Why You Shouldn't Rely on Business Credit to Fund Your Business at Least in the Beginning
Starting a business is a daunting task that requires proper funding, among other resources. One of the options that many business owners go for is business credit. While business credit can help run your business, there may be better decisions than relying on it during the startup phase.
In this blog post, we will explore why you should rely on something other than business credit to fund your business, especially during the early stages.
High-Interest Rates
Interest rates are significant when taking out a loan, especially for startups. In the first few years of your business, ensuring after that, taking more revenue than expenditure should be a priority. After that, taking out a high-interest loan will strain your finances further, leading to debt and other financial problems.
Too Much Debt
Starting a business is exciting, but it can also be challenging. First, you must establish a solid financial ground for your business with little debt. If you rely solely on business credit, you risk accumulating too much debt, which can harm your business's financial health. In addition, your cash flow will be negatively affected.
Limited Flexibility
Business credit is usually given based on your business's credit history, which can be limiting for startups. With a strong credit history, you might be able to secure sufficient funding to run your business effectively. Additionally, with business credit, the lenders dictate how the funds should be used, limiting your flexibility to pivot your business strategy or invest in your business's growth areas.
Personal Liability
You might have to provide a personal guarantee to secure the loan when taking out business credit. In case of default, you could be held liable for the debt, putting your personal assets at risk. This can be a significant risk, especially for new business owners who might not have a lot of personal assets to back up the loan.
Starting a business requires a lot of financial planning, and there are better options than business credit alone. It is essential to consider other funding options and ensure you have a solid cash flow plan before borrowing. Business credit can be helpful for small businesses, but it can also lead to excessive debt, high-interest rates, limited flexibility, and personal liability.