Question 1

What Should I Do Before I Apply For A Business Loan?

Accepted Answer

We recommend you complete our business funding questionnaire and schedule a complimentary consultation with a member of our team. We can help you prepare for the conversation with your lender and make sure you put your best foot forward. We want you to succeed, even if you don't hire us. We are small business owners too!

Question 2

How Do I Know If I Qualify For A Business Loan?

Accepted Answer

There are several factors that go into determining qualification and ultimately approval. Some of the things to consider are: length of time since business was established, business' credit rating, owner's personal credit history, debt service coverage, quality of collateral, business revenue trends, industry trends, liquidity, lender's portfolio concentration, lender's appetite, banker's experience, etc.

Question 3

What Is Debt Service Coverage?

Accepted Answer

Simply put, Debt Service Coverage is a ratio that measures cash flow. A lender will compare both business and personal debt to business and personal income. The higher the ratio, the stronger the cash flow. Annual Income available to service debt divided by long and short term debt annual payment.

Question 4

Is There Any Down Side To Applying For A Business Loan On My Own?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Lots of business owners have successfully navigated the business lending process. We are here to help business owners that fall into one of more of these categories: first time borrowers that aren't familiar with the process, business owners that don't have an established relationship with an experienced business banker, business owners that are too busy or not interested in filling out all the forms that go along with a business funding application, business owners that have navigated the process before and would rather outsource the bulk of the process and business owners that want to find the best and quickest path to funds. If you fall into one of one of these categories, let's chat. 904-830-6747 or complete the business funding questionnaire and set up a free 45 minute consultation.

Question 5

Will FSC Fill Out The Paperwork For Me If I Don't Need A Consultation?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! If you already know what you need and where you plan to apply, one of our consultants will complete all applicable forms and applications requested by your lender: Application, Personal Financial Statement, Debt Schedules, Tax verification forms (4506t or 4506c), Tax Payer Consent Forms, Attestations, etc.

Question 6

If I Was Declined For A Business Loan Recently, How Long Should I Wait To Try Again?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the reason for the decline. In some cases, loans can be declined by one lender but approved by another. Different lenders have different appetites. If the decline was based on poor credit or lack of cash flow, you may need to wait until your situation improves or consider an alternative funding source. We are happy to offer a free consultation to determine your next steps.

Question 7

Should I Request A Loan Or A Line Of Credit?

Accepted Answer

The type of credit product and term should be based on the purpose. For example: A line of credit might be the best option if you have a short term or a seasonal borrowing need. A loan is usually a better option if you are purchasing an asset that has the ability to pay for itself over time (equipment or real estate, etc.) If a loan is the right choice, be sure your term doesn't exceed the life expectancy of the asset.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS