Should I Take Out a Personal Loan to Start a Business?

While the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers SBA loans to new and established small business owners, these loans require the borrower to submit a business plan and often take some time to process — which can mean they’re out of reach for entrepreneurs who need quick access to cash for their ventures.

However, you might be able to get the startup funding you need through a personal loan. Although some lenders prohibit their loans from being used for business expenses, there are others that will let you use the funds to buy inventory, pay for marketing, or cover other business-related costs.

Here’s what you need to know about using a personal loan to start a business:

15 personal loans to start a businessWhat is the difference between an SBA loan and a personal loan?Pros of using a personal loan to start a businessCons of using a personal loan to start a businessApplying for a personal loan for a businessChoosing the right lender

15 personal loans to start a business

If you decide to take out a personal loan for your business, it’s important to consider as many lenders as possible. This way, you can find the right loan for your needs.

This is easy with Credible. You can compare your prequalified rates from our partner lenders that offer personal loans for business expenses below in just two minutes.

LenderFixed ratesLoan amountsLoan terms (years)

Credible Rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

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9.95% – 35.99% APR$2,000 to $35,0002, 3, 4, 5*Fixed APR:
9.95% – 35.99% APRVariable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
550Loan amount:
$2,000 to $35,000**Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5*Time to fund:
As soon as the next business day (if approved by 4:30 p.m. CT on a weekday)Fees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states except CO, IA, HI, VT, NV NY, WVCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
AvantLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, emergency expense, life event, home improvement, and other purposesMin. Income:
$1,200 monthly

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6.79% – 17.99% APR$10,000 to $50,0003, 4, 5, 6Fixed APR:
6.79% – 17.99% APRVariable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
700Loan amount:
$10,000 to $50,000Loan terms (years):
3 to 6Time to fund:
Next business dayFees:
No prepayment penaltyDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
Does not discloseLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, home improvement, self-employment, and other purposes

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4.99% – 35.99% APR$5,000 to $35,0002, 3, 4, 5Fixed APR:
4.99% – 35.99% APRVariable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
600Loan amount:
$2,000 to $50,000Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5Time to fund:
As soon as 1 – 3 business days after successful verificationFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all states except DC, IA, VT, and WVCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
Best Egg and Blue Ridge BankMin. Income:
NoneLoan Uses:
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes

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5.99% – 24.99% APR$2,500 to $35,0003, 4, 5, 6, 7Fixed APR:
5.99% – 24.99% APRMin. credit score:
660Loan amount:
$2,500 to $35,000Loan terms (years):
3, 4, 5, 6, 7Time to fund:
As soon as the next business day after acceptanceFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
YesLoan Uses:
Auto repair, credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home remodel or repair, major purchase, medical expenses, taxes, vacation, and wedding

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7.99% – 29.99% APR$10,000 to $50,0002, 3, 4, 5Fixed APR:
7.99% – 29.99% APRMin. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$10,000 to $50,000Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5Time to fund:
As soon as 2 business daysFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoEligibility:
Available in all states except CO, CT, HI, KS, NH, NY, ND, OR, VT, WV, WI, and WYCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
NoneLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, home improvement, wedding, travel, medical expenses, and other purposes

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7.04% – 35.89% APR$1,000 to $40,0003, 5Fixed APR:
7.04% – 35.89% APRMin. credit score:
600Loan amount:
$1,000 to $40,000Loan terms (years):
3, 5Time to fund:
Usually takes about 2 daysFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
LendingClub BankMin. Income:
NoneLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, paying off credit cards, home improvement, pool loans, vacations, and other purposes

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9.99% – 35.99% APR$2,000 to $36,5002, 3, 4Fixed APR:
9.99% – 35.99% APRMin. credit score:
580Loan amount:
$2,000 to $36,500Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4Time to fund:
As soon as the next business dayFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states except NV and WVCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
$20,000Loan Uses:
Home improvement, consolidate debt, credit card refinancing, relocate, make a large purchase, and other purposes

