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Short Term
Business Loans

A quick funding process that offers short term business loans to business owners.

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Last Updated on March 24, 2025

Shield Funding Team

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Compare Short Term Business Loan Options

Shield Funding has been providing short term business loans to small business owners for over twenty years. We offer competitive rates, a quick and simple application process, and same-day funding in many cases. With decades of experience, we’ve become a trusted lender focused on helping businesses stay on track, manage day-to-day operations, and reach their growth goals.

Whether you need fast capital to cover payroll, restock inventory, handle cash flow gaps, or cover emergency expenses, our flexible short term loan options are tailored to your unique business needs. We’re a reliable solution for business owners who may not qualify for traditional bank loans or SBA financing, and for those who simply need fast, accessible funding to keep moving forward.

Apply For Your Business Loan Today!

What Do I Need to Qualify?

Below is a list of the general requirements to get approved for business funding with our basic program.

How Do I Apply?

Applying has never been easier. You can either call our toll free number 24 hours 7 days a week at:

OR

Submit your online application by clicking apply below and entering a few basic details about your business.

The Best Short Term Business Loans in 2024

Business Line of Credit

A business line of credit is a lot like a credit card—you get a maximum amount of credit and can spend any amount below that repeatedly (as long as you pay it back in between withdrawals). That makes lines of credit great for day-to-day purchases like inventory, decor, or marketing. Because bar inventory usually has high turnover, you’ll be making a lot of inventory purchases. So a financing option like this can be a big help.

Since it’s always available once you’ve been approved, it’s also a big help for weathering unexpected costs. Your keg cooling system might break, for example—and you need to get it fixed as fast as possible. Or you could come across an opportunity to take part in a local event that requires some upfront cash. Again, since you’ve already been approved, you’ll have the funds on hand to take advantage.

Interest rates are relatively low—usually in the 5–10% range. And because you can get up to $250,000 of revolving credit, you can use it to build up some momentum when you grow your business. We work with borrowers who have a credit score of 650 or higher, have been in business for six months or more, and have monthly revenue of at least $10,000 for business lines of credit. We also require at least five monthly deposits.

Small Business Loans

A standard short term business loan will be a big help in expanding your jewelry business. You can get up to $1,000,000 from Shield Funding to help grow or expand your business.

What can you use that money for? Anything you want. You can use it to buy a new location or get a headstart on your rent payments. Buy expensive equipment to start making custom set or engraved jewelry. Hire more help. Install a better security system.

A term small business loan can be used for almost anything related to your business. And because you have the flexibility to get loans for anywhere from three to 36 months, you have a lot of options.

You’ll pay between 5–45% interest, depending on your credit and business financials. Because many jewelers are women, it’s also worth noting that we offer small business loan options specifically for women.

Merchant Cash Advance

We know that businesses have a tough time receiving working capital. If you try to get a loan from a traditional lender, you’ll get denied fast. We don’t think any factor should disqualify you from getting funding for your business. At Shield Funding we can approve and fund your loan within 24 hours.

So we offer short term merchant cash advances of up to $1,000,000 to business owners with credit scores above 500. You’ll pay 12–45% interest on terms up to 36 months. As long as your business has been open for a few months and you have $8,000 in monthly revenue, you can qualify and even receive funds the same day.

Bad Credit Business Loans

Just because you have bad credit doesn’t mean you can’t get a business loan to grow your business. As long as you have a credit score of 500 or above, we’ll work with you to find a loan that meets your needs.

Keep in mind that your terms and rates may be less flexible if you have bad credit. You’ll need to prove that you have at least $10,000 in monthly revenue and that you’ve been in business for two months or more. And you won’t get an interest rate below 12%.

But when you need cash to build your business, a bad credit small business loan will help. And if you have bad credit, there’s little chance that you’ll qualify for a loan from a traditional bank.

Apply for Short Term Business Loans!

Work with a direct lender and get a short term business loan as fast as the same day. Shield Funding offers competitive rates and terms on all it’s funding programs. Apply now with a trusted lender that has been helping business owners secure working capital for two decades.

