Unsecured Business Loans

Hello Business Owner!

My name is Louis, and I am writing today to try to demystify the world of unsecured business loans.

When you look at financing for your business, there are a lot of different options available out there in the marketplace.

There are not only many types of business loans but there are also many versions of the same loan repackaged into slight variations of each other but called different things.

This means if you have never borrowed money for your business before it can be a little overwhelming to get started.

In this article, I will provide two different things. Factual information about the mechanics of the loan type and then some helpful case studies to help put the loan type’s use into context.

So, if you are a growing business in Australia looking to increase your cash flow flexibility, buy new equipment or hire more staff but don’t have the cash on hand then keep reading.

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Unlocking Your Business Potential with Unsecured Mortgage Options

As a business owner your company may occasionally want or need a cash injection to ensure its continued success and expansion.

Don’t worry; it’s a normal element of building a successful business and has nothing to do with how hard you’re working.

When companies come to us, they are typically interested in quickening the rate of expansion.

Do you find that exciting?

It could refer to investing in new equipment, increasing staff size, or launching creative advertising campaigns. For any cause, know that you have our full backing.

If you’re unfamiliar with the phrase “unsecured business loan,” you’re in good company. We have helped numerous companies understand the merits of this type of borrowing.

In this article, we’ll compare and contrast several types of company loans, focusing on the advantages of an unsecured loan. If you’re ready to take your company to the next level, keep reading!

What Is An Unsecured Business Loan?

An unsecured business loan is simply a loan that doesn’t require collateral. This means that you don’t have to put up any of your assets, such as property or equipment, as security for the loan.

Instead, the lender will look at your creditworthiness and the potential profitability of your business to decide whether or not to approve the loan. This can be a great option for businesses that don’t have a lot of assets to use as collateral, or for those that don’t want to put their assets at risk.

Keep in mind that unsecured business loans may have higher interest rates than secured loans because the lender is taking on more risk. But overall, they can be a helpful way to get the funding you need to grow your business.

How Do Unsecured Business Loans Work?

An unsecured business loan is a type of business loan that does not require the borrower to provide collateral, such as property or equipment, as security for the loan.

Instead, the lender relies on the creditworthiness of the borrower which is a fancy way of saying their ability to repay the loan.

Because there is no collateral involved, unsecured business loans are often easier to obtain than secured loans, but they may also come with higher interest rates to compensate the lender for the added risk.

To apply for an unsecured business loan, the borrower typically needs to provide personal and business financial information, including tax returns, bank statements, and a detailed business plan.

Secured Vs Unsecured Loans: What’s The Difference?

Secured and unsecured loans are two different types of business loans that differ in how they are collateralised, or backed by assets.

What Is A Secured Loan?

A secured loan is a loan that is backed by collateral, such as property or equipment, that the borrower agrees to surrender to the lender if they fail to repay the loan according to the terms of the agreement.

In contrast, an unsecured loan is a loan that is not backed by collateral, and the lender relies on the borrower’s creditworthiness and ability to repay the loan.

There are several key differences between secured and unsecured loans:

Risk To The Lender

Secured loans tend to be less risky for the lender because they have the option to seize the collateral if the borrower defaults on the loan.

As a result, secured loans may have lower interest rates and more favourable terms than unsecured loans.

Unsecured loans are riskier for the lender because they do not have the option to seize the collateral if the borrower defaults. As a result, unsecured loans may have higher interest rates and less favourable terms.

Collateral Vs No Collateral

Secured loans require the borrower to offer collateral to the lender, while unsecured loans do not. This means that borrowers who do not have assets to offer as collateral may not be eligible for secured loans, but they may be able to obtain unsecured loans.

The business Loan Approval process

The approval process for secured loans may be more involved than for unsecured loans, as the lender will need to assess the value of the collateral offered by the borrower.

In contrast, the approval process for unsecured loans may be simpler, as the lender will only need to assess the borrower’s creditworthiness and ability to repay the loan.

Both secured and unsecured loans can be useful sources of financing for individuals and businesses, but the type of loan that is right for you will depend on your specific circumstances and needs.

It is important to carefully consider your options and choose a loan that is appropriate for your situation.

What is the difference between a secured loan and an unsecured loan?

As mentioned above an unsecured loan is a loan that does not require security.

A secured loan on the other hand requires security to be put up as collateral against the value of the loan.

This may be property, inventory or accounts receivables.

It can also be other assets that the business or director owns that can be used as security.

The purpose of this security is simple.

To allow the lender to recover the funds that have been lent to the borrower.

If a business (borrower) dishonours the loan then they are penalised with additional payments (Fees)

If however, the business was to default on the loan then the security can be repossessed and sold to allow the lender to recoup the cost of the loan value.

So in summary.

Smaller unsecured loans do not require security.

And

The larger loan’s in the range of $150,000 AUD plus do often require security if the cash flow of the business borrowing the money is not strong.

Are Unsecured Loans Good Business?

Unsecured loans can be a good business for both borrowers and lenders.

For borrowers, unsecured loans can provide access to necessary funding without the need to put up collateral, which can be particularly useful for businesses that do not have valuable assets to offer as collateral.

Additionally, unsecured loans may be easier to obtain and have more flexible repayment terms than secured loans.

For lenders, unsecured loans can be a good business because they provide an opportunity to earn interest on the loaned funds and generate a return on their investment.

However, unsecured loans are riskier for lenders because there is no collateral to seize if the borrower defaults on the loan.

To compensate for this added risk, lenders may charge higher interest rates on unsecured loans than on secured loans.

Overall, unsecured loans can be a good business for both borrowers and lenders, as they provide a way for businesses to access necessary funding and for lenders to earn a return on their investment. However, it is important for both parties to carefully consider the terms and risks of unsecured loans before entering into an agreement.

Unsecured loans can be a good option for people who need quick access to money.

Types of businesses that may utilise unsecured loans are businesses such as:

Unsecured business loans are generally more expensive than secured business loans.

They have higher interest rates and lower total loan values because they are not secure they are riskier to the lender.

They are however fast to obtain as they are based on a quick review of minimal financial documents such as bank statements.

Instead, the “Lender” will require a personal guarantee on your behalf if anything goes wrong with the transaction or payment plan agreement terms (which they usually state in the loan contract).

Benefits of Unsecured Business Loans

Unsecured Business Loans Don’t Require Collateral

As mentioned above an unsecured loan will not require you to put anything up as collateral such as property or other business assets.

The reason for this is the rates are higher and the loan terms are generally more flexible.

This allows a business with good cash flow and solid profitability to borrow money without having to put up security.

It is an in-good faith loan that is based on a business’s good performance to date.

This Can Make Qualifying For A Business Loan Easier

When you are not required to provide large securitisation for a loan it is a faster loan process.

It is also simpler for the lender to lend money as it is based on cash flow.

Faster Loan Approvals When The Funding Is Unsecured

When security is not required to underwrite the loan the team reviewing the application can move faster.

Internal credit teams will assess a loan application’s creditworthiness and find a suitable loan product to match the customer’s (borrower’s) needs.

This makes it faster to access the funds as there is less paperwork and review required by credit teams.

Works For Bad Credit Scores

Your historical credit score can count for or against you in many lending situations.

With an unsecured loan it is more important as it can make or break the credit team’s decision to loan funds.

At the very least the assessment may incur a slightly higher interest rate depending on your credit score.

As the credit check is based on a point-in-time assessment it means that your credit score at the time of application is used.

This means if you are recovering from a poor credit history you may not be negatively affected by the loan application process.

How to apply for an unsecured business loan

Compare Business Loan Products

When looking at business loan products it’s a good idea to shop around. The reason for this is every lender will look at a business loan through a slightly different set of lending criteria.

