Business Loan Types and Payment Calculations
Business loans provide capital for starting, operating, or expanding a company. Unlike personal loans, business loans are evaluated based on business creditworthiness, revenue, time in business, and industry risk. Understanding different loan types and their payment structures helps businesses choose appropriate financing and manage cash flow effectively.
Term loans are the most straightforward business financing. You receive a lump sum and repay with fixed monthly payments over a set period (1-10 years). Interest rates range from 6-30% depending on creditworthiness, with stronger businesses qualifying for lower rates. Term loans work well for specific investments like equipment, expansion, or large inventory purchases where ROI exceeds the cost of capital.
SBA loans, guaranteed by the Small Business Administration, offer favorable terms: lower interest rates, longer repayment periods, and lower down payments. The SBA 7(a) loan program provides up to $5 million with terms extending to 25 years for real estate. However, SBA loans require extensive documentation, longer approval times (30-90 days), and personal guarantees from owners with 20%+ equity.
Business lines of credit provide revolving credit similar to credit cards but with higher limits and lower rates. You draw funds as needed and pay interest only on the outstanding balance. Lines of credit work well for managing seasonal cash flow, covering unexpected expenses, or taking advantage of time-sensitive opportunities. Credit limits typically range from $10,000 to $1 million based on revenue and credit profile.
Calculating business loan affordability requires analyzing debt service coverage ratio (DSCR): annual net operating income divided by annual debt payments. Most lenders require DSCR of 1.25x or higher, meaning income should exceed debt payments by at least 25%. A business with $150,000 annual income can afford approximately $120,000 in annual debt payments, or $10,000 monthly.