The complete guide to business lines of credit

Every business faces financial ups and downs. One day you’re comfortably paying bills, the next you’re eyeing an opportunity that requires a quick payment.

For many company owners, a business line of credit is the ace up their sleeve. It’s a flexible funding option that’s there when you need it, invisible when you don’t. Let’s take a look at how a line of credit could fit into your business strategy.

What is a business line of credit?

A business line of credit is a flexible way to borrow money. It lets you access funds up to a set limit. A line of credit is different from a traditional loan. With a loan, you get a lump sum. But with a line of credit, you can take out money as you need it. In most cases, you only pay interest on the amount you use, although some don’t even have interest (more on that in a bit). 

Think of it like a credit card for your business, but typically with lower interest rates and higher borrowing limits. You can use the funds for many purposes. They can help cover short-term cash flow gaps. You can also use them to buy inventory or pay for unexpected expenses.

Are business lines of credit good for small businesses?

Small businesses often face cash flow challenges. A line of credit can be helpful, giving you quick access to funds when you need them. Whether it’s covering a slow season, taking advantage of a bulk discount or fixing unexpected equipment issues, a small business line of credit offers more flexibility than other lending options. 

You only pay for what you use, making it less risky than a large loan. Just remember to use it wisely. 

How does a business line of credit work?

When a lender approves you for a line of credit, they will assign you a maximum credit limit. You can then draw funds from this line as needed, up to that limit. When you repay the borrowed amount, you replenish your available credit, which allows you to borrow again without reapplying.

For example, if you have a £50,000 line of credit and withdraw £20,000, you’ll still have £30,000 available to use. Once you repay some or all of the £20,000, that amount becomes available again.

Benefits of a business line of credit

There are plenty of benefits when it comes to a business credit card. Let’s look at some of the reasons why it might be suitable for your business.

Flexibility

Need funds for different business purposes? A line of credit lets you use money as needed. You’ll only pay interest on what you actually use, making it a cost-effective option. It’s perfect for businesses with changing financial needs, giving you more control over your spending and repayments.

Quick access to funds

Waiting for loan approval can mean missing out on opportunities. With a line of credit, once you’re approved, you can tap into funds quickly. This speed is crucial when facing unexpected expenses or time-sensitive deals. No more lost chances due to slow financing.

Revolving credit

Forget about reapplying every time you need money. As you repay your line of credit, your available funds bounce back. It’s a financial safety net that’s always ready. This ongoing access to credit can be a real lifesaver during tight spots or growth phases.

Build credit

If you want to boost your business credit score, a responsible use of a line of credit could help. By borrowing and repaying on time, you’re showing lenders you’re reliable. Over time, this could lead to better financing options and terms. It’s an investment in your business’s financial future.

When to use a business line of credit

A line of credit can act as a versatile financial solution for businesses facing a variety challenges. When cash is tight between customer payments and bills coming due, it can help smooth out those rough patches. For seasonal businesses, it’s often a lifeline during slow months, keeping operations running and employees paid.

Unexpected costs are part of doing business. Whether it’s a broken piece of equipment or a sudden repair need, having a line of credit means you can handle these surprises without throwing your budget into disarray. But it’s not just for problems – it can also help you seize opportunities. If you spot a great deal on inventory or need to act quickly on a new contract, you’ll have the funds ready to go.

From everyday cash flow management to funding growth, a line of credit gives your business the flexibility to adapt and thrive.

Types of business lines of credit

There’s more than one type of credit line that businesses can tap into. From secured to unsecured, here are the different versions of lines of credit. 

• Secured: These require collateral, often resulting in lower interest rates but putting your assets at risk if you default. 
• Unsecured: No collateral required, but may have higher interest rates or lower credit limits.
• Short-term: Typically have higher interest rates but are easier to qualify for. 
• Long-term: Often have lower interest rates but stricter qualification requirements.

How to qualify

Here’s what you need to know about qualifying for a business line of credit. It’s important to remember that exact criteria will vary depending on the lender. 

• Lenders typically look at several factors when considering your application
• Both business and personal credit scores may be considered. 
• Most lenders prefer businesses with at least six months to two years of operation. 
• Minimum requirements vary by lender. 
• Lenders may review your balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and cash flow statement.

Comparing lines of credit to other financing options

While lines of credit offer flexibility, they’re not always the best choice. Here’s how they compare to other options:

• Term loans are better for large, one-time expenses. They often have lower interest rates but less flexibility. 
• Credit cards are easier to obtain but usually have higher interest rates and lower limits. 
• Invoice financing is useful for B2B businesses with unpaid invoices, but can be more expensive.

FlexiPay from Funding Circle

If you’re looking for a business line of credit, FlexiPay from Funding Circle allows you to to pay business costs upfront, then spread the repayments over 1, 3, 6, 9 or 12 months—the choice is yours.

FlexiPay stands out with its simple fee structure—there’s just one flat fee per transaction, with no interest or hidden costs. You can use it for many business expenses. This includes paying suppliers, covering tax bills, or buying inventory in bulk.

FlexiPay is different from traditional lines of credit. It lets you pay by card or transfer funds directly, just like making a bank transfer. This gives you more options to manage your cash flow. It provides the control and freedom businesses need when making financial decisions.

Tips for using a business line of credit responsibly

Using a business line of credit responsibly is key to making it work for you. First, only borrow what you actually need. It might be tempting to max it out, but remember, you’ll pay for every pound you use. Before you borrow, have a solid plan for repayment.

Keep an eye on your credit utilisation. Using too much of your available credit can ding your credit score. It’s best to use your line of credit for short-term needs, not as a long-term funding solution.

Don’t forget about fees. Some lines of credit come with annual fees or maintenance charges that can add up. By being smart about how you use your line of credit, you’ll keep your business finances healthy and your options open for the future.

Applying for a line of credit

When you’re ready to apply, you’ll need different documents depending on the lender. These may include:

• Business and personal tax returns 
• Bank statements 
• Financial statements 
• Business licenses 
• Legal documents (articles of incorporation, etc.)

Remember each business line of credit lender has different requirements, so check what’s needed before applying.

Is a line of credit right for your business?

A business line of credit can be helpful for managing your company’s finances. It provides the flexibility to handle unexpected expenses, take advantage of opportunities and smooth out cash flow. However, it’s not the right choice for every situation.

Consider your business needs, financial situation and long-term goals. If you value flexibility and only want to pay for what you use, a line of credit—like FlexiPay from Funding Circle—could be an excellent option. 

Whatever you choose, make sure you understand the terms, costs, and your ability to repay. With the right approach, a line of credit can be a valuable asset in your financial toolkit, helping your business manage the challenges and seize opportunities for growth.

28/11/24: While we want to help as much as we can, the information found here is provided solely for informational purposes and should not be considered financial or legal advice. To the extent permitted by law, Funding Circle does not accept any liability for any loss or damage which may arise directly or indirectly from the use of, or reliance on, the information contained here. If you have any questions, please speak to your professional adviser or seek independent legal advice.