Photo by Katie Harp – Pinterest Manager on Unsplash
Online loans are gaining popularity over more traditional forms of borrowing. That’s because the convenience offered by online lenders appeals to business owners who need access to quick funds. Online loans require minimal paperwork and are easy to qualify for, especially if you aren’t eligible for traditional loans.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind while shopping for a suitable online lender.
Get Your Business in Order
Before you approach a lender, get your business in order. Ensure that all the records and documentations are accurate and in place. This suggestion doesn’t just concern the physical paperwork. Also, take a look at your business plan and cash flow.
Additionally, be sure you can answer these questions: How much working capital do you require? What kind of payment plan are you comfortable with? By keeping these answers in mind you will be able to find a suitable online loan.
Moreover, if you feel like this isn’t your strong suit, seek local financial resources and visit business development centers. They will be able to provide guidance.
RELATED ARTICLE: REMEMBER THE TAX MAN: TAX CONSEQUENCES OF DEBT RELIEF FOR BUSINESSES
Research Your Lender Options
Make the most of the resources at your disposal. From the Internet to small business development centers, use all the resources you have available to you.
Also, keep in mind that a flashy website offering an online loan is not enough. Instead, look for a lender that offers a reasonable interest rate and repayment periods you’re comfortable with. Also, ensure that the lender has verified online security.
Additionally, check online reviews to find a lender that has a reputation for good customer service. Most consumers read reviews for even the most mundane household items, so deciding about an online loan should be no different. Read unbiased reviews on trusted sites and in reputed publications to make a prudent decision. For example, Working Capital, LLC offers fast approval and funding with no minimum credit score requirement.
Beware of Scammers with Online Loans
The online world is still majorly difficult to govern, giving leeway to scammers and false advertisers. However, avoid the temptation of a too-good-to-be-true offer for an online loan. A legitimate online lender will offer a reasonable rate of interest instead of a suspiciously low rate.
Accordingly, be cautious and take your time. Thoroughly read through the terms and conditions for any online loan to ensure there are no hidden charges. Rushing into a skeptical deal might cost you more than you can afford.
Look Beyond the Rate of Interest for any Online Loan
The rate of interest isn’t the sole factor that determines the entire cost of an online loan. In addition to that, you need to ask about the other fees and charges involved. It’s a major red flag if a lender doesn’t disclose these expenses. You should be clear regarding the application fees, processing fees, late payment penalties, prepayment penalties, origination fees, and other such charges for an online loan.
Ascertain the Annual Percentage Rate for an Online Loan
Fraudulent lenders are notorious for disguising misleading information in the fine print. Instead of clearly stating the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for an online loan, they might vaguely state their pricing as “factor rate,” “cost,” or “general rate.”
For instance, a lender’s “factor rate” of 15 percent actually could be equivalent to 50 percent interest rate, which is completely unrealistic for any loan, including an online loan.
So stay focused on learning the APR. This is an all-in-one figure that includes the interest rate, fees, and loan term. If a lender refuses to provide an APR for your online loan, look for an alternative.
Sort Out Your Bad Debt
If you’re in an unfavorable debt situation that has kept you in a debt trap, this is the time to get out of it. You can refinance this high-priced debt by securing a low-rate long-term online loan.
Typically, it is much easier and faster to procure a loan from an online lender than a traditional institution. So look for a lender than can match your small business requirements and help you eliminate your bad debt.
Conclusion
Finally, remember that a small online loan could help you reach your business goals. However, don’t settle for any too-good-to-be-true options, because they probably are. A hasty decision can ruin the future of your business. So take your time and choose wisely.
