher premium. Maintaining a healthy BMI can help you live a longer, healthier life by reducing your risk of heart diseases, blood pressure problems, etc.
Schedule an Early Physical
A thorough medical examination is one of the prerequisites of most life insurance policies. Try and schedule this exam in the early part of the day or on a day when you are relaxed and well-rested. This is because studies show that testing for blood pressure, cholesterol, etc. have lower results in the morning as compared to in the latter half of the day after you have had a stressful day or eaten a heavy lunch. Fasting for 24 hours before your physical could also help lower your cholesterol count.
Be Honest
If you suffer from a preexisting condition it may be tempting to try and hide this information from your insurance agency. However, doing this could cause you a lot of trouble. In most cases, the insurance company will recognize your health condition during the review of your medical history and medical exam. Since you did not disclose this condition, you will then not have an opportunity to explain the situation.
Drive Carefully
Along with your health records, an insurance agent might also ask for your driving record. While this may seem unconnected, it is not. According to many insurance agencies, a driver who frequently breaks traffic rules is likely to put himself or herself in a dangerous situation and hence is considered high risk. So, if you have more than the occasional ticket to your name, it may be wise to wait a few years before applying for insurance and drive more carefully in the meantime.
Keep an Eye on Insurance rates
Like everything else, insurance policy rates also change from time to time. Thus, even if you have already bought a life insurance policy, it is important to review and compare policies every few years. Affordable Life USA has great rates on life insurance. Along with comparing quotes, you should also update your policy from time to time to reflect the changes in your personal situation.
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.
