5 Tips for Business Owners to Borrow Money With Confidence

2. Be aware of potential loan fee scams

Typically there are no up-front fees for a business loan, and you should avoid lenders that charge you to complete an application. Most financial institutions have online applications and do not charge a business to apply. Also, if you apply with a bank or Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), they should connect you with a relationship manager who can help you with the application if you need additional help. Our article on understanding the costs of a small business loan can help you learn more about fees you can expect.

You may also choose to work with a loan broker. A reputable loan broker will typically work without taking any upfront fees from you—they take their commission from the lending institution. When choosing a loan broker, you'll want to do your due diligence in verifying their reputation – a good first step is verifying their physical business address and meeting with them.

3. Safeguard your personal or business credit score from too many inquiries

Multiple inquiries to your credit report can impact your credit score, but you can find out your business and personal credit score by going directly to the credit bureaus or requesting a copy of your credit report—you can request a free copy of your personal credit report annually.† Accessing your credit score or obtaining a copy of your credit report isn't considered a "hard inquiry" so it will not negatively impact your score.

Lenders will pull their own credit report on you once you apply, but you can use a credit report/score you pull to give you an idea of interest rates from a prospective lender before you apply. The lender will share your potential interest rate after you apply and a loan offer is presented.

Remember: You only need to allow a lender to pull your credit score once you've decided you want to apply for a loan with them.

4. Take your time and don't feel pressured to apply for a loan

Securing a loan creates a relationship with the lending institution, so you want to work with a lender who makes you feel comfortable, starting with the application. Avoid working with a lender who is pushing you to do something you are uncomfortable with, such as applying before a certain date for a "loan special" or an offer that "just can't be passed up." Having a few key lines prepared and rehearsed in advance can help in these situations. You can say, "I'd like to review all of my options and then follow up with you."

Also keep in mind that it's not typical to apply for a loan in just one appointment. So, unless you have done a lot of previous research, you can feel confident taking 2-3 appointments (or more) until you have all your questions answered. To help you strengthen your application, learn more about how a bank reviews a small business loan request.

5. Get a second quote from another lender

Many borrowers are often tempted to go with the first institution that will lend to them, but it's important to get a second opinion. Even if you have a long-standing relationship with your bank, it's a good idea to make sure they've provided you with a competitive offer to retain your business. Getting a quote from at least two different banks can help ensure you are getting the most competitive rates and fees available in the market.

Overall, when it comes to borrowing money for your business, it's worth investing your time to find the right business loan and lender. Keep these tips in mind as you explore your options so you can feel confident borrowing money to support your business needs and goals.