How it works
How it works: from reading to funding
Six steps, no credit check to start, and a person — not a pile of lenders — on the other end.
Most readers come to The Business of Money with a question about cash flow, pricing, tax or growth. Some discover along the way that a well-timed facility would help. Here's what happens if you decide to ask. You can start with our free 13-week cash-flow forecaster, or go straight to the 60-second enquiry.
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1. Run your numbers (optional, but worth it)
Use the 13-week cash-flow forecaster or the price-rise calculator to size the gap or the opportunity. Knowing the number makes the conversation quicker.
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2. Tell us in about 60 seconds
The amount, what it's for, your turnover, your state and any property you own. There's no credit check when you enquire.
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3. A real person reads it and calls
Someone who understands business money reviews your enquiry and phones you to fill in the picture — trading history, timing, security and goals.
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4. You hear what's realistic
Unsecured or property-secured, how much, how quickly and what documents are needed. If we can't help, we'll say so plainly.
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5. Documents and assessment — only if you go ahead
Typically recent business bank statements, ID and ABN or ACN details, plus property information for secured loans. A credit check is discussed at this stage, not before.
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6. Funding
Funds are paid to your account, or directly to the ATO, the seller or the supplier where that suits the purpose.
What you'll want to have handy
- Your ABN or ACN and how long you've been trading.
- Recent business bank statements (for unsecured and cash-flow options).
- Details of any property you own, if you're considering a property-secured loan.
- What the funds are for and when you need them — a quote, a contract, a BAS notice or a forecast helps.
- Anything we should know upfront: ATO debt, past credit issues or a recent setback. They're considered case by case, and being upfront saves time.
Common questions
Does enquiring affect my credit score?
No. There's no credit check when you first enquire. A credit check is only discussed once you decide to go ahead with an application.
Will my details be passed to lots of lenders?
No. We don't sell or broadcast enquiries. One team looks after your enquiry and a real person calls you.
Why do you ask for accurate details on the form?
Because the amount, purpose, turnover and any property you own decide which option fits. Accurate answers mean the first call is useful and we don't waste your time.
How much can I borrow?
Unsecured and cash-flow facilities for trading businesses are typically from $5,000 to $500,000, sized on turnover and bank statements. Property-secured loans run from $20,000 to $5,000,000 over residential or commercial property.
Do you publish interest rates?
No. Every facility is priced on the business's own circumstances, so we explain the total cost once we understand your situation.
Can I use the funds for personal purposes?
No. All lending is for business purposes only.
When the plan needs capital, talk to us
A 60-second enquiry, no credit check when you first ask, your details kept with one team, and a real person who calls with options that fit.
No credit check to enquire
No spray-and-pray
A real person on your file