Business Loan Requirements

*Advice given in this article is general only and may not apply to you. Always speak with a financial expert if you have questions about your circumstances. Content correct and up to date at time of publishing, May 2023.

The requirements for a business loan are often quite strict regardless of what lender you choose, and that’s despite offering up your own collateral. Businesses have to be open for a minimum amount of time, and they have to have a gross income of a minimum amount as well for approval. There are different requirements depending on if your business is registered as a sole proprietor, partnership or corporation.

Why are there so many requirements?

Business loans are considered far more risky to lenders than personal loans, which is why the criteria for lending is so stringent. Documentary requirements vary, but note that the number one reason for declined loans is the lack of correct documents, so peruse the list carefully and prepare them well in advance of your loan application to save yourself time and stress. 

Common requirements from various lenders are listed below:

For sole proprietors and individuals

  1. Duly accomplished application form​
  2. DTI Registration/Business Permit​
  3. 2x valid borrower’s ID​
  4. Spouse’s ID (if applicable)​
  5. Last 3 months bank statement (BPI and/or other banks)​
  6. Income Tax Return (ITR) for minimum 1 year, preferably the last 3 years
  7. Audited Financial Statements (AFS) for minimum 1 year, preferably the last 3 years

For partnerships and corporations

  1. SEC Registration
  2. Latest General Information Sheet
  3. Articles of Incorporation/Partnership (including amendments. if any)
  4. By-Laws (including amendments, if any)
  5. 2 valid IDs of majority shareholders/authorized signatories
  6. Minimum 1, preferably 3 months most recent bank statements 
  7. Minimum 1, preferably 3 most recent Income Tax Returns (ITR)
  8. Minimum 1, preferably 3 most recent Audited Financial Statements (AFS) 

What's the final take away?

This list is not exhaustive but is instead used as an example of the variety of documents you may need to prepare for a business loan.

Requirements vary for every bank and can include other documents such as 6 months worth of bank statements, a complete list of your clients and suppliers, mayor’s permits, a bank account with the specific bank you’re applying for and more.

Keep up to date with your preferred lender by checking their website or using a mortgage broker.

On Key
Related Posts
On Key
Related Posts