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2.49% – 19.99% APR$5,000 to $100,0002, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
(up to 12 years for home improvement loans)Fixed APR:
2.49% – 19.99% APRMin. credit score:
660Loan amount:
$5,000 to $100,000Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7*Time to fund:
As soon as the same business dayFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states except RI and VTCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
NoLoan servicer:
LightStreamMin. Income:
Does not discloseLoan Uses:
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes

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6.99% – 19.99% APR1$3,500 to $40,00023, 4, 5, 6, 7Fixed APR:
6.99% – 19.99% APR1Min. credit score:
660
(TransUnion FICO®️ Score 9)Loan amount:
$3,500 to $40,0002Loan terms (years):
3, 4, 5, 6Time to fund:
Many Marcus customers receive funds in as little as three daysFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
Goldman SachsMin. Income:
$30,000Loan Uses:
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, major purchase, and other purposes

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18.0% – 35.99% APR$1,500 to $20,0002, 3, 4, 5Fixed APR:
18.0% – 35.99% APRMin. credit score:
NoneLoan amount:
$1,500 to $20,000Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5Time to fund:
As soon as the same day, but usually requires a visit to a branch officeFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must have photo I.D. issued by U.S. federal, state or local governmentCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
Does not disclose

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5.99% – 17.99% APR$600 to $50,000
(depending on loan term)1, 2, 3, 4, 5Fixed APR:
5.99% – 17.99% APRMin. credit score:
660Loan amount:
$600 to $50,000*Loan terms (years):
1, 2, 3, 4, 5Time to fund:
2 to 4 business days after verificationFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Does not discloseCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
NoMin. Income:
Does not discloseLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, home improvement, transportation, medical, dental, life events

View details>
6.95% – 35.99% APR$2,000 to $40,0003, 5Fixed APR:
6.95% – 35.99% APRMin. credit score:
640Loan amount:
$2,000 to $40,000Loan terms (years):
3, 5Time to fund:
As soon as one business dayFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all states except IA, ND, WVCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
NoneLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, home improvement, vehicles, small business, new baby expenses, and other purposes

View details>
8.93% – 35.93% APR7$1,000 to $50,0003 to 5 years 8Fixed APR:
8.93% – 35.93% APR7Min. credit score:
560Loan amount:
$1,000 to $50,000Loan terms:
3 to 5 years 8Time to fund:
Within one day, once approved9Loan types:
Debt consolidation, pay off credit cards, home improvements, unexpected expenses, home and auto repairs, weddings, and other major purchasesFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
A U.S. citizen or permanent resident; not available in DC, SC, WVCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
Yes

View details>
5.94% – 35.97% APR$1,000 to $50,0002, 3, 5, 6Fixed APR:
5.94% – 35.97% APRMin. credit score:
560Loan amount:
$1,000 to $50,000*Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 5, 6Time to fund:
Within a day of clearing necessary verificationsFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states except West VirginiaCustomer service:
EmailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
Does not discloseLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, credit card refinancing, home improvement, and other purposes

View details>
4.37% – 35.99% APR4$1,000 to $50,00053 to 5 years4Fixed APR:
4.37% – 35.99% APR4Min. credit score:
580Loan amount:
$1,000 to $50,0005Loan terms (years):
3 to 5 years4Time to fund:
As fast as 1 business day6Fees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
$12,000Loan Uses:
Payoff credit cards, consolidate debt, take a course or bootcamp, relocate, make a large purchase, and other purposesCompare rates from these lenders without affecting your credit score. 100% free!

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All APRs reflect autopay and loyalty discounts where available | LightStream disclosure | 10SoFi Disclosures | Read more about Rates and Terms

What is the difference between an SBA loan and a personal loan?

Personal loans are offered by private lenders — such as online lenders as well as traditional banks and credit unions — and can be used for almost any personal expense, such as covering business costs. With a personal loan, you can typically borrow $600 up to $100,000 or more with repayment terms from one to seven years, depending on the lender.

