What to have ready before you apply for business funding
Five things that turn a slow, back-and-forth application into a decision in about a day.
Most funding delays aren't about the decision. They're about waiting on documents. Have these ready and your file moves fast.
1. Four months of business bank statements
Complete PDFs, every page, downloaded straight from your bank. If you're more than halfway through the current month, include month-to-date activity too.
2. Basic business details
Legal business name, any name you do business as, your address, your start date and your industry.
3. Owner information
Everyone who owns a meaningful share of the business, and their ownership percentage.
4. A list of what you already owe
Any current advances or loans: who they're with, roughly what's left, and how much you pay each day, week or month. Being upfront here saves time and builds trust.
5. What the money is for
A sentence is enough: "a second truck," "inventory for the holidays," "covering payroll while a big client pays." It helps match you with the right kind of funding.
Tip: If something on your statements looks unusual, like a big one-time deposit or a slow month, say so up front. Explaining early beats a reviewer guessing.
Want your real number? Start a request in about a minute and a specialist will walk you through your options. Check my options →
This guide is general information, not financial, legal or tax advice. Your accountant or attorney can help with your specifics.