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If you own a limited liability company (LLC) and need funding, understanding llc loans can help you find the right financing to grow your business. Whether you’re looking for an llc business loan, llc startup loan, or llc small business loan, this guide breaks down everything you need to know—from what LLC loans are to how to apply and alternative funding options.

What Is an LLC Loan?

An LLC loan is a type of business loan tailored for limited liability companies. While lenders don’t usually have strict rules based on your business structure, LLC loans are designed to help fund startup costs, working capital, equipment purchases, expansion, and refinancing.

You can get LLC loans from banks, credit unions, online lenders, and SBA programs. These loans work like any other business loan, where you receive a lump sum or a line of credit, repayable with interest over time. Some loans require collateral (secured loans), while others don’t (unsecured loans).

How an LLC Loan Works

Once approved, lenders will provide funds either as a lump sum or a credit line. You’ll repay the loan with fixed or variable interest rates, making payments monthly, weekly, or as agreed.

Important: Most LLC loans require a personal guarantee, meaning you’re personally responsible if the business can’t repay. This can affect your personal assets, so understand the risks before signing.

Best LLC Loan Options

These options vary by loan amount, credit score requirements, and business age. SBA loans offer great terms but take longer to fund, while online lenders provide faster access with more flexible requirements.

How to Get an LLC Business Loan?

1. Review Loan Requirements

Most lenders want to see a personal credit score of 600-700+, at least several months to a couple of years in business, and proof of steady revenue. New LLCs might qualify for loans relying more on personal credit.

2. Choose the Right Loan Type

Decide if you need a term loan, line of credit, SBA loan, or equipment financing. Your funding goals and timeline will guide this choice.

3. Compare Lenders

Banks and credit unions offer the best rates but have strict requirements. Online lenders fund quickly but may charge higher interest. Always check reviews and avoid lenders promising guaranteed approval or no credit checks.

4. Gather Documentation

Prepare your EIN, LLC formation documents, tax returns, bank statements, and financial statements. Having everything ready speeds up approval.

5. Apply and Review Terms

Submit your application online or in person. Once approved, carefully review loan terms before signing.

Alternatives to LLC Loans

If you don’t qualify or want other options, consider:

• Small-business grants: Free money but competitive and time-consuming to apply.
• Personal loans: Use your credit but risk personal assets.
• Business credit cards: Useful for short-term expenses or 0% intro APR offers.
• Crowdfunding: Raise money without debt but requires marketing effort.
• Loans from family and friends: Flexible but should be formalized in writing.

Final Thoughts

Getting an llc loan involves understanding your business needs, credit profile, and loan options. Whether you’re after an llc startup loan or a small business loan for an established LLC, preparing well and comparing lenders can help you secure the funding you need.

It started with a sinking feeling. My credit card debt was piling up, and every month, the interest charges felt like quicksand. I’d heard about balance transfers, but every offer I found came with a catch—hidden fees that ate into my savings. That’s when I discovered the power of a no balance transfer fee credit card, and it changed everything.

The Search for the Best Balance Transfer Cards

I was desperate to find a way out. Like most people, I searched for “credit cards with no balance transfer fee” and “best balance transfer cards.” The options were overwhelming, but most had one thing in common: a transfer fee, usually around 3% to 5%. For someone already struggling, that fee was a dealbreaker.

Then, late one night, I stumbled across a 0 transfer fee credit card. It almost seemed too good to be true. Could there really be balance transfer cards with no transfer fee at all? After digging deeper, I realized these offers do exist, but they’re rare and competitive. The key is to act fast when you find one.

Are There Any Balance Transfer Cards With No Transfer Fee?

The answer is yes—but you have to know where to look. Most major banks and credit card companies occasionally roll out special promotions for no balance transfer fee cards. These deals are designed to attract new customers, so they don’t last long. I learned to check the fine print: sometimes, the 0 transfer fee only applies for a limited time or to transfers made within the first few months.

When I finally snagged one of these offers, it felt like a turning point. I moved my high-interest debt over, and suddenly, I wasn’t losing money to fees or sky-high interest. My monthly payments went further, and I could finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.

What I Wish I Knew Before

If you’re thinking about a balance transfer, here’s what I learned:

• Always read the terms. Some cards offer no balance transfer fee, but only for a short window.
• Watch for the interest rate after the intro period. Make sure you can pay off your balance before rates rise.
• Don’t fall for scams. Only use trusted banks or card issuers—avoid unverified bots or sketchy sites.

The Takeaway: Your Path to Zero Fees

Finding a no balance transfer fee card isn’t easy, but it’s possible—and it can make a huge difference. If you’re tired of watching your payments disappear into fees, start searching for “credit cards with no balance transfer fee” or “0 transfer fee credit cards.” Compare offers, act quickly, and always double-check the details.

