Business loans

Business Loan Documents Checklist

Prepare common business loan documents, including financial statements, bank records, tax returns, and ownership information.

Organized records can make a business loan application easier to complete and help a provider understand the company. Exact requirements vary by lender and financing type, but several documents are commonly requested.

Business and ownership information

  • Legal business name, address, and formation documents
  • Employer identification number and industry details
  • Ownership percentages and owner identification
  • Business licenses when applicable

Financial records

Providers may ask for recent business bank statements, profit-and-loss statements, balance sheets, accounts receivable information, and business tax returns. Keep reporting periods consistent so the numbers are easier to compare.

Loan purpose and repayment plan

Be ready to explain how much funding you need, how it will be used, and how the business expects to repay it. Equipment quotes, purchase agreements, or a short cash-flow forecast may support the request.

Some products also require a personal guarantee or owner credit review. Read every disclosure carefully and compare the total repayment structure. Our small business loans guide explains common financing types and comparison questions.