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How to Get a Business Loan From the Government

Programs from the SBA and USDA offer affordable financing options.

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Randa Kriss

Should You Repay an SBA Loan Early?

You should repay your SBA loan early if the interest savings outweigh any prepayment penalties — and it makes sense for your financial situation.

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Randa Kriss

What Happens If You Use a Business Loan for Personal Expenses?

You shouldn't use a business loan for personal purposes. It violates your loan agreement and can have negative consequences for your company.

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Randa Kriss

Small Business Loans for Women: Best Options & How to Qualify

The best business loans for women help bridge the funding gap — empowering female entrepreneurs to grow and succeed.

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Randa Kriss, Karrin Sehmbi

Startup Business Loans for Bad Credit or No Collateral

You can get a startup business loan with bad credit or no collateral — but you should compare costs and evaluate risks carefully.

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Randa Kriss

Best Low-Interest Business Loans of 2026

Compare options from banks, SBA lenders and online lenders to find the best low-interest business loan for your needs.

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Randa Kriss, Ryan Brady, CFP®

Best Equipment Financing and Loans of 2026

Compare our top equipment lenders by rates, terms and eligibility. Plus, learn more about how this type of financing works.

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Randa Kriss

Can You Get a Business Loan Without a Business Bank Account?

You will most likely need a business bank account in order to get a small-business loan. Here's why.

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Randa Kriss

Can You Defer Payments on a Business Loan?

A business loan deferment lets struggling business owners temporarily pause payments to regain financial stability. Approval depends on clear communication and a solid recovery plan.

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Karrin Sehmbi

What Happens to Your SBA Loan if You File for Bankruptcy?

Outcomes vary depending on the type of bankruptcy filed, whether the loan is secured and whether a personal guarantee was signed.

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Randa Kriss

What a Government Shutdown Means for SBA Loans

Processing and approvals for most SBA loans will stop during a government shutdown.

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Randa Kriss

SBA MARC Loans: Pros, Cons, How to Qualify

Need working capital? SBA MARC loans offer big funding amounts, long terms and flexible repayment for small manufacturing businesses.

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Randa Kriss

How the Fed Rate Affects Small-Business Loans

With no change to the Fed rate, the prime rate remains at 6.75%.

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Randa Kriss

How to Prepare Your Small Business for a Recession

Strengthen your cash reserves, secure a business line of credit, make shopping easier for customers and cut unnecessary expenses before a financial crunch forces your hand.

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Ryan Brady, CFP®

Business Loans You Can Get After 6 Months in Operation

Although options may be somewhat limited, businesses with at least six months in operation can often get financing from online and community lenders.

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Randa Kriss

Can You Get a Business Loan with a 500 Credit Score?

Although you may be able to get a business loan with a 500 credit score, you should exercise caution, as available options can be expensive.

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Randa Kriss

What Is Business Loan Forbearance, and When Should You Request It?

Loan forbearance allows you to temporarily skip or reduce loan payments while you get your finances back on track.

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Ryan Brady, CFP®

Should You Restructure Your Business Loan?

Restructuring a business loan means permanently changing its terms to make monthly payments more manageable. But you’ll have to negotiate with your lender and prove financial hardship to qualify.

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Ryan Brady, CFP®

What Are Interest-Only Business Loan Payments?

Interest-only payments on a business loan may give you short-term relief if you’re facing financial difficulties.

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Ryan Brady, CFP®

Unsecured Business Loans: Best Options and How to Get One

Unsecured business loans can offer fast funding because they don't require physical collateral, but your business and personal assets may still be at risk.

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Randa Kriss