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Your Guide to Peer-to-Peer Business Lending

Top Options for Peer-to-Peer Business Lending
Lantern
LanternUpdated July 20, 2021
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Editor’s note: Lantern by SoFi seeks to provide content that is objective, independent and accurate. Writers are separate from our business operation and do not receive direct compensation from advertisers or partners. Read more about our Editorial Guidelines and How We Make Money.
If you are a small business owner in need of support, there are resources available to help you through this difficult time. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides COVID-19 financing options and resources to help small business owners like you successfully navigate these challenging times.As a small business owner, securing capital is an important part of managing day-to-day expenses and helping your business grow. But finding the right financing can be challenging, especially as a startup or young business.If you’re looking for short- or long-term business loans beyond traditional banks or credit unions, peer-to-peer business lending is a great option to consider. P2P business lending eliminates the bank as a middleman, making it easier for borrowers and lenders to connect via online platforms. For many borrowers, this is a viable form of financing that can offer faster approval and financing at desirable interest rates, even for borrowers with less than perfect credit. For investors, it can be an opportunity to support businesses they believe in.Before you choose a lender, check out the guide below to learn about typical P2P rates and terms, types of peer-to-peer business loans, and how to apply.

How Does P2P Business Lending Work?

Peer-to-peer business lending is an alternative form of financing that allows borrowers to directly connect with investors via online platforms. P2P lending platforms are not the lenders as a bank or credit union would be. This can be helpful for borrowers who may not qualify for a bank loan, those who desire a faster loan turnaround, or those looking for competitive interest rates.  Peer-to-peer lending for businesses follows this basic process:
  1. A borrower’s credit is assessed with a soft or hard credit pull via the P2P lending platform to begin the process of establishing eligibility. These platforms have different qualifications regarding credit ratings, with some more strict than others. 
  2. Based on their credit history and score (among other factors), applicants will be assigned a “loan grade” to help lenders and investors choose the applicant that presents the least amount of risk. The loan grade will typically dictate what interest rates and loan terms you receive. 
  3. Borrowers make a listing for their loan, complete with what the loan will be used for, why they’re a smart investment, and other introductory information that helps lenders and investors make a decision. 
  4. Lenders then have the opportunity to bid on listings, including the amount they can lend and interest rates offered. 
  5. When the business’ listing ends, all qualified bids from lenders combine to form a single loan, which is then deposited directly into the borrower’s account for immediate use. 
The P2P lending platforms typically make money by charging fees to investors in addition to some fees charged to borrowers, like origination or closing fees. When comparing a bank loan to a P2P loan, it’s important for borrowers to consider these fees and interest rates to ensure they’re receiving the right loan for their needs. 

Typical P2P Rates, Terms, and Amounts

Rates, terms, and loan amounts for peer-to-peer business loans can vary greatly depending on the applicant’s qualifications, investor criteria, and the P2P platform being used. Generally, the platform will determine the interest rate for borrowers based on their qualifications.To gain a deeper understanding of how P2P business lending works and the types of rates and terms you can expect, we’ve gathered information from a few popular P2P lending platforms:

Pros and Cons of P2P Business Loans for Borrowers

Peer-to-peer business lending offers both borrowers and investors numerous benefits, but there are also risks involved. Understanding some pros and cons, can help you make an educated decision when looking at peer to peer lending for small business. Pros
  • Typically quick loan application process and funding
  • Competitive interest rates for well-qualified borrowers
  • Access to funding for those who may not qualify with traditional lenders
  • More personal process as lenders can get to know the borrower’s story based on their profile
  • Many loans are unsecured
Cons
  • Limited regulations on peer-to-peer business lending could make this riskier than loans with traditional lenders; not backed by FDIC
  • Some P2P lenders offer small loan amounts leaving borrowers to seek additional funding elsewhere
  • Interest rates can vary greatly depending on borrower’s qualifications

Common P2P Business Loan Uses

One of the advantages of P2P business lending is that funds can be used for numerous purposes making it a viable option for many small business owners, although it’s important to check with the P2P lender on loan restrictions, if any. While peer-to-peer business loans may be sought by businesses that don’t qualify for a loan at a traditional bank or lender, almost anyone can apply for P2P loans. Common uses for P2P loan uses include:

5 Tips on Qualifying for a P2P Loan

Before applying for peer-to-peer business lending, check out these valuable tips to help you prepare and could help you qualify:1. Collect documentation before applying: You may need to provide items like:
  • Tax returns
  • Bank statements
  • Business tax returns
  • A business plan
  • Identifying documents
  • Personal story to share with investors reviewing your P2P inquiry
  • Documents regarding income and outstanding debts
2. Check credit rating: Check both your personal and business credit (if you’ve established business credit). Knowing your credit score will help you determine which P2P loans you’re eligible for. If your credit rating is low, you can take steps to improve it such as paying down debt and paying bills on time.3. Check requirements: Most P2P lenders will have basic requirements to apply such as proof of citizenship, age, residence, and bank account.4. Determine how much you can afford: Assess your business needs and finances to determine how much money you need to borrow and if you can responsibly pay back the loan. 5. Apply for pre-qualification: P2P lenders who offer pre-qualification typically do so via a soft credit pull (does not affect credit score) to check if you meet basic eligibility requirements before applying. 

Applying for a Peer-to-Peer Business Loans

As with any loan, you’ll want to take steps (like those noted above) to make sure you are eligible for the P2P loans you’re applying for. After you’ve determined eligibility, you can follow common steps like these to apply for business financing:1. Determine loan amount: After assessing all your financials to see what you can afford and what you need, determine your loan amount. You may also be able to use this amount when seeking pre-qualification or joining a P2P platform. 2. Choose the type of loan you want to apply for: Research different loan products offered on P2P lending platforms. Take note of the different loan amounts, interest rates, qualifications, and restrictions. Remember that P2P loans are typically for smaller amounts, which means loan terms may be short. 3. Compare P2P lending platforms: Do your research on the different P2P lending platforms out there. You’ll find that some focus on specific types of loans and/or businesses (e.g. non-profits, veteran-run). Research options to choose a platform that aligns with your business and its needs. 4. Apply with a P2P platform: Different platforms will have different requirements for approval. However, most will likely assess your credit score and history. From there, they may assign you a “grade” that lets investors know how risky of a borrower you are. Most P2P platforms will also provide you with an interest rate for your loan request. If you approve the rate, you can move on to securing funding.5. Set up your loan listing: If you’re approved to join the P2P platform, the next step is to create a loan listing (loan request). The process for setting up your loan listing will differ from one P2P platform to the next. In general, you’ll likely have to provide information regarding what your business is, how much money you need, and for what reason.Investors will then have the chance to review your loan request. Depending on the listing, there may be several investors who each lend a small amount or there could be one or two investors who lend a large amount. Once the bidding period is over, the funds are combined into one loan and made accessible to you.

Lenders Who Offer Peer-to-Peer Business Loans

Curious about lenders who offer peer-to-peer business loans? This sampling of lenders came from the Google search query “best peer-to-peer business lenders”:All information was accurate as of 4/14/21.

Alternatives to Peer-to-Peer Business Loans

Peer-to-peer business lending offers loans for a variety of business purposes, but if you need additional funding, consider these other financing options:

Restaurant Loans

Restaurant loans serve the needs or restaurant owners looking to start, renovate, or expand a restaurant business. 

Commercial Real Estate Loans

Commercial real estate loans are granted to business entities (individual or group) for a commercial property or land that is solely for business use.

Franchise Financing

If you’re preparing to open a franchise, a franchising loan can help with the expenses including the franchise license, franchise fees, and necessary startup capital associated with starting a business. In addition to general lenders, there are also franchise companies who specialize in offering loans specifically for franchise owners.  

Equipment Financing

Equipment loans are used to purchase equipment necessary for business operation. Loan terms are typically equal to the expected life span of the equipment and the equipment acts as collateral for the loan. Interest rates can vary depending on the industry, type of equipment, and qualifications.

Microloans

Microloans are those given for smaller amounts, generally $50,000 or less to support small businesses without access to other types of funding. They are often offered by nonprofits, government agencies, or individual lenders to be used for a variety of business expenses and often focus on specific types of borrowers, such as female entrepreneurs, underserved communities or veterans.

Working Capital Loan

A working capital loan is used to cover everyday expenses like payroll, monthly bills, and repairs. Many small businesses rely on working capital loans to manage short-term cash flow fluctuations due to seasonality, economic changes, or when expanding their business. 

Business Line of Credit

A business line of credit is a short-term loan option that gives borrowers access to a set amount of credit, which is determined by the lender, to be used for business expenses like repairs, emergencies, or working capital. Some lines of credit are revolving, while others end once you pay off the loan amount.

SBA Loans

SBA loans are short- or long-term business loans ideal for helping with starting or expanding a business. They are guaranteed by the US Small Business Administration (SBA) making them less risky for lenders and have competitive rates and terms for well-qualified borrowers. 

Compare P2P Lenders with Lantern by SoFi

Peer to business lending offers borrowers flexibility when choosing the right loan for their particular needs. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been in business for years, P2P business lending can help you get the capital you need in a timely manner.With so many P2P platforms and lender options, it can be overwhelming to know which is right for your business, which is why Lantern makes it quick and easy to compare P2P lenders. You get instant access to a network of small business financing options and a list of our approved lenders all in one place, so you can find the capital you need, when you need it.
Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website on credit (https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/topics/credit-and-loans)SOLC20081

About the Author

Lantern

Lantern

Lantern is a product comparison site that makes it easy for individuals to shop for products and compare offers with top lenders. Lantern is owned and operated by SoFi Lending Corp., the digital personal finance company that has helped over one million people get their money right.
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