Pre-application checklist with organized business documents ready for submission

Free PDF Checklist

Pre-Application Checklist

The 5 factors lenders weigh, the documents you need at every stage, realistic funding timelines, and the mistakes that get applications declined. Know what to expect before you apply.

No spam. Just the guide.

Free
Download
No cost ever
Zero
Email Required
No signup needed
Expert
Written
By funding specialists
2026
Updated
Current information
5.0★★★★★78 Google ReviewsBasecamp Funding BBB Business Review

What You Get

What's Inside the Checklist

The 5 factors lenders weigh - ranked by importance with real examples

3-stage document checklist: pre-qualification, formal application, SBA

Funding timeline comparison: same-day to 3 months by product type

5 mistakes that get applications declined - and how to avoid each one

Pro tips for preparing your bank statements before you apply

Is This For You?

Who This Checklist Is For

First-time applicants who want to know exactly what to expect before they start

Business owners preparing to apply who want to gather all documents upfront and avoid delays

Owners who've been declined before and want to understand what went wrong and how to improve their next application

Preview

The 5 Factors Lenders Weigh

Every lender evaluates the same five factors, but weighs them differently. Here's what matters most:

50%Monthly Bank Deposits
20%Time in Business
10%Industry
10%Credit Score
10%Existing Debt

Revenue is king. Consistent monthly deposits matter more than credit score, industry, or time in business. The full guide includes real examples showing how lenders evaluate each factor.

Download the Full Checklist

Documents, timelines, lender criteria, and the mistakes that kill applications - all in a printable PDF.

No spam. Just the guide.

Related Tools

Prepare for Your Application

Qualification Estimator

See what you likely qualify for before you apply.

Loan Cost Calculator

Understand the true cost of different loan products.

Line of Credit Calculator

Compare revolving credit vs lump-sum working capital.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

See What You Qualify For

60 seconds. No credit impact. No obligation.

See What You Qualify For →