Turned down by the bank? Here are your options
A bank denial is not the end of the road. Banks mostly look at credit scores and years of tax returns. Plenty of other options look at what your business is doing today.
1. Ask why, and fix what you can
Banks have to tell you why you were declined. Sometimes it's something fixable, like a missing document or too little time in business, and you can reapply later.
2. SBA microloans and CDFIs
Community lenders (CDFIs) and SBA microloan programs often work with newer businesses and owners the big banks pass on. Rates are usually reasonable, though the process takes time.
3. Equipment financing
If you need a specific machine or vehicle, the equipment itself can secure the financing, which makes approval easier.
4. Invoice factoring
If customers pay you on 30–90 day terms, a factoring company can advance money against those invoices.
5. Revenue-based funding (merchant cash advance)
If money comes into your business account every month, funders may advance you money against future sales. They look at your deposits, not your credit score, and sales can be up, down, or seasonal. It costs more than a bank loan, but it's fast and doesn't depend on the things the bank turned you down for. How it works.
6. Work with a broker
Instead of applying to funders one at a time, a broker sends one application to several funders that fit and brings you the offers. With us, that's free for you; funders pay us when a deal closes. Start an application, or check if you qualify in two minutes.
General information only, not financial or legal advice. Every funder sets its own terms; your offer shows the exact numbers before you sign.