In the same way, a home loan comparison helps you find the right home loan a business loan review will help you find an interest rate that is affordable.

It will also allow you to find a set of loan features that will work for your business.

These could be unsecured business loan features such as:

  • Redraw options
  • Repayment frequencies
  • Establishment Fees
  • Break Free Costs
  • Mobile App Features

Review The Interest Rates

Keep in mind that the less security involved the higher the interest rate will be for that loan.

Make sure you know what credit tier you are in as each band of credit serviceability will have a different interest rate associated with it.

To qualify for an unsecured business loan, you typically need to have good to excellent credit.

Lenders will also look at your credit history and your ability to repay the loan.

What Are The Terms Of An Unsecured Business Loan?

The terms of an unsecured business loan will vary depending on the lender, but the loan typically has a fixed interest rate and a fixed monthly payment.

The terms of an unsecured business loan can vary depending on the lender and the specific loan. In general, unsecured business loans may have the following terms:

Loan amount: The total amount of money that the borrower can receive from the loan.

Interest rate: The annual percentage rate (APR) that the borrower will be charged for the loan.

Repayment schedule: The schedule for repaying the loan, including the number of payments and the amount of each payment.

Fees: Any fees that the borrower will be required to pay, such as origination fees, closing costs, or late payment fees.

Prepayment penalties: Any penalties that the borrower may incur if they pay off the loan early.

It is important for borrowers to carefully review the terms of an unsecured business loan before agreeing to borrow the money.

This will help ensure that they understand their obligations and can make informed decisions about whether the loan is the right option for their business.

Why Use Cockatoo for Your Unsecured Business Loan?

  • The fast and simple application process
  • Best interest rates in the market
  • Flexible loan terms with multiple lenders
  • No collateral required
  • No early repayment fees
  • Bad credit accepted
  • Get funding in as little as 24 hours
  • Australian-owned and operated

How do I apply for an unsecured business loan?

To apply for an unsecured business loan, you will need to gather some financial and personal information.

You will typically need to provide the lender with information about your business, such as your annual revenue, number of employees, and credit history.

You may also need to provide personal information, such as your Social Security number and proof of income.

Once you have gathered all of the necessary information, you can apply for an unsecured business loan by contacting a lender directly or through an online lending platform.

The lender will review your application and, if approved, will provide you with loan terms and conditions. You will need to review and agree to these terms before the loan is disbursed.

If you are having difficulty finding a lender or are unsure about how to apply for an unsecured business loan, you may want to consider working with a business financial advisor or consultant.

They can help you identify potential lenders and guide you through the application process.

What Documents Do I Need When Apply For An Unsecured Business Loan?

To apply for an unsecured business loan, you will typically need to provide the lender with the following information and documents:

Basic business information, such as your business name, contact information, and the type of business you operate.

Financial information, such as your annual revenue, profit and loss statement, and balance sheet
Personal information, such as your driver’s license, proof of income, and credit history
A business plan that outlines your company’s goals and financial projections

These general requirements, some lenders may also ask for additional information and documents. It is important to carefully review the lender’s requirements and gather all of the necessary information before applying for an unsecured business loan.

If you are unsure about what documents to provide, you can contact the lender directly or consult with a business financial advisor.

Do I Need A Credit File Check To Get An Unsecured Business Loan?

It is common for lenders to check the credit history of potential borrowers before approving a loan, including unsecured business loans.

A credit file check helps the lender assess the creditworthiness of the borrower and their ability to repay the loan.

This information can also be used to determine the interest rate that the borrower will be charged on the loan.

However, it is possible to obtain an unsecured business loan without a credit check in some cases.

For example, some lenders may offer no-credit-check loans to businesses that can provide alternative forms of collateral, such as equipment or inventory, to secure the loan.

Some lenders may also be willing to consider other factors, such as the length of time a business has been in operation and its cash flow, in addition to credit history when deciding whether to approve a loan.

