Starting a new business is the ultimate leap of faith for entrepreneurs. It’s the time when an idea becomes real, and a major part of that reality is finance. The most innovative projects in the world won’t succeed without funding, and a business line of credit for startups can help you with that.
Use this guide to learn about the different types of lines of credit, and compare small business lines of credit to traditional business loans and business credit cards.
What you need to know
- A business line of credit provides flexible, revolving access to funds up to a predetermined limit—perfect for managing unpredictable startup expenses.
- As a startup choosing a business line of credit, you’ll have the option between secured or unsecured, SBA-backed, and invoice-based, each with distinct pros and cons based on your business needs.
- While requirements vary, most lenders consider personal credit scores, business revenue, and time in operation when evaluating applications from startups.
What is a business line of credit?
Business credit lines are a form of flexible debt financing that allow you ongoing access to working capital as you need it. Unlike a traditional business term loan, you don’t have to receive the full amount of a line of credit in one lump sum. Instead, you can draw on your available funds in smaller increments and only pay interest on the amount you drew.
Key characteristics of business lines of credit include:
- Revolving credit: Borrowed funds become available again after you repay them, unlike a lump-sum loan.
- Interest on drawn amount: You only pay interest on the money you use.
- Flexibility: You can continue to borrow the funds you need, when you need them, without applying for another loan.
- Quick access: Once your draw is approved, funds are typically available within hours or days.
Most lines of credit are unsecured, meaning you won’t have to post collateral. For startups, secured lines of credit do exist, and generally require a cash deposit. The application and approval process for secured or unsecured business credit lines are similar to those used for traditional term loans, requiring similar documentation and a business credit check.
Some business lines of credit, like the Bluevine Line of Credit, allow you to apply with no impact to your credit score.BVSUP-00008
Why startups should consider a business line of credit
Business lines of credit come with a lot of benefits, particularly for startups looking to build business credit. Some of those benefits include:
- Flexibility and control: You can save on interest by drawing money only when you need it, or when unexpected expenses arise, then repay only what you drew.
- Improved cash flow management: Irregular income patterns can create financial unmanageability. This is particularly painful during the startup phase. A business line of credit can help new businesses stabilize cash flow.
- Strategic capitalization: It’s tough to see an opportunity and not be able to act on it for financial reasons. Getting a business line of credit can ensure you’ll have the funds for a new venture when the chance arises.
- Supplemental emergency fund: Many small businesses view their line of credit as an extra emergency fund. You shouldn’t replace your emergency savings with a line of credit, but the latter can reliably provide additional financial security.
- Enhanced business credit building: Building business credit should be a priority for all new businesses. Opening a business line of credit can help with that, provided you manage it properly and make interest payments when due.
- Cost-effective financing: Taking out a business loan puts your company in debt for the full amount you’re approved for. Lines of credit allow you to draw only what you need, making this a more cost-effective option than regular borrowing.
- Streamlined access: Once approved, accessing funds from a business line of credit is easier and faster than applying for successive term loans, while providing immediate liquidity.
Did you know?
You can apply for a Bluevine Line of Credit without impacting your credit score—and get a decision in as little as five minutes.
How business lines of credit work for startups
When researching business lines of credit, you may encounter a product specifically labelled as a “startup business line of credit.” These aren’t custom services designed for startups, but a marketing name used to target newer businesses. Once approved, your startup line of credit will function just like any business line of credit issued to larger companies.
The mechanics of how business lines of credit work are fairly straightforward, but they may be unfamiliar to someone who hasn’t been in business very long. Here are the four basic phases in the life of a business line of credit.
- Approval: Startup entrepreneurs and new small business owners may need a strong personal credit score to get approved for their first business line of credit. Lenders also want to see consistent cash flow and a path to profitability in your business plan.
- Drawing funds: Once approved, startups can typically draw funds quickly and easily within a few hours or days. Online transfers to your business checking account are the most common way to do this.
- Repayment: You may have the option of weekly or monthly payments. Each will be a percentage of the principal plus interest. This structure helps maintain consistent cash flow and builds a positive repayment history.
- Re-accessing funds: Business credit lines replenish as you make payments, and you can re-access the funds later when needed. This revolving nature provides a critical financial safety net and flexibility for unpredictable startup expenses.
