Frequently asked questions

An independent Australian information site about business finance. We review every common type of business loan, publish guides and a glossary, and provide free calculators. Readers who want help can make one enquiry and be connected with a lending partner.

Neither. We do not lend money and we do not shop applications around a panel. If you enquire, your details go to one lending partner suited to the finance you describe.

Because the price and terms a lender offers depend on the business asking. A ranking would suggest a certainty that does not exist. We review loan types and features instead and give you tools to compare the offers you receive.

Business credit is priced individually, and advertised rates often leave out fees or apply only to the strongest applicants. Our calculators use the dollar figures in your own offers, which is a fairer comparison.

When a reader chooses to enquire and goes on to arrange finance with one of our lending partners. We do not sell advertising or accept payment to feature products. See how we are funded for details.

No. There is no credit check when you first enquire. A check only happens if you decide to proceed with an application, and you will be asked first.

A rough amount and purpose, how long you have traded, approximate monthly revenue, your state, whether you own real estate and your contact details. It takes a couple of minutes.

A real person who works with business finance every day. They will check a few details and talk through realistic options.

No. Enquiring is free and you can decide not to go ahead at any point.

It depends on turnover, profit, existing debts, credit history and security. Unsecured and cash-flow finance for trading businesses typically ranges from $5,000 to $500,000. Property-secured business loans typically range from $20,000 to $5,000,000.

Sometimes. Past credit issues are considered case by case, with recent bank statement conduct, the reason for the problem and any security all playing a part. Our bad credit business loans review explains the options.

Options are narrower for very new businesses, but they exist, particularly where the owner has industry experience, a deposit or property to offer as security. See our startup business loans review.

No. Many businesses borrow unsecured based on turnover and bank statements. Property security can increase the amount available and widen the options.

Some lenders will lend to clear or reduce an ATO debt. Compare that option with an ATO payment plan first; our guide on ATO payment plans versus business loans covers both.

Usually ID, ABN details and recent business bank statements, plus financial statements, tax returns and ATO statements for larger loans. Our documents guide has the full list.

Smaller unsecured loans can sometimes be decided within a day or two once documents are in. Property-secured and larger loans take longer because security has to be checked and documented.

Compare the total you repay plus fees against the cash you receive, over the same term, then compare security, guarantees and payout terms. Our offer comparison calculator does the maths.