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Business Grants and Loans for People Previously Convicted of Felonies

Grants, loans and dedicated resources can help formerly incarcerated individuals fund and manage their businesses.

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Randa Kriss

Grants for Nonprofits: How to Get Free Funding in 2026

Nonprofit grants are available from a variety of sources. Here's a list of options.

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Randa Kriss

Confession of Judgment: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Signing a confession of judgment can put your business and its assets at risk if you default. If a lender is asking you to sign one, consider it a red flag.

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Olivia Chen, Ryan Brady, CFP®

Should You Get a Business Loan With a Co-signer?

Adding a co-signer to a business loan can help you qualify for funding and unlock better rates or terms. But it can also put your personal relationships at risk.

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Olivia Chen

Using an SBA 7(a) Loan to Buy a Business

SBA 7(a) loans can be an affordable option when you want to buy an existing business or increase ownership in your current business — as long as you can qualify.

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Randa Kriss

Hard Money Business Loans: What They Are and When to Get One

Although hard money loans can offer quick and easy funds, business owners should be wary of their high rates and short terms.

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Randa Kriss

How to Refinance a Business Loan

Refinancing may make sense if your business can qualify for lower rates or better terms — but it’s not right in every situation.

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Randa Kriss, Olivia Chen

What Is a UCC Filing?

UCC filings are a common practice lenders use to secure a business loan, but it’s important you understand how they work and their repercussions.

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Randa Kriss

Small Businesses Face Economic Strain Even With Loyal Patrons

NERDWALLET 2022 SMALL BUSINESS CHECK-IN

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Elizabeth Renter

Debt Factoring: What It Is, Advantages and Disadvantages

Debt factoring can be a good option for B2B companies that want access to cash tied up in unpaid invoices, but fees may be expensive.

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Randa Kriss

Business Capital: Definition and Where to Get It

Business capital can add value to your business, and may come in the form of debt, equity or grants.

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Olivia Chen

What Is a Factor Rate and How Do You Calculate It?

Factor rates are often used for merchant cash advances and short-term loans. Here’s how to convert them into interest rates to better understand the cost of financing.

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Randa Kriss, Ryan Brady, CFP®

Startup Business Grants: Best Free Funding Options

Startup grants are limited — especially for brand-new businesses — but some programs do accept early-stage applicants. Here are the best options.

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Randa Kriss

Pros and Cons of SBA Loans

There’s a lot to like about SBA loans, but they also come with some drawbacks that are worth considering.

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Lisa Anthony

What Are Business Loans and How Do They Work?

Business loans help fund growth, but startups and bad-credit borrowers may struggle to qualify. If you can't afford or want to avoid debt, consider other funding options.

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Randa Kriss, Rosalie Murphy

Business Loan vs. Personal Loan: Which Is Right for You?

Use this guide to compare business loans vs. personal loans and choose the right option for your needs.

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Randa Kriss, Lisa Anthony

Recourse vs. Non-Recourse Factoring: What’s the Difference?

With recourse factoring, you're responsible for the debt if your customers don’t pay. With non-recourse factoring, the factoring company accepts the loss for nonpayment.

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Randa Kriss

Can You Get a Startup Business Loan With an EIN Only?

Possibly. But you’ll likely need to rely on your business credit score or explore alternative financing options.

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Ryan Brady, CFP®

Payroll Loans: What They Are, Types and Best Options

A payroll loan can save the day when you’re short on cash to pay your employees, but they may be expensive.

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Randa Kriss, Lisa Anthony

Can You Get a Small-Business Loan With a Tax Lien?

Yes, but your options will be limited. Take steps to resolve the lien to improve your odds of getting a business loan.

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Kelsey Sheehy, Ryan Brady, CFP®