Types of business lines of credit for startups
The rates and terms of different lines of credit differ based on their type. Entrepreneurs should review all of the following terms to decide which startup financing options are right for them:
Unsecured business line of credit
An unsecured business line of credit doesn’t require collateral, so the approval standards are different from what you’d see if you borrowed against your assets. Unsecured lines of credit for startups are approved based on business performance and the founder’s personal credit history.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No collateral required, reducing personal risk | Higher interest rates due to increased lender risk |
| Faster approval process without asset valuation | Stricter credit score requirements |
| Maintains business asset flexibility | Typically lower credit limits for new businesses |
| Simpler application requirements | May require personal guarantees from founders |
Secured business line of credit
A secured business line of credit requires collateral. You can use equipment, inventory, real estate, a cash deposit, or other business assets to guarantee repayment. This reduces the lender’s risk and may help you secure better rates and terms.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower interest rates compared to unsecured options | Risk of losing collateral if unable to repay |
| Higher credit limits available | Lengthy approval process, including asset appraisal |
| Easier qualification with valuable collateral | Reduced flexibility in asset management |
| Longer repayment terms are possible | May limit future financing options using the same collateral |
Invoice factoring (asset-based line of credit)
Invoice factoring is a form of secured borrowing that uses your outstanding invoices or accounts receivable as collateral. Businesses with regular credit card transactions often use a form of factoring to overcome slow cash flow.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick access to cash tied up in outstanding invoices | Higher costs compared to traditional financing |
| Credit decisions based on customer creditworthiness, not just business credit | Customer notification may be required |
| Improves cash flow predictability | Not suitable for businesses with cash-only sales |
| Can grow with business sales volume | Potential impact on customer relationships |
SBA lines of credit
The federal government can partially guarantee a startup line of credit via the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 7(a) loan program. The SBA requires participating lenders to offer more favorable terms and conditions to small business owners and startups.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower interest rates due to government backing | Extensive paperwork and documentation are required |
| Longer repayment terms available | Longer approval process |
| Less stringent qualification requirements | Strict usage restrictions and monitoring |
| Builds a relationship with the SBA for future financing | Personal guarantees are typically required |
Revolving business line of credit
A revolving line of credit allows continuous borrowing and repaying up to the credit limit, with repaid amounts immediately becoming available for re-borrowing. This is a good business line of credit for startups because it offers a fast and flexible opportunity to build business credit.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Maximum flexibility for varying cash flow needs | Temptation to over-borrow due to easy access |
| Pay interest only on the outstanding balance | Variable interest rates may increase costs |
| No need to reapply for additional funds | Requires disciplined financial management |
| Helps establish ongoing banking relationships | Credit limits may be reviewed and adjusted periodically |
Convertible line of credit
A convertible line of credit can be converted from a revolving line to a term loan under specific conditions, offering initial flexibility with the option for fixed payments later. This can be useful for growing businesses that want to control budgeting and cash flow.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Initial flexibility with option for payment stability | Complex terms and conversion conditions |
| Can lock in favorable rates if market conditions change | Potential for rate increases if not converted |
| Provides time to evaluate long-term financing needs | Limited availability from specialized lenders |
| May offer lower rates upon conversion | May have restrictions on conversion timing |
Business lines of credit vs. business credit cards vs. business loans
Each of these options serves a different purpose and offers distinct advantages. Lines of credit are great for ongoing control of cash flow. Startup business loans are typically taken out for larger purchases. Credit cards are for day-to-day expenses. Use the chart below to compare some key elements of each.
| Business line of credit | Business credit card | Business loan | |
| Purpose | Flexible working capital, short-term needs, emergencies | Small, recurring expenses, rewards, and building credit | Large, one-time investments, specific projects |
| Repayment | Revolving, pay interest on drawn amount, principal replenishes credit | Revolving, minimum monthly payments, high APR if not paid in full | Fixed monthly payments (principal + interest) |
| Interest rate | Variable, generally lower than credit cards | High APR if balance is carried, grace period | Fixed or variable, generally lower than credit lines or cards |
| Accessibility | Requires application, approval process, can be quick | Relatively easy to get for new businesses | More rigorous application, longer approval time |
| Best for | Managing cash flow, unexpected needs, and seizing quick opportunities | Small operational expenses, travel, and building credit history | More rigorous application, longer approval time |
What to consider before applying for a startup line of credit
Now that you know what a business line of credit is and how it compares to other funding options, it’s time to get a business line of credit. Here are several things to consider as you go through this process.
Eligibility
Every lender has unique criteria to determine whether a business is eligible for a line of credit. The following variables are assessed by most lenders:
- Time in business: Traditional banks typically prefer lending to companies that have been in business for at least two years. Alternative lenders may cater to younger startups.
- Revenue requirements: Your monthly revenue will help determine the funding limit the lender is willing to approve for your startup.
- Personal credit score: Since startups often don’t have a business credit history, lenders rely on the owner’s personal credit score to assess your creditworthiness.
- Business credit score: As soon as you incorporate, register with the major credit bureaus—Dun & Bradstreet, Equifax, and Experian—so they can begin tracking your finances and calculate a business credit score.