Additional Short Term Business Funding Programs Available

SBA Business Loans

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has introduced the 7(a) Working Capital Pilot (WCP) program to provide small businesses with flexible, government-backed lines of credit. Effective from August 1, 2024, through July 31, 2027, this pilot program offers lines of credit up to $5 million, with terms up to 60 months, to support both domestic and international transactions.

The SBA Microloan Program offers small businesses and nonprofit childcare centers short-term loans of up to $50,000 to support their growth and operational needs. These loans can be used for working capital, purchasing inventory, or buying equipment, making them a versatile solution for smaller financial needs. With repayment terms of up to six years, the program provides flexibility to manage payments while focusing on building the business. The loans are issued through local community-based lenders, ensuring personalized support and guidance for borrowers.

Bank and Credit Union Business Loans

American Express offers short-term business loans to help businesses quickly access the funds they need. These loans are great for covering cash flow gaps, buying inventory, or managing unexpected costs. Options include lines of credit, invoice factoring, and merchant cash advances, giving businesses flexible ways to borrow. With fast funding and easy qualifications, these loans are a smart choice for handling short-term expenses or opportunities.
First National Bank (FNB) offers short-term financing solutions to help businesses manage immediate financial needs. Their Working Capital Lines of Credit provide flexible funds for daily expenses like inventory and payroll, allowing businesses to borrow, repay, and borrow again up to their credit limit, paying interest only on the amount used. For unexpected expenses or projects, FNB’s Unsecured Lines of Credit offer immediate borrowing power without the need for collateral, providing financial flexibility to successfully run your business. FNB’s experienced relationship managers work closely with clients to understand their objectives and provide customized solutions for short-term goals.
Main Street Bank offers short-term business loans designed to help manage cash flow and address immediate financial needs. These loans feature terms ranging from one to five years, with fixed or variable interest rates, and are processed locally for a quick turnaround. With competitive rates, fast approvals, and the support of experienced local lenders, Main Street Bank provides a reliable solution for businesses seeking flexible financing.
KEMBA Financial Credit Union offers short-term business loans starting at $5,000, with repayment periods up to 18 months and competitive rates. These loans are designed to help businesses manage cash flow, cover unexpected expenses, or seize new opportunities. The application process is straightforward, ensuring quick turnaround times. KEMBA’s experienced commercial lenders work closely with clients to tailor loans to fit specific business needs.

Texas Gulf Bank provides short-term business loans and lines of credit to help businesses manage cash flow, cover daily expenses, and handle seasonal changes or unexpected costs. Their term loans offer a lump sum with set repayment schedules, while lines of credit give flexible borrowing up to a set limit. These financing options are made to give businesses quick access to funds and the flexibility to meet their unique needs. Partnering with Texas Gulf Bank also means working with a local team that provides personalized support and financial solutions to help businesses thrive.

Business Line of Credit

Fifth Third Bank offers business lines of credit to help manage short-term financial needs like inventory purchases, payroll, or unexpected expenses. These lines of credit provide flexible access to funds, allowing businesses to borrow up to a set limit and pay interest only on the amount used. Fifth Third offers both unsecured lines of credit, ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, and secured lines for amounts over $100,000, which require collateral such as accounts receivable or inventory. The application process is quick, with approvals and funding available in as little as one business day.

Learn More About Short Term Business Loans

What Are Short Term Business Loans?

Our short term business funding solutions can be very good options to deal with the daily expenses of operating your business. Our financing programs can help you meet payroll, pay off creditors that keep hounding you for payments, or even purchase business equipment that can help make your business run smoothly. In fact, our funding solutions can be a good option for any of the immediate financial issues that might have arisen while running your company when all you need is just a little bit of time to catch back up and get hold of your operating budget. 

Although a short term business loan can be good for many business needs, there are some expenses that are not ideal for this type of financing. For instance, paying off less expensive debt would not make sense. However, there may be scenarios where this type of borrowing can be beneficial therefore we encourage you to speak with an accountant or financial advisor to determine if any of our short term business loans are a good fit for your business.

