This guide walks through the realities of business funding for operating businesses — eligibility, documentation, decision timelines, and what to expect from start to finish.
The basics you need to know
Business funding from alternative lenders is structured differently than traditional bank loans. Decisions happen in hours, not weeks. Documentation is minimal — three months of business bank statements rather than full financials. Approval is based on cash flow patterns, not just credit score. Funding hits your account via ACH within 24 hours of accepted offer.
What you need to qualify
US-based operating business with EIN. 6+ months in business. $10,000+ monthly revenue (some products require more). FICO 500+ accepted (alternative lenders work with credit-impaired borrowers). Three months of business bank statements. That's the baseline.
Documentation required
Business bank statements (last 3 months). Owner ID. Basic business details (entity type, state of formation, time in business, industry). No tax returns, no business plan, no P&L, no financial projections. The bank statements tell the story underwriting needs.
Decision timeline
Most applications get a same-day decision when submitted before noon Pacific. After 3 PM, expect next-business-day decision. Decision means a written offer with all terms disclosed: amount, repayment, total cost, term length, payment schedule. No surprises at signing.
Funding timeline
After accepted offer, electronic signature, then ACH to your business bank account. Typical timing: amounts under $50K fund same-day or next-business-day. Amounts $50K-$500K fund within 4-24 hours. Amounts over $500K typically 2-3 business days. Apply by 10 AM Pacific to maximize same-day funding chances.