SBA loans, on the other hand, are partially guaranteed by the Small Business Administration. With these types of loans, the SBA guarantees lenders that it will pay up to 85% of the loan if the borrower defaults. These loans range from $25,000 up to $5 million with repayment terms from five to 25 years (depending on how you use the loan).

If you’re considering an SBA loan vs. a personal loan, here are some important points to keep in mind:

SBA loanPersonal loanFixed rates5% to 8% + prime
(depending on loan amount)
2.49%+
(with Credible partner lenders)
Variable rates2.25% to 4.35% + base rate
(depending on loan amount and term)N/ALoan amount$25,000 to $5 million$600 to $100,000
(depending on the lender)Repayment terms5 to 25 years
(depending on how loan is used)Typically 1 to 7 years
(depending on the lender)RequirementsYour business must: Operate for profitBe engaged in or propose to do business in the U.S. or its territoriesHave reasonable amount of owner equity to invest
(usually $1 for every $3 borrowed)Use alternative funding sources (including personal assets) firstCan vary by lender but typically must have:Good creditVerifiable incomeLow debt-to-income ratioCredit eligibilityPersonal and company credit must show positive payment historiesGenerally have good to excellent creditTime to fund5 to 10 business days for standard loans36 hours for express loansUsually about 1 week
(depending on the lender)

SBA loan requirements

SBA loans also have additional requirements compared to personal loans. To be eligible, your business must:

Operate for profitBe engaged in or propose to do business in the U.S. or its territoriesHave a reasonable amount of owner equity to invest (generally, $1 of your own money to invest for each $3 borrowed)Use alternative financial resources (including personal assets) before seeking financial assistance

These requirements can make it harder to qualify for an SBA loan as a new business owner compared to getting a personal loan — especially since you’ll also need to provide a full business plan to the lender.

Also keep in mind that both your personal and business credit history will be considered for an SBA loan. However, you’ll also have the opportunity to explain any extenuating circumstances that might have affected your credit history to the lender.

Can I get an SBA loan with bad credit?

Possibly. The Small Business Administration doesn’t have a minimum required credit score for its loans. Instead, it’s up to the lenders that offer these loans to determine who to approve. In general, the credit reports for both you and your company should illustrate positive payment histories and demonstrate your ability to manage your obligations.

However, you might still be able to get an SBA loan with bad credit — for example, if you’ve been in business for several years or if there are extenuating circumstances that led to your poor credit score. In these cases, it could still be worth it to apply for an SBA loan even if you have less-than-stellar credit.

Learn More: How to Get a Personal Loan

Can I get a personal loan with bad credit?

You’ll typically need good to excellent credit to qualify for a personal loan — a good credit score is usually considered to be 700 or higher. There are also several lenders that offer personal loans for bad credit, but these loans tend to come with higher interest rates compared to good credit loans.

If you have bad credit and are struggling to get approved for a personal loan, here are a few options to consider:

Apply with a cosigner. Having a creditworthy cosigner can increase your approval chances and might also get you a better interest rate than you’d get on your own. Just remember that because your cosigner shares responsibility for the loan, they’ll be on the hook if you don’t make your payments.Take out a secured loan. While most personal loans are unsecured, there are also some lenders that provide secured personal loans that require collateral. Because these loans are less risky for the lender, it could be easier to qualify for one even if you have poor credit. However, keep in mind that if you can’t make your payments, you risk losing your collateral.Improve your credit. If you can wait to take out a loan, it could be worth spending some time building your credit so you’ll have an easier time qualifying in the future. There are several potential ways to do this, such as making on-time payments on all of your bills or paying down credit card balances.

