Working capital is an essential part of any business, as it is the lifeblood that keeps operations running smoothly. In India, getting a Working Capital Loan is a popular choice for businesses looking to meet their short-term financial needs. However, obtaining a Working Capital Loan approval can be a daunting task, as several requirements have to be met beforehand.
This article will explore the various requirements that businesses need to fulfil to obtain Working Capital Loan approval in India.
- Credit Score – One of the primary factors that lenders consider when approving a Working Capital Loan is the credit score of the business. A credit score is a numerical representation of a business’s creditworthiness, and it is based on several factors, including payment history, credit utilization, credit mix, and credit inquiries.
To qualify for a Working Capital Loan in India, businesses must have a credit score of at least 700. A high credit score not only increases the chances of loan approval but also helps in negotiating favourable terms and interest rates.
- Business Vintage – The vintage of a business is another critical factor that lenders consider when approving Working Capital Loans. Vintage refers to the number of years a business has been operating, and it indicates the stability and sustainability of the business.
To qualify for a Working Capital Loan, businesses must have a minimum vintage of 2-3 years. However, some lenders may require a longer vintage, depending on the nature of the business.
- Financial Statements – Lenders require businesses to submit their financial statements to assess their financial health and repayment capacity. Financial statements typically include the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement, which provide insights into the business’s revenue, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
To qualify for a Working Capital Loan, businesses must have healthy financial statements that demonstrate a positive cash flow, profitability, and manageable debt levels. Lenders may also require audited financial statements, especially for higher loan amounts.
- Collateral – Collateral refers to any asset that a borrower must pledge to the lender to secure a loan. In case of default, the lender can seize the collateral to recover the outstanding amount. Collateral provides security to the lender and reduces the risk of loan default.
In the case of a secured Working Capital Loan, businesses may be required to provide collateral, such as property, machinery, or inventory, depending on the lender’s policy. The value of the collateral should be sufficient to cover the loan amount, and the collateral should be free from any legal disputes or encumbrances. However, some Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) offer unsecured Working Capital Loans that do not require any collateral.
- Business Plan – A business plan is a comprehensive document that highlights the goals, operations, and strategies of a business. It provides insights into the business’s growth potential, market opportunities, and competitive landscape.
Businesses looking to apply for a Working Capital Loan in India will be required to submit a detailed business plan that outlines their growth strategy and repayment capacity. The business plan should include financial projections, market research, and a detailed description of the products or services offered.
- Industry Experience – Industry experience refers to the knowledge and expertise of business owners in the domain they operate in. Lenders consider industry experience as an indicator of the business’s ability to manage risks and adapt to changes in the market.
Hence, when applying for a Working Capital Loan, business owners should have relevant industry experience that demonstrates their ability to manage the business effectively. Lenders may also consider the experience of key employees in the business.
Eligibility Criteria for Working Capital Loan
- Citizenship: Indian
- Age: 24 to 65 years
- Business Vintage: 2 years or above
- Business Turnover: ₹6 Lakh or above
Documents Required for a Working Capital Loan
- Identity Proof: PAN card/Aadhaar card/Passport
- Business Address Proof: Rent agreement/Utility bills
- Financial Documents: Bank account statements from the last 6 months
Conclusion
In conclusion, obtaining a Working Capital Loan approval in India requires businesses to meet several requirements, including a high credit score, minimum vintage, healthy financial statements, collateral, business plan, and industry experience. Meeting these requirements can increase the chances of loan approval and help businesses secure favourable terms and interest rates. Businesses need to prepare and present their loan application diligently, as it can significantly impact their chances of a loan.
