A decline isn't the end. Here's your action plan:
Step 1: Find Out Why Lenders must tell you why. Common reasons:
- ●Insufficient time in business
- ●Revenue too low
- ●Credit issues
- ●Recent overdrafts/NSFs
- ●Industry concerns
- ●Too much existing debt
Step 2: Don't Panic Apply Resist the urge to apply everywhere else immediately.
- ●Creates multiple hard inquiries
- ●Looks desperate to lenders
- ●May result in more declines
Step 3: Address the Issue
If Time in Business: Wait until you meet minimum (usually 6-12 months)
If Revenue:
- ●Wait for stronger months
- ●Try product with lower revenue requirement
- ●Consider MCA (lowest revenue minimums)
If Credit:
- ●Work on credit improvement
- ●Try revenue-based products (MCA, invoice financing)
- ●Offer collateral
If Bank Statement Issues:
- ●Clean up statements for 60-90 days
- ●Reapply with cleaner history
If Industry:
- ●Find lender specializing in your industry
- ●Some industries are restricted (check first)
Step 4: Try Alternative Products
| If Declined For | Try Instead |
|---|---|
| Term loan | MCA or working capital |
| Line of credit | Revenue-based financing |
| SBA loan | Alternative term loan |
| Unsecured | Equipment financing (collateral) |
Step 5: Build and Return
- ●Take smaller amount if available
- ●Build payment history
- ●Reapply in 6-12 months with track record