Check Out: Personal Loans to Consider When You’re Self-Employed

Pros of using a personal loan to start a business

Taking out a personal loan to start a business can be a good choice in some cases, but it isn’t right for everyone. If you’re considering a personal loan, here are a few potential benefits to keep in mind:

Lower rates: Personal loan interest rates tend to be lower than rates on credit cards.Might be easier to qualify for: Unlike with SBA loans, you don’t have to worry about providing a full business plan or having owner equity to be eligible for a personal loan. Fast funding: You can usually expect to get your funds within one week — though some lenders will fund loans as soon as the same or next business day after approval.

Cons of using a personal loan to start a business

Fewer options for bad credit: You’ll generally need good to excellent credit to qualify for a personal loan — which means you could have a hard time getting approved if you have poor or fair credit.Smaller loan amounts: Personal loans typically range from $600 to $100,000 — less than the $25,000 to $5 million you could get with an SBA loan. Shorter repayment terms: You’ll generally have one to seven years to repay a personal loan, depending on the lender. SBA loans, on the other, provide terms of 10 to 25 years, depending on how you use the loan. Personal loan prosPersonal loan consLower rates than credit cardsCould be easier to qualify for than an SBA loanFast fundingFewer options for bad creditSmaller loan amountsShorter repayment terms

If you decide to take out a personal loan for your business, be sure to consider your overall loan cost. This way, you can be prepared for any added expenses.

You can estimate how much you’ll pay for a loan using our personal loan calculator below.

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pplying for a personal loan for a business

If you’re ready to apply for a personal loan for your business funding needs, follow these four steps:

Compare lenders. Be sure to shop around and compare as many personal loan lenders as possible to find the right loan for your situation. Consider not only interest rates but also repayment terms, any fees charged by the lender, and whether the lender allows its loans to be used for business purposes. Pick a loan option. After comparing lenders, choose the loan option that best suits your needs.Complete the application. Once you’ve picked a loan option, you’ll need to fill out a full application and submit any required documentation, such as pay stubs or tax returns.Get your funds. If you’re approved, the lender will require you to sign for the loan so the funds can be disbursed to you. The time to fund for a personal loan is usually about one week — though with some lenders, you could get your money as soon as the same or next business day after approval.

Learn More: Where to Get a Personal Loan

Choosing the right lender

As you weigh your options, it’s critical to take the time to compare as many lenders as you can so you can find the best loan for your business needs. Here are several important points to consider as you do your research:

Loan uses: While the majority of lenders allow personal loans to be used for almost any personal expense, some limit the uses of their loans — and others specifically prohibit using their loans for business purposes.Interest rates: Your interest rate is one of the biggest factors that will determine how much you end up paying for your loan over time. Your credit score and the repayment term you choose will also impact the rates you qualify for.Repayment terms: You’ll generally have one to seven years to repay a personal loan, depending on the lender. While picking a longer term could reduce your monthly payments, it’s usually best to choose the shortest term you can afford to keep your interest costs low. Many lenders also provide lower rates to borrowers who opt for shorter terms.Loan amounts: Personal loans typically range from $600 to $100,000 or more, depending on the lender. You’ll need to think about exactly how much you’ll need for your business and which lenders provide large enough loans.Credit requirements: Most lenders require borrowers to have good to excellent credit to qualify for a personal loan. While some lenders provide bad credit loans, remember that these loans usually have higher interest rates in comparison. If you have bad credit, you might want to consider applying with a cosigner — not all lenders allow cosigners on personal loans, but some do.

If you’re ready to compare your loan options, Credible can help: You can see your prequalified rates from multiple lenders in two minutes — without affecting your credit.

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The post Should I Take Out a Personal Loan to Start a Business? appeared first on Credible.

Should I Take Out a Personal Loan to Start a Business?

15 personal loans to start a business

What is the difference between an SBA loan and a personal loan?

SBA loan requirements

Can I get an SBA loan with bad credit?

Can I get a personal loan with bad credit?

Pros of using a personal loan to start a business

Cons of using a personal loan to start a business

Choosing the right lender

Gloria Stutler

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