When Short-Term Business Loans Are Perfect For Your Company?
If you are a small business owner, there are many reasons to apply for a business loan. Perhaps you are trying to get your business off the ground or take it to the next level. It can also be that you are trying to address short-term cash flow issues. In all these scenarios, you can choose a short-term business loan.
It is especially true when long-term loans are not the ideal option for your business needs. For example, borrowing money to take advantage of large discounts on short-term inventory is not the same as borrowing money to buy new stock. Most individuals never buy a new car with a 30-year loan. It is because the interest makes the overall cost of the vehicle unreasonably high. Instead, you should consider short-term business loans to meet short-term needs.
What is a short-term business loan?
Working capital loans, often known as short-term business loans, are designed to give small business owners immediate access to the working capital they need to meet their short-term financial challenges. Loans with terms of 1 months to 2 years are considered short-term loans. A short-term business loan can be helpful if your business is facing liquidity issues or has the opportunity to take advantage of lucrative offers.
How do short-term business loans work?
As mentioned above, short-term asset finance is similar to regular business loans, except they have a shorter repayment period. Short-term repayment terms typically range from 1 months to 2 years but are usually less than 12 months.
These loans, like other term loans, require the borrowed funds to be received as a one-time payment and repaid in a lump sum at the end of the loan term. However, in some cases, it may be possible to obtain a revolving credit line. Most line of credit have a fixed term, but unlike term loans, you can always use the line of credit for as long as you need to repay what you borrowed. After repaying the previously borrowed amount, you can use the limit for the duration of the line of credit. Also, pay interest only on the balance you use.
You usually have to pay traditional instalment loans monthly, while short-term loans may require weekly or daily payments. Short term loans can also have all their costs capitalised so there are no need for regular repayments, this is especially handy to assist with cash flow.
When to apply for short-term asset finance?
Short-term business loans may be beneficial or necessary in many circumstances. You should consider a short-term business loan if you are facing any of the following challenges:
Business Opportunity
Approvals and funding are typically faster than traditional loans (up to 24 hours in some cases) and are less demanding. However, you should use this type of financing if the funds can increase sales or improve your business’s bottom line.
Unexpected Expenses
You cannot always avoid expenses, nor can they be delayed until the cash is ready. When a business faces unexpected needs such as building, equipment, or fleet maintenance, short-term bridging finance can help them get through the tough times.
Cash Flow Problems
Some companies are more prone to short-term cash flow problems than others. If your business is suffering from seasonal delays or other regular cash flow issues, short-term bridging finance can help you to keep production running and pay your employees during the downturn months. But you should ensure that you can repay the loan when revenue is generated. Whether adding staff or building up inventory, you will need funds to sustain yourself during the busiest times of the year. With the rush of shopping during the holidays, it is easy to cover the cost of a loan.
Short-Term Operating Costs
Occasionally a customer needs a little help because they have requested an unusually large number of orders. If you do not have the resources to help you with this particular aspect, short-term asset finance can be the right choice to keep your business moving forward.
Emergencies
You may have good business insurance, but businesses sometimes face situations they are unprepared for. Examples include computer crashes, mechanical failures, and even natural disasters. A short-term loan protects your business from bankruptcy.
Planning For Expansion
Most entrepreneurs take short-term loans when they need funding to expand. Whether expanding your service or product line or starting a second business, such expansion may require initial capital that you do not have. Short-term loans provide that capital and once profits start flowing, it is not a problem to pay it back.
If you are short on cash and need a short-term loan to cover your operating expenses, look at the company’s finances and budget before making any finance application. Find out if loan funds will boost your company’s sales or improve its finances and solvency. Then find out how much you can afford with your monthly (or weekly) payments and choose a loan that fits your budget.
Final Verdict
Short-term business loans are a viable option for businesses that need financing to manage fluctuations in working capital, take advantage of significant opportunities and meet operational needs. The Australian financial market offers a variety of business loans, including short-term business loans.