Applying for an SBA Loan: Minimum Credit Score Requirements (2024)

FAQs

Applying for an SBA Loan: Minimum Credit Score Requirements? ›

The minimum credit score required for an SBA loan depends on the type of loan. For SBA Microloans, the minimum credit score is typically between 620-640. For SBA 7(a) loans, the minimum credit score is typically 640, but borrowers may find greater success if they can boost their credit score into the 680+ range.

SBA-qualified lenders usually set their own criteria when assessing your eligibility. Most lenders will require a minimum FICO score of 620 or higher for their SBA Loans.

The most common reasons SBA loans are denied are poor credit, too much existing debt, or insufficient collateral. Other reasons include: Prior bankruptcy. Negative taxable income.

Eligibility requirements

Normally, businesses must meet SBA size standards, be able to repay, and have a sound business purpose. Even those with bad credit may qualify for startup funding. The lender will provide you with a full list of eligibility requirements for your loan.

Credit scores are used by lenders to assess whether you are likely to repay your loan, based on your past history with using credit. For example, a lender will look at both your personal financial information and your business financial statements to evaluate your request for an SBA small business loan.

The minimum credit score required for an SBA loan depends on the type of loan. For SBA Microloans, the minimum credit score is typically between 620-640. For SBA 7(a) loans, the minimum credit score is typically 640, but borrowers may find greater success if they can boost their credit score into the 680+ range.

While there's no official required SBA loan minimum credit score from the Small Business Administration, lenders will often set minimum credit score requirements for both personal and business. An SBSS of 140 to 160+ or a personal score of 620 to 640+ are commonly needed to qualify.

Thanks to the wide range of permitted loan uses, an SBA Express loan is financing that's easy to approve and is likely perfect for your startup's needs.

Low credit scores are a common reason why it's difficult to get an SBA loan. Banks are risk-averse, and usually, require borrowers to have a FICO score above 650.

The business owners personal credit history and personal credit score are very important in the businesses credit worthiness in the eyes of the SBA. It's important to have excellent credit history and a good personal credit score, with a standard minimum credit score of at least 680 to have the best chance of approval.

Do people get denied for SBA loans? ›

You're not alone if you applied for an SBA loan and were denied. Most small businesses struggle to qualify, with over 50% of applicants being rejected. You can take concrete steps to improve your application, whether applying for the first time, trying to appeal a denial, or reapplying for a loan.

Normally, your personal credit report shouldn't be impacted by a business loan, even if you've personally guaranteed the loan. Business debt and payment history do not affect your credit score, unless the business defaults on the loan, in which case your personal credit can be negatively impacted.

It is possible to get a small business loan even if you have bad credit. This is because your credit score doesn't matter as much as the overall financial health of your business. Many lenders require a minimum credit score of 500, at least six months in business, and more than $30,000 in annual revenue.

Many statistics say that large banks approve SBA loans at rates as low as 20-30%, while smaller banks approve SBA loans at around 40% or less.

To be eligible for a business line of credit, applicants must have a minimum personal FICO credit score of at least 660 at the time of application, have been in business for at least one year, have a valid business checking account and have an average monthly revenue of at least $3,000.

The business owners personal credit history and personal credit score are very important in the businesses credit worthiness in the eyes of the SBA. It's important to have excellent credit history and a good personal credit score, with a standard minimum credit score of at least 680 to have the best chance of approval.

Do SBA loans require a down payment? Yes, the minimum SBA loan down payment requirement is 10% for 7(a) and 504 loans, although this amount can vary based on a business's cash flow and collateral. For example, weak cash flow or low-value collateral can increase the down payment requirement to 30% of the loan amount.

It is possible to get a small business loan even if you have bad credit. This is because your credit score doesn't matter as much as the overall financial health of your business. Many lenders require a minimum credit score of 500, at least six months in business, and more than $30,000 in annual revenue.