The core requirements
- Revenue: many alternative programs start around $10K-$15K monthly deposits, with stronger options above $25K.
- Time in business: 6-12 months may qualify for some revenue-based programs; banks often want 2+ years.
- Credit: banks and SBA loans often want stronger credit; alternative lenders may consider mid-600 and lower profiles when revenue supports the request.
- Bank statements: lenders review deposits, balances, negative days, and existing payments.
- Documents: ID, bank statements, voided check, and sometimes tax returns or P&L statements.
Requirements by product
Revenue based financing is usually the most flexible because it focuses on deposits and sales. Working capital is similar but may have more structure. Business term loans typically require stronger credit and more documentation. SBA loans require the deepest documentation and the longest timeline.
Fastest way to improve approval odds
keep the business bank account clean for 60 days, avoid overdrafts, and gather full PDF bank statements before applying.
What hurts a file
- Frequent negative balances or returned payments
- Undisclosed advances or loan payments
- Revenue that is declining month over month
- Documents with mismatched business names
- Requested amount far above monthly revenue
For a deeper look at statement review, read how lenders read your bank statements. For paperwork, use the document checklist.
See what you may qualify for
One 60-second form helps match your revenue, credit, and timeline to available funding paths.