Wednesday, February 25, 2026

5 Direct Lenders for Small Business Loans You Should Know About

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If you’re exploring small business loans, knowing the right lenders can make a significant difference. Several direct lenders offer unique benefits customized to various business needs. For instance, Fundbox simplifies the application process, whereas Fora Financial provides incentives for early repayments. At the same time, BlueVine focuses on startups, and OnDeck rewards loyalty. National Funding particularly aids businesses with poor credit. Comprehending these options could help you find the right fit for your financial situation. Which lender aligns best with your goals?

Key Takeaways

  • Fundbox offers quick approvals for short-term lines of credit, requiring a minimum annual revenue of $100,000 and a FICO score of 600 or higher.
  • Fora Financial provides early payment discounts and flexible loan terms, with funding available in as little as 72 hours.
  • BlueVine is ideal for startups, requiring only three months in business and a minimum monthly revenue of $10,000 for qualification.
  • OnDeck rewards repeat customers with loyalty benefits and requires one year in business along with an annual revenue of $100,000.
  • National Funding specializes in loans for businesses with poor credit, accepting scores as low as 475 and offering straightforward application processes.

Fundbox: Easiest Nonbank Lending Application

When you’re looking for a straightforward way to secure funding, Fundbox stands out as one of the easiest nonbank lending options available. This online platform specializes in short-term lines of credit and loans, offering various term lengths, which can be customized to your business needs.

Fundbox connects directly to your accounting software or business checking account, streamlining the application process and allowing for quick approvals without origination fees or penalties for early payoff. To qualify, you’ll need a minimum annual revenue of $100,000, and your business should be operational for at least six months, with a FICO score of 600 or higher.

This flexibility makes Fundbox an attractive choice among direct business lenders for small business loans. If you’re in urgent need of capital, Fundbox can provide funding shortly after approval, ensuring you have access to the resources necessary for your business growth.

Fora Financial: Offers Early Payment Discounts

Fora Financial stands out as a viable option for small business owners seeking working capital, particularly due to its unique offering of early payment discounts. This feature incentivizes you to pay off your loans ahead of schedule, allowing you to save money without incurring penalties.

Here are some key advantages of choosing Fora Financial:

  • Flexible Loan Terms: You can access loans with terms extending up to 15 months, customized to fit your business needs.
  • Quick Approval Process: With a streamlined application, you can secure approval in 24 hours or less, getting funds in as little as 72 hours.
  • Eligibility Criteria: You’ll find the requirements manageable, needing at least six months in operation and specific sales thresholds.

BlueVine: Best for Startups

If you’re a startup looking for financial support, BlueVine offers personalized solutions that can help you manage your cash flow effectively.

This financial technology company specializes in services like invoice factoring and revolving lines of credit, customized particularly for new businesses. The application process is quick, taking just five to ten minutes, where you can easily connect your accounting software or upload invoices for prompt approval.

With BlueVine, you can secure revolving lines of credit with terms ranging from six to twelve months, providing much-needed flexibility. Approval decisions are typically made within 24 hours, allowing you to access funding swiftly when necessary.

To qualify, verify you’re in business for at least three months, have a FICO score of 530 or higher, and generate a minimum of $10,000 in monthly revenue.

BlueVine’s offerings can be a vital resource for your startup’s financial needs.

OnDeck: Offers Loyalty Benefits

OnDeck stands out in the small business loan arena by offering unique loyalty benefits designed to reward repeat customers. If you’re a business owner looking for a reliable lender, OnDeck’s approach could be appealing. They require a minimum of one year in business, a credit score of at least 600, and annual revenue of $100,000 to qualify.

With OnDeck, you can enjoy benefits such as:

  • Waiving remaining interest on existing loans once 50% is paid down and new funding is secured.
  • Prepayment options that let you pay off loans early without incurring additional interest, though this may involve higher rates.
  • Quick approval process, ensuring you receive funding swiftly when you need it.

These loyalty benefits cultivate long-term relationships, making OnDeck a solid choice for small businesses aiming to grow and maintain financial stability.

National Funding: Best for Businesses With Bad Credit

National Funding is an excellent option for businesses struggling with bad credit, making it easier for you to access the financing you need. Specializing in loans for those with poor, average, or no credit, they accept scores as low as 475 for renewing applicants.

You can secure funding from $5,000 to $500,000, with equipment financing options available up to $150,000. One attractive feature is their early payoff discounts, offering 6% off for equipment financing and 7% off for capital loans paid off within 100 days.

The application process is straightforward, allowing you to obtain funds without collateral. With over 20 years of experience, National Funding has provided customized financial solutions to more than 75,000 businesses across the U.S.

This makes them a reliable choice for those needing financial support in spite of credit challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Lenders for Small Business Loans?

To find the best lenders for small business loans, consider options like National Funding, which caters to businesses with low credit scores, and Credibly, known for quick pre-qualification.

Fundbox streamlines short-term loans, whereas BlueVine offers credit lines ideal for startups. OnDeck provides unique loyalty benefits for existing borrowers.

Each lender has specific requirements, so evaluate your business’s financial situation and needs to identify the most suitable option for you.

Can I Use My EIN Number to Get a Loan?

Yes, you can use your Employer Identification Number (EIN) to get a loan. Lenders often require an EIN to verify your business’s legal status and assess its creditworthiness.

This number acts like a Social Security number for your business, enhancing your credibility and professionalism. During some lenders may accept an EIN for sole proprietors, it’s especially beneficial for partnerships and corporations, as it establishes a separate legal identity, improving your chances of loan approval.

What Is the Monthly Payment on a $50,000 Business Loan?

The monthly payment on a $50,000 business loan depends on the interest rate, loan term, and repayment structure.

For instance, at a 7% interest rate, you’d pay about $1,000 monthly over five years or around $1,540 over three years.

If the interest rate rises to 10%, expect payments of approximately $1,610 for both terms.

Always consider potential fees that could affect your total monthly payment when evaluating your loan options.

What Is the Easiest SBA Loan to Get Approved For?

The easiest SBA loan to get approved for is the SBA 7(a) loan. This loan offers flexible eligibility requirements and amounts ranging from $500 to $5.5 million, catering to various business needs.

You typically need to have a solid credit history and a well-prepared business plan. It’s advisable to exhaust non-government financing options first.

Many lenders as well provide ongoing support, which can improve both your approval chances and loan management.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these five direct lenders offer distinct advantages customized to various business needs. Fundbox’s quick application process eliminates origination fees, whereas Fora Financial provides incentives for early repayments. For startups, BlueVine presents flexible funding options, and OnDeck rewards loyal customers with favorable terms. Finally, National Funding guarantees access to capital for those with poor credit. By comprehending these offerings, you can make informed decisions that best support your small business’s financial requirements.

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Mike Brown
Mike Brown
Mike Brown is a small business finance expert and writer dedicated to helping entrepreneurs manage their finances with confidence. With over a decade of experience in financial planning, budgeting, and cash flow management, Michael has guided countless business owners in improving profitability and achieving financial stability. His insights on business loans, accounting strategies, and expense management have been featured in leading finance publications. Mike’s practical advice empowers small business owners to make informed financial decisions. When he's not writing about finance, Mike enjoys playing chess and exploring local history museums.

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