- Industry: Certain industries—such as gambling, drug paraphernalia, firearm manufacturers, and others—have fewer lending options than others. If you work in a restricted industry, you may have to provide additional documentation.
Required documents
Preparing your documentation ahead of time will accelerate the application process for a business line of credit. Make sure you have the following documents digitally available:
- Business bank statements demonstrating cash flow for the last 3–12 months.
- Business tax returns, if you’ve filed. (This may not be required for very new businesses.)
- Profit & Loss statements and balance sheets showing your current financial position.
- Personal financial statements from all owners or guarantors.
- Business legal documents outlining structure, ownership, and legal permissions. These include Articles of Incorporation, operating agreements, and business licenses.
- Business plan outlining growth strategy and fund usage. These are generally required for startups.
Interest rates and fees
Cost is a major factor with any type of business debt, so compare interest rates and fees when choosing a business line of credit. Here’s some terminology you should familiarize yourself with:
- Annual Percentage Rate (APR): The APR includes all associated costs for the line of credit, including interest and fees in a year.
- Draw fees: There’s often a fee for drawing funds from your line of credit, though not all lenders require one.
- Maintenance fees: Lenders may charge monthly or annual maintenance fees to keep your credit line open.
- Inactivity fees: Some lenders will charge a penalty if you underuse the line of credit they approved you for.
- Origination fees: Your lender may charge a fee just to submit an application.
Repayment terms
Before you sign a line of credit agreement, clarify the following details so you’re clear about how and when you’ll be responsible for repaying your draws:
- Draw period vs. repayment period: A typical business line of credit comes with a draw period of 6–24 months, during which you can borrow up to your credit limit as needed. Once this period ends, you enter a repayment period, during which you can’t draw funds and must pay back your outstanding balance.
- Frequency of payments: Lenders may offer a choice between weekly, biweekly, or monthly schedules based on your startup needs. Of the options available to you, choose the one that best aligns with your cash flow.
- Minimum payment requirements: During the draw period, your lender may ask for interest-only payments, whereas during the repayment period you’ll be responsible for repaying what you drew plus interest.
Lender reputation and support
Choosing a lender you trust is just as important as negotiating good rates and terms. Look for lenders that offer transparent terms, good customer service, and a history of helping small business owners. Compare plans and read customer reviews to see if lenders meet these criteria.
Common challenges for startups using a business line of credit
Part of choosing and learning how to use a line of credit is understanding the potential challenges you could face. Here are some of the common obstacles startups can face:
- High interest rates: Newer businesses may face higher interest rates than more established businesses. This is partly due to not having an established business credit history, which makes startups higher risk to lenders.
- Strict eligibility requirements: Your startup’s lack of business credit can limit your options when trying to find a lender.
- Over-reliance risk: Lenders know from experience that many startups overuse their available funds, so you’ll have to provide a financial and business plan to make the case that your business will be profitable and keep its credit utilization ratio low.
- Managing repayment discipline: A single missed payment can create additional fees, a rate increase, and potentially reduce your available credit. Automate your payments to avoid this outcome.
- Limited initial credit limits: Lenders sometimes limit their risk by giving borrowers conservative credit limits. This means a line of credit may not meet all your financing needs. Supplement with a term loan or business credit card if necessary.
Fuel your startup with a line of credit from Bluevine
Running a new business can be financially challenging. By applying for a Bluevine Line of Credit, your startup can get instant access to approved funds on credit lines up to $250,000,BVSUP-00127 allowing you to seize opportunities, weather challenges, and scale sustainably.
Apply for a business line of credit with no impact to your credit score.
Business line of credit for startups FAQs
How quickly can a startup get approved for a business line of credit?
Approval times vary by lender. Online lenders can usually do it in 24–48 hours, whereas traditional banks could take several business days or a week. You can expedite this process by having all your documentation ready, including cash flow and revenue statements. Having a strong personal credit score will improve your chances of success.
What’s the easiest line of credit to get for startups?
Unsecured business lines of credit from online lenders are typically the easiest to get approved for. Alternative online lenders may use approval criteria that focuses on cash flow and business performance, making them a good fit for startups that have been operating for six months or more.
Can a brand-new startup with no revenue get a business line of credit?
Most startups will struggle to get a line of credit during their first months in business, but some lenders may approve a business line of credit based on the owner’s personal credit score and limited business financial history. Your chances may be higher applying for a secured line of credit.
How does using a business line of credit impact my business credit score?
The major business credit bureaus (Dun & Bradstreet, Equifax, and Experian) track your debt repayments on lines of credit, term loans, credit cards, and vendor tradelines. By making timely repayments on your business line of credit, you can improve your business credit score, whereas missing repayments will decrease your score.