It is important to note that no-credit-check loans may come with higher interest rates and fees, as the lender is taking on more risk by lending to a borrower with a potentially weaker credit history.

It is also important to carefully review the terms and conditions of any loan before committing to it, to ensure that it is a financially viable and responsible choice for your business.

All customers can start the application stress-free knowing that a credit file check is not called until absolutely necessary.

How Long Does It Take To Get Approved For An Unsecured Business Loan?

The amount of time it takes to get approved for an unsecured business loan can vary depending on the lender and the specific loan.

In general, however, the approval process for unsecured business loans is typically faster than the approval process for secured business loans.

Some lenders may be able to provide a decision on your loan application within a few hours or days, while others may take longer to review your application and make a decision.

It is important to discuss the timeline for the approval process with your lender before applying for the loan.

Once I am approved for unsecured business how long does it take to get the funding?
The amount of time it takes to receive the funding after being approved for an unsecured business loan can vary depending on the lender and the specific loan.

In general, however, borrowers can expect to receive the funds within a few days to a week after being approved for the loan. Some lenders may be able to provide the funds even more quickly, while others may take longer to process the loan and transfer the funds to the borrower.

It is important for borrowers to discuss the timeline for receiving the funds with their lender before agreeing to the loan.

How Much Funding Can I Get For An Unsecured Business Loan?

The amount of funding that you can receive from an unsecured business loan can vary depending on the lender and the specific loan.

In general, however, unsecured business loans are typically smaller than secured business loans, with some lenders offering loans of up to $500,000 or more.

The exact amount that you can borrow will depend on factors such as your credit score, the financial health of your business, and your ability to repay the loan.

It is important to discuss your funding needs with your lender and carefully evaluate the loan terms before agreeing to borrow the money.

Lenders That Offer Unsecured Loans

LenderRate
Lumi19.95%
Prospa19.95%
BizCap19.95%
OnDeck19.95%
Shift19.95%
Sample Lenders

Scenario Example: Why Unsecured Business Loans Matter

Imagine you own a small but thriving café in Sydney.

Business has been booming, and you’ve been considering expanding your menu and upgrading your kitchen equipment to meet the growing demand.

However, you don’t want to use your personal assets as collateral for a loan, and you need the funds quickly.

An unsecured business loan could be the ideal solution.

With its fast approval time and no collateral requirement, you can access the funds you need to grow your business without putting your personal assets at risk.

So, are you ready to take your business to the next level?

Let’s chat about how unsecured business loans can help you make the business magic happen!

Frequently Asked Questions About Unsecured Business Loans

What is an unsecured business loan?

An unsecured business loan is a type of loan that a borrower can obtain without putting up collateral, such as real estate or equipment, as security for the loan.

What are the requirements for getting an unsecured business loan?

Requirements for an unsecured business loan may vary depending on the lender, but generally, a borrower will need to have a good credit score, a solid business plan, and be able to demonstrate the ability to repay the loan.

What are the advantages of an unsecured business loan?

An unsecured business loan allows a borrower to obtain financing without putting up collateral. Additionally, these loans can be easier to qualify for and can be used for a variety of purposes.

What are the disadvantages of an unsecured business loan?

Interest rates on unsecured business loans are often higher than rates on secured loans. Additionally, approval for an unsecured loan may be more difficult and the loan amount may be lower than a secured loan.

How long does it take to get an unsecured business loan?

The time it takes to get an unsecured business loan can vary depending on the lender and the borrower’s qualifications. Some lenders may be able to approve and disburse a loan within a few days, while others may take several weeks.

How do I know if an unsecured business loan is right for me?

An unsecured business loan may be a good option if you do not want to put up collateral or if you do not have collateral to put up. It is always good to weigh all of your options and consider the pros and cons before making a decision.

How do I find the best-unsecured business loan for me?

Researching and comparing different lenders and loan products is key to finding the best unsecured business loan for you. Look for loans with favourable interest rates, fees, and terms and conditions that match your business needs.

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