Answers & Guidance

FAQ

Everything you need to know about business funding — from qualification and rates to repayment and the application process.

1What types of funding do you offer?

Through our Choice Business Funding Network (CBFN), we offer a full range of solutions including term loans and working capital, equipment financing and leasing, merchant cash advances, accounts receivable factoring, asset-based loans, SBA loans, and revolving lines of credit. We match your business to the best option from our network of vetted funders — no cookie-cutter approach.

2How quickly can I get approved and funded?

Many businesses receive an approval decision within hours, and funding can happen as soon as 24 hours after final approval for qualified applicants. SBA loans and some bank products naturally take longer (2–8 weeks), but our short-term working capital programs are built for speed. We make it a point to move as quickly as possible because we understand the urgency of securing capital.

3What credit score do I need to qualify?

We work with businesses across the credit spectrum. While higher scores open more options, many of our programs are available for credit scores starting at 500. Credit is one input among many — we also weigh business revenue, cash flow, time in business, and overall deal structure. Businesses with less-than-perfect credit are encouraged to apply.

4Do I need collateral to be approved?

It depends on the program. Some options are unsecured and require no personal collateral, while others — like equipment financing or asset-based loans — use the purchased equipment or business assets as collateral. SBA loans may require a personal guarantee for certain products. We guide you to the option that best fits your situation and will clearly explain any collateral requirements before you commit.

5How much funding can my business qualify for?

Funding amounts depend on the program and your business performance. Typical ranges run from $5,000 to $250,000+ for working capital and short-term loans, $10,000 to $500,000+ for equipment financing, and up to $5,000,000+ for SBA loans and asset-based lending. We help you understand what you qualify for after a quick review of your revenue and profile.

6Are there any upfront fees to apply?

There are absolutely zero upfront costs to evaluate your files. If one of our specialized network lenders covers our consulting fee upon successful placement, you pay nothing. If a custom or restructured funding route is selected where the lender does not provide compensation, a standard advisory fee will apply upon funding. We maintain crystal clear pricing, and all fee structures are fully disclosed before any agreements are finalized.

7Will applying affect my credit score?

No. Our initial application uses a soft pull that does not impact your credit score. A hard inquiry only occurs if you choose to proceed with a specific offer. You can review your options with complete peace of mind.

8What can I use the funds for?

Funds can be used for any legitimate business purpose, including working capital, inventory purchases, equipment acquisition, hiring and payroll, expansion or renovation, marketing, covering seasonal gaps, or managing unexpected expenses. Funds may not be used for personal expenses.

9What documentation and collateral are required to secure financing through the CBFN?

To match you with the right network lane, your application must include full owner information for any individual holding a 20% or greater stake in the company.

• Working Capital Loans: 4 months of consecutive business bank statements.

• Equipment Financing: Information regarding the target purchase type and estimated price. Note: Your approval is highly flexible. You are approved for a specific capital capacity, meaning you can pivot to a similar product or adjust the asset selection at checkout without losing your financing structure.

• Asset-Backed & Real Estate Solutions: A clear inventory of available corporate or personal collateral. For all structured asset loans exceeding $75,000, a current property/equipment appraisal and complete corporate financial statements are required to finalize terms.

10What are my repayment options?

Repayment structures vary by program. Options include monthly payments (term loans, SBA, equipment), weekly or daily ACH payments (short-term working capital), or a percentage of daily credit card sales (merchant cash advance). Lines of credit offer flexible repayment — you only pay on what you use. We explain every repayment detail in plain language before you sign.

11I already have funding with another provider. Can you help?

Yes. If you have an existing advance or loan and need additional capital, or if you want to see if you qualify for better terms, we can review your current arrangement. Many businesses benefit from refinancing or stacking additional funding, and we'll give you an honest assessment of whether it makes sense for you.

12How do I get started or talk to someone?

You can start by filling out our short online application, or call us at 513-334-6496 to speak with one of our Business Funding Consultants. We're available Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EST. You can also email us at financing@fundsbychoice.com. There's no obligation and no pressure — just honest, expert guidance.

Have more questions? Don't hesitate to contact us or call us at 513-334-6496.

Glossary

Business Funding Terms

Understanding the terminology used in business funding helps you make informed decisions and compare options with confidence.

Term Loan

A lump-sum loan repaid over a set period (typically 6–24 months) with fixed payments. Interest rates and terms vary based on the lender, your credit profile, and business revenue.

Working Capital

Short-term funding used to cover day-to-day business operations like payroll, inventory, and rent. Designed to bridge cash flow gaps rather than fund long-term investments.

Line of Credit

A revolving credit facility that lets you draw funds as needed, up to a set limit. As you repay, the credit becomes available again. You only pay interest on the amount you actually use.

Equipment Financing

A loan or lease used specifically to purchase business equipment. The equipment itself typically serves as collateral, which can make approval easier than an unsecured loan.

Merchant Cash Advance (MCA)

An advance on your future sales. Repayment is made through a fixed daily ACH payment or a percentage of your daily credit card receipts. MCAs do not charge interest — instead, they use a factor rate to determine total cost.

Factor Rate

A decimal-based multiplier used by MCA providers to calculate total repayment. For example, a factor rate of 1.25 on a $10,000 advance means you repay $12,500. This differs from an APR because it does not compound over time.

Factoring

A financing method where a business sells its outstanding invoices to a factoring company at a discount in exchange for immediate cash. The factor then collects payment directly from your customers.

Asset-Based Loan

A loan secured by business assets such as inventory, equipment, real estate, or accounts receivable. The loan amount is typically a percentage of the asset's appraised value.

SBA Loan

A government-guaranteed loan partially backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration. SBA loans generally offer longer terms and lower rates than conventional financing, but require more documentation and take longer to close.

Soft Credit Pull

A credit check that does not affect your credit score. Choice uses soft pulls during the initial application so you can review offers without any impact to your credit.