Common Uses for Short Term Business Loans

Short term business funding is a flexible financing option that can be used for a variety of important business needs. One of the most common uses is to acquire inventory, especially before busy seasons like the holidays. With extra capital, businesses can buy in bulk to reduce costs and ensure they have enough stock to meet customer demand. Another common use is for hiring additional labor, whether it’s upgrading part-time workers to full-time or bringing on new employees to support growth.

Short term funding also allows businesses to invest in marketing efforts, such as launching social media campaigns or online ads, which can quickly boost visibility and revenue. Finally, short term funding can support expansion efforts, giving businesses the ability to open new locations or grow their presence in the market. Whether it’s for growth or to meet immediate needs, short term financing can make a big difference in moving a business forward.

What to Consider Before Getting a Same Day Business Loan

What Can You Afford?

Before committing to a short term business loan, it’s important to take a close look at your cash flow and repayment ability. Review your monthly income, expenses, and profit margins to figure out what you can comfortably afford in loan payments. Since short term loans often have higher interest rates and faster repayment schedules, make sure you understand the full cost, including any fees. Borrowing too much can put pressure on your business finances, while a loan with manageable payments can help keep operations running smoothly and support growth. Always ensure that repaying the loan won’t hurt your day-to-day cash flow.

Why Do You Need The Funds?

Before getting a short term business loan, it’s important to know exactly how you plan to use the money. These loans are flexible and can help with many business needs, like buying inventory before a busy season, hiring more staff, or investing in marketing to bring in more customers. You can also use the funds to expand your business, like opening a new location. Knowing your goal will help you borrow the right amount and choose repayment terms that work for you. A clear plan also makes sure the loan helps your business grow without creating extra debt.

Are Short Term Business Loans Right For You?

Our short term business loans can be a good fit if you require working capital for a relatively short period of time and you want some of the best rates and terms that we offer. This type of financing does however require a fair credit score so if you know your credit score is below 650 please see our business cash advance loans. Our short term program is a great solution if you do not meet the requirements for traditional financing but there are some important evaluations to make before you acquire this type of funding. Can your business manage the payments of short term financing because the payments are larger when compared to a loan for the same amount over a longer period of time. You also have to consider what the total cost is for the financing and whether the loan will be a benefit or a burden for your business. These are just some of the questions you have to consider before applying.

Exploring the Short Term Business Loan Application Process

Common Factors That Impact Your Short Term Business Loan Application

Several factors determine whether you’re approved for a short term business loan. While your credit history is reviewed, lenders often focus more on your business performance than your credit score. They’ll look at how long you’ve been in business, your monthly revenue, cash flow consistency, and banking activity. Lenders also consider your industry type, seasonal trends, and your business’s overall financial health to decide if you can repay the loan. Because short term loans are designed for speed and flexibility, approval often depends more on your business’s current cash flow than traditional loan requirements.

How Much Do I Qualify For?

The amount you can qualify for with a short term business loan mainly depends on your monthly revenue and business bank deposits. In many cases, lenders may approve up to 70% or more of your average monthly deposits. For example, if your business deposits around $50,000 per month, you might qualify for a loan of about $35,000 or more. Lenders will review your cash flow, deposit history, and overall financial stability to determine the loan amount. A steady flow of income and consistent deposits will improve your chances of receiving higher funding.

How Does Paying Back The Short Term Business Loan Work?

Once your short term business loan is funded, repayment typically begins right away through daily or weekly automatic withdrawals from your business bank account. If you’re set up with daily payments, funds are usually debited on a five-day business week, excluding weekends and holidays. Weekly repayment plans involve a single payment once a week for the agreed amount. This repayment structure helps you manage the loan in smaller, more manageable portions, making it easier to maintain your cash flow while staying on top of your loan payments.

What Will a Short Term Business Loan Cost You?

