Business loans and business credit cards are two of the most common types of financing for small business owners. Typically, business loan Ideal for large company purchases and investments, but business credit card Ideal for daily and recurring expenses.
Here's what you need to know about these financing options and how to choose the right one for your business.
We start with a quick survey to better understand your business's unique needs.
Once we have found your personalized match, our team will be happy to discuss the further process.
Comparison of business loans and business credit cards
Ranges up to $5 million or more. |
Ranges up to $50,000 and up. |
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You receive money in a lump sum and repay it regularly (with interest) over a period of time. |
Revolving Credit Facility. Borrow from your credit card as needed to minimize your monthly payments. Pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. |
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6% to 99%, depending on the type of loan. |
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Eligibility requirements |
To qualify, you may need good credit, strong business finances, and multiple years of operation. |
You'll likely need a good personal credit history. Even new businesses with no income can qualify. |
Depending on the product, it may take more than 30 days. |
You can usually get approved within minutes. |
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Major investments, such as purchasing equipment, expanding operations, or refinancing debt. |
Daily and ongoing expenses such as gas, transportation, inventory purchases, and utilities. |
What is a business loan?
With a business loan, you receive a lump sum of money from a lender and repay it with interest over a set period of time. There are various types of business loans, including bank loans. SBA loanequipment loans, micro loans, etc.
Strong Points
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The maximum loan amount is high. Business loans usually include Raising the maximum loan amount than a corporate credit card. For example, SBA loans are typically available up to $5 million.
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Decrease in interest rates. nevertheless business loan interest rate Depending on the individual product and qualifications, many financing options offer lower interest rates than small business credit cards. Bank and SBA loans offer the most competitive interest rates in the following ranges: 5.89% to 12.23% and 11.5to % 15%Each.
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Repayment period is long. While business credit cards require you to pay off your balance monthly to avoid accruing interest, most business loans allow you to make a lump sum repayment that can be paid back (with interest) over a longer period of time.Some S.B.A. commercial real estate loans We offer repayment terms of up to 25 years.
Cons
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Physical collateral may be required. Some business loans require physical collateral, equipment, inventory, real estate, etc. These assets are used to secure the loan and in case of default, the lender can claim recovery of losses. Although there are certain things, secure business credit cardthe majority of options do not require any specific collateral.
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It can be difficult to qualify. Some business loans, especially bank and SBA loans, have strict eligibility criteria and may require good credit, strong finances, and a multi-year business history to qualify.nevertheless online loan Even if more flexibility is available, access to financing typically requires established revenues and at least six months of operation.
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The funding process may be slow. While certain business loan options can get you funded within 24 hours, many products take longer to process. business bank loanFor example, extensive documentation is often required and financing can take days to weeks or longer.
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What is a corporate credit card?
a business credit cards work It's like a personal credit card. This is a revolving line of credit that allows you to purchase (within specified limits), repay the entire amount or part of the balance, and repeat the cycle. However, unlike personal credit cards, business credit cards are designed specifically for entrepreneurs and offer benefits like free employee cards and rewards on everyday business expenses.
Strong Points
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Flexible functionality. Business credit cards offer more flexibility than many small business loan options. Business credit cards allow you to draw from a set of revolving funds. This means you don't have to reapply multiple times to access your working capital. Additionally, if you pay off your credit card balance in full each month, you won't have to worry about accruing interest or making payments.
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Dedicated rewards. Business credit cards can offer a variety of benefits, including cash back, airline miles, and reward points. Many cards let you earn these types of benefits in categories where small businesses spend the most, such as travel, shipping, utilities, and office supplies.Business credit cards include sign-up bonuses and Introductory annual interest rate 0%. You can carry your balance without accruing interest during the 0% introductory APR period. This type of card can be useful for upfront costs, as long as you pay in full before the introductory period ends.
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It's easy to qualify. Most small business credit cards require a good or excellent personal credit score, but you don't necessarily need a certain amount of time in business or established annual revenue to qualify. Business credit cards are available not only to startups but also to freelancers and self-employed individuals. Unlike small business lenders, credit card providers tend to focus on your personal credit history and income.
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Fast application process. When you apply for a business credit card, you can usually receive a decision within minutes, if not instantly. Applications for business credit cards usually don't require any documentation. Instead, you only need to provide details about yourself and your business.
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It helps you establish your business and build credibility. Especially for new businesses, business credit cards can help you establish your financial history. By using your credit card responsibly, you can: build business credibilityThis will help you qualify for other financing products, such as small business loans, in the future.
Cons
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Possibility of higher variable interest rates. Interest rates on business credit cards often range from approximately 18% to 36% and are subject to change based on the market and prime rates. While online loans may have higher interest rates, many other business loan products have lower APRs. If you don't pay your credit card balance in full each month, interest will start accruing and this debt can quickly become expensive.
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It can negatively impact your personal credit. Not all business credit card issuers report to personal credit bureaus, but most of those that do report only negative information. So if you miss a payment or become delinquent on your business credit card account; Personal credit score may be affected.
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Federal protection is limited. of Credit Card Act of 2009 We set limits on interest rate changes and fees, and established requirements for increased transparency on credit card statements. Although this law protects consumers with personal credit cards, the same protections do not apply to business credit cards.
Business loans and business credit cards: how to choose
When comparing business credit cards and business loans, there are different scenarios in which each option may be better suited to your needs.
A business credit card is right for you if:
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You want to pay for routine or recurring expenses and earn rewards in the process.
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You are a new business and want to establish a financial history and build credit.
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Requires less amount startup funding You can take advantage of a 0% introductory APR period.
A business loan is a good option if:
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You need to make a large purchase or investment for your established business.
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You want to borrow money and pay it back over a long period of time.
It's also important to note that business loans and business credit cards often complement each other. You can also open a business credit card to pay for everyday expenses and then invest in a small business loan when you need to expand or grow your business. As long as you have the cash flow to repay the money you borrow, these products can work together effectively.