Plain-English guide

A line of credit before you need it.

Draw when you need it; pay interest on what you use, not the full limit.

What it is

A business line of credit is revolving: you draw for payroll or materials, repay, and draw again up to your limit. It is often easier to open before a crunch than in the middle of one.

Who it fits

  • Retailers with seasonal inventory cycles.
  • Agencies covering payroll between client payments.
  • Field businesses covering fuel or materials between settlements.

What many lenders look for

  • Many lenders want ~1+ year in business and business checking history.
  • LLCs and corporations are common; sole props may have fewer options.
  • Many cite ~600–625+ credit and stable deposits.

Pros

  • Flexibility for recurring gaps.
  • Interest only on outstanding balance on true LOCs.

Cons

  • Lenders can reduce limits in downturns.
  • Variable rates change your cost.

Questions to ask any provider

  1. Is this a true revolving LOC or a series of short-term draws?
  2. How often is the line reviewed?

FAQ

When should I apply?
When revenue is steady — not the week payroll bounces.