- Bad credit can prevent businesses from accessing resources and capital needed for operations.
- Banks and other traditional lenders may deny loans due to poor credit, making alternative lenders an excellent option.
- Businesses with bad credit pay an average of 0.8-3% more interest than those with excellent credit ratings.
- Strategies to access funds include seeking alternative lenders, using existing resources, and considering government assistance programs.
- Liquidating investments or using an emergency fund can provide capital without taking on more debt.
Bad credit can be a significant obstacle for businesses. It can prevent them from getting favorable loan terms, keep them from being hired by potential customers, and lead to higher insurance premiums. It can also prevent businesses from accessing the resources and capital needed to launch or expand operations.
Businesses that have nad credit face several challenges. Banks may deny loans due to their poor credit history, making purchasing equipment, property, or finance payroll difficult. Business owners with bad credit might even struggle to get a business credit card used to manage everyday expenses like office supplies and travel costs.
The consequences of bad credit — such as fewer financing options, higher interest rates, and insurance premiums — can severely strain a business’ finances. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, companies with poor credit pay an average of 0.8-3% more interest than those with excellent credit ratings. This leads to spending significantly more money over the life of a loan than they would otherwise need to spend if their rating were better.
So where should you get your money when your business has bad credit? Here are some strategies that you can take to access funds needed for your business:
Seek Alternative Lenders
Businesses dealing with bad credit often find accessing money from traditional lenders difficult. Banks and other financial institutions typically have strict requirements, and those with poor credit may not meet their standards. This makes alternative lenders an excellent option for getting the resources they need. Here are a few options:
Online Lenders
These lenders are usually easier to access than traditional banks and offer short-term loans for businesses with poor credit. They often have less stringent requirements, so getting approved is possible even if your credit is not up to par.
Merchant Cash Advance Companies
These companies provide businesses with a lump sum of money upfront, which they can then repay over time through their credit card sales. It makes getting capital easier since the repayment is taken out of daily or weekly revenue, meaning your business can still function while you pay off the loan.
Crowdfunding Platforms
Sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow businesses to raise funds by directly appealing to potential donors, making crowdfunding a helpful tool. This can be a great way to access resources without additional debt or sacrificing equity.
Business Credit Builder Program
Another alternative lender option is a business credit builder program. These programs give businesses access to capital, helping them establish better credit by building their payment history and improving their score.
Use Existing Resources
Using existing resources is an essential strategy for businesses struggling with bad credit. Liquidating investments or using an emergency fund can provide capital that can be used to pay bills and cover expenses until the business’s financial situation improves. This can help them avoid taking on more debt that could further damage their poor credit score.
Liquidating investments may seem drastic, but they can effectively raise funds if the business is a pinch. It’s also important to consider the impact of liquidation on taxes, as it can affect how much money is available for use after all is said and done. It’s always best to seek professional advice when considering this option.
An emergency fund is also a great way to access resources without taking on more debt or sacrificing equity. Setting up this fund before a financial crisis can help businesses stay afloat and avoid extreme measures such as liquidating investments or applying for high-interest loans from alternative lenders with questionable terms and conditions.
A timeshare transfer service is another ideal option if you have it. This process involves transferring timeshare ownership to another individual, usually for a small fee. The new owner then pays off the cost of the timeshare and any related fees, releasing the business from their financial obligations. This can provide relief if cash flow is tight and other options are limited.
Consider Government Assistance
Government assistance programs can give businesses the support they need to get back on their feet. The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers loan guarantees and other programs that can help companies to fund their operations or cover operating costs while they work to repair their credit. It also provides mentorship, access to exclusive grants, and other resources that can benefit small businesses needing financial assistance.
Another government program that can help businesses in need is the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). This program provides loans to small businesses to cover payroll costs and other expenses. The funds are then forgiven if specific criteria are met, turning them into grants that don’t need to be repaid.
Final Thoughts
These strategies provide a variety of options for businesses dealing with bad credit. By understanding their options and taking advantage of available resources, these companies can get back on their feet and move toward financial success.