The documents you need depend entirely on the type of funding. Fast, revenue-based programs ask for almost nothing; traditional bank and SBA loans ask for a lot. Here's both, so you know exactly what to gather.
The fast-funding short list
For same-day and revenue-based business funding, most owners only need:
- A simple one-page application — basic business and owner info.
- Your 4 most recent business bank statements — to confirm steady deposits.
That's often it. No tax returns, no financial statements, and no minimum credit score on many programs — because approval is based on your revenue, not your paperwork.
Tip: Keep clean bank statements. Steady deposits and few negative days are the single biggest factor in fast approvals — and they unlock larger offers.
The full list (for larger or traditional loans)
Term loans, SBA loans, and larger amounts may also require:
- Business tax returns (often 2–3 years) and personal tax returns
- Profit & loss statement and balance sheet
- Business formation documents and licenses
- EIN and a government-issued photo ID
- A business debt schedule (existing loans and payments)
- For equipment financing: an invoice or quote for the equipment
- For SBA: additional forms and a business plan
Want the fastest path?
If you'd rather not gather a pile of documents, revenue-based and bank statement business loans approve on your deposits — a one-page application and four bank statements can be enough to get funded the same or next business day.
See My Options →How to get approved faster
- Have statements ready — download your last four months before you apply.
- Match the loan to your documents — if you can't produce tax returns, choose a bank statement or revenue-based program.
- Be accurate — mismatched figures slow everything down.
Frequently asked questions
What's the minimum I need?
Usually a one-page application and four months of business bank statements for revenue-based funding.
Can I get a loan without tax returns?
Yes — bank statement and revenue-based programs don't require them and many have no minimum credit score.
Does applying hurt my credit?
No — seeing your options uses a soft review only; a hard pull happens only if you move forward.