Small Business Loans
PeoplesBank has aided in small businesses’ success since 1864. With customizable solutions, PeoplesBank is ready to help address your small business’s unique financing needs. As an approved Small Business Administration (SBA) preferred lender, we make it easier than ever to get small business loans in Pennsylvania or Maryland. Learn more about how PeoplesBank can help your business reach its full potential!
An SBA Preferred Lender
The Small Business Administration is a United States government agency created in 1953 to help small businesses. Some of its essential functions include helping small businesses receive funding for growth, expansion or debt refinancing. Many companies prefer to receive loans from the SBA due to the low interest rates and flexible repayment options.
When you apply for an SBA loan without the help of a Preferred Lender, it can take 60-90 days to move from application approval to funding. A Preferred Lenders Program streamlines the process by giving lenders such as PeoplesBank the ability to make decisions about SBA loans.
The Benefits of an SBA Loan
An SBA loan is an excellent option for small businesses seeking flexible terms for their loans, as well as those who may not qualify for traditional loans. Compared to other options, an SBA loan offers more benefits, including flexible repayment options that enhance success opportunities for smaller organizations.
There are many advantages to pursuing an SBA loan as a financing option for your small business.
Relaxed Requirements
Borrowing from the SBA enables banks to extend loan terms and offer loans to businesses that may not have qualified for funding if they pursued other loan options. Businesses that take out SBA loans also have greater flexibility in the purpose of their loan. Some potential uses of an SBA loan include:
- Purchase of assets such as machinery or equipment
- Refinancing debt
- Purchasing another business
- Improving current working capital
Lower Down Payments
Many SBA loans, such as the frequently borrowed SBA 7(a) loan, require down payments as low as 10% of the size of the loan. Non-SBA loans may require 20-30%, which is often too much for small businesses to pay. The SBA loan’s lower rate enables small businesses to keep more of their money in savings instead of fixed assets.
Longer Repayment Terms
The repayment period for an SBA loan is typically longer compared to other loans. Additionally, if your SBA loan has a term of 10 years or fewer, you can choose to pay back your loan earlier if you make enough revenue to do so.
Both New and Established Businesses Can Apply
Businesses in any industry, including franchise businesses, can apply for an SBA loan. Additionally, those who wish to start a new business or expand on an existing one can apply for an SBA loan if they meet the designated requirements.