The cost of a short term business loan is based on the factor rate and the length of the loan term. For example, if you receive $20,000 for 12 months at a factor rate of 1.15, you would repay a total of $23,000, which includes $3,000 in financing costs. Unlike traditional interest, the factor rate is applied upfront, so you know your total repayment from the start. Your daily or weekly payment amounts will vary depending on your repayment schedule, but the total cost stays the same. This structure offers clarity and helps you plan your finances with confidence.

How to Compare Short Term Business Loan Lender Options

Interest Rates

This is likely one of the most important benchmarks you will use to compare lending options. If one lender offers a better interest rate than the other and all other things remain the same you can have a good idea of the rate comparison. You must keep in mind that different products such as credit cards or car loans work using traditional financing interest rates and APR, but many alternative funding programs quote in a factor rate or annualized interest rates so try to compare options based on the types of loans they are most similar to. And ultimately it will come down to what you have to pay back when all is said and done.

Payback Amount

When comparing lending options, whether quoted in factor rates, interest rates, or any other framework, what is most important is what you will pay back when all is said and done. For this reason you should always try to look at what you will pay over the entire life of the loan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Repayment terms for short-term loans typically range from three months to two years, with payments made weekly or monthly. Some lenders may offer daily payment options, which help reduce the impact on cash flow by spreading out repayments in smaller amounts.

Short-term loans can be an option for startups if they have some business history and stable cash flow. However, newer businesses may find it more challenging to qualify with traditional lenders and may need to explore alternative options like invoice factoring or merchant cash advances.

Industries with seasonal fluctuations or high working capital demands, such as retail, restaurants, construction, and manufacturing, often benefit the most from short-term business loans. These loans help manage costs during slow periods or ramp up for busy seasons.

Short-term loans often come with fees like origination fees, prepayment penalties, or late payment charges. Some lenders may also charge factor rates instead of traditional interest, which can result in higher overall costs. Always review the terms before accepting a loan.

Some short-term business loans are secured, requiring collateral like inventory, accounts receivable, or business assets. However, many lenders also offer unsecured options that don’t require collateral, though they may have higher interest rates or stricter qualification requirements.

To increase approval chances, maintain a healthy cash flow, ensure your business has consistent revenue, and organize your financial documents, such as bank statements and tax returns. A strong business plan and good payment history with other creditors can also help secure better terms.

Don’t just take our
word for it…
Jan 07, 2025
Daniel was kind and helpful

Daniel was very easy to work with. Explained everything in an easy to understand manner, worked whenever needed and was even able to get better terms after my initial hesitation. Easiest quick business financing I have ever worked with and very straightforward. Would recommend speaking with Shield funding and Daniel specifically.

Jan 07, 2025
review
Mastery of Customer Service

This company reminded me of what “real” customer service is. Our President and CFO both spoke highly of Mr. Scott Davis’s ability to deliver on exactly what he said he could, when he said he could do it. He showed true perfection in handling complex interpersonal relationships within our restructuring team. The process was extremely simple and straight to the point, with results (in our case) within a matter of hours. No surprises, just pure delivery on exactly what was promised. Excellent terms. Customer service mastery. Excellent follow-up. Our team now calls him Scott “The Money Man” Davis - and we’re already looking forward to working with him on our next capitalization project!

Dec 31, 2024
Dan Zuberman was such a great help

Dan Zuberman was such a great help. He worked hard to get us the funding we needed in record time! I appreciate him and the rest of the Shield Funding team and recommend them to all who need funds for their business!

Dec 13, 2024
Within moments of submitting my info…

Within moments of submitting my info Eli Miller contacted me and stayed with me through the entire process, even while I was comparing his offer to others. His expertise and the comfort he offered made working with Shield Funding the only option I was comfortable with. Money was in my account the next morning. Thank you Eli!!!

Dec 12, 2024
I appreciate everything that Issac…

I appreciate everything that Issac helped me with, he answered all my questions with patience. Issac made the process very simple and quick. I recommend to anyone who is looking for quick funding.

Nov 26, 2024
Everyone at Shield Funding has been…

Everyone at Shield Funding has been nothing short of accommodating and helpful. They have truly made the loan process easy and quick. Daniel has answered all of my questions promptly and accurately.