A few years ago, I needed to transfer funds internationally to support family abroad. Initially, I underestimated the complexities involved—hidden fees, fluctuating exchange rates, and lengthy transfer times posed significant challenges. This experience underscored the importance of understanding the nuances of transferring money internationally. If you are searching for “how to send money internationally” or “best international money transfer,” this guide will provide clear, actionable insights to help you make informed decisions.

Understanding Your Options for Sending Money Overseas

When considering international money transfers, several methods are available:

• Bank Wire Transfers: Traditional and secure, but often accompanied by higher fees and slower processing times, typically ranging from 2 to 5 business days.
• Online Money Transfer Services: Providers such as Wise, Remitly, and WorldRemit offer competitive exchange rates, lower fees, and faster delivery, often within minutes to a day.
• Money Transfer Operators: Established companies like Western Union and MoneyGram facilitate cash pickups globally but may charge premium fees.
• Cryptocurrency Transfers: An emerging alternative offering near-instantaneous transfers with minimal fees, though requiring familiarity with digital assets and wallets.

Criteria for Selecting the Best International Money Transfer Service

When evaluating transfer services, consider the following factors:

• Transparency of Fees: Ensure that the service clearly discloses all charges, including hidden costs embedded in exchange rates.
• Transfer Speed: Depending on urgency, select a service that aligns with your required delivery timeframe.
• Exchange Rate Competitiveness: Even marginal differences in rates can significantly affect the total amount received.
• Geographical and Currency Support: Verify that the service supports the recipient’s country and preferred currency.
• Security and Regulatory Compliance: Opt for providers regulated by relevant financial authorities to safeguard your funds.

Practical Tips for Efficient and Cost-Effective Transfers

• Conduct Comparative Research: Utilize online comparison tools to assess fees and exchange rates across multiple platforms.
• Verify Recipient Information: Accuracy in beneficiary details is critical to avoid delays or misdirected funds.
• Monitor Transfer Status: Leverage tracking features to stay informed throughout the transfer process.
• Understand Transaction Limits: Be aware of minimum and maximum transfer amounts imposed by providers.
• Explore Cryptocurrency Options: For tech-savvy users, cryptocurrency may offer a viable alternative for cross-border payments.

Key Takeaway: Minimize Costs and Maximize Efficiency

My initial international transfer experience taught me the value of due diligence. By thoroughly researching and selecting the appropriate transfer method, you can avoid unnecessary fees and ensure timely delivery of funds.

Conclusion: Streamlining Your International Money Transfers

Whether for personal support, business, or investment purposes, understanding how to send money overseas efficiently is essential. Selecting the right transfer service tailored to your needs can enhance security, reduce costs, and provide peace of mind.

For ongoing insights into international finance and money transfer solutions, subscribe to our newsletter.

Paying off student loans fast is a goal many of us share. The more you pay beyond the minimum each month, the quicker your balance shrinks and the less interest you’ll owe overall. But extra payments aren’t the only way to get ahead on your student debt. Here are seven smart strategies to help you pay off student loans fast in 2025.

1. Make Extra Payments Toward Your Principal

There’s no penalty for paying off student loans early or making extra payments. However, a common mistake is letting your loan servicer apply extra payments toward future due dates instead of directly reducing your principal balance. This won’t speed up payoff because your extra money might just cover upcoming payments or accrued interest first.

To avoid this, contact your servicer online, by phone, or mail, and instruct them to apply any overpayments specifically to your principal. If you have multiple loans, focus on paying off the ones with the highest interest rates first. Even an extra $100 a month on a $10,000 loan at 4.5% interest can cut years off your repayment timeline.

2. Enroll in Autopay for Interest Rate Discounts

Many federal and private lenders offer a small interest rate discount — usually 0.25% — if you sign up for automatic payments. While the savings might seem small, every bit helps when you combine it with other payoff strategies. Plus, autopay helps you avoid late fees and keeps your payments consistent.

3. Switch to Biweekly Payments

Instead of paying once a month, split your payment in half and pay every two weeks. This results in 26 half-payments or 13 full payments a year — one extra payment annually without feeling the pinch. This simple trick can shave months off your loan term and save you money on interest.

4. Pay Off Interest Before It Capitalizes

If you have unsubsidized federal loans or private loans, interest accrues while you’re in school, during grace periods, or deferment. When repayment starts, unpaid interest capitalizes — meaning it’s added to your principal, increasing the amount you owe interest on.

Consider making interest-only payments during school or grace periods to avoid capitalization. This won’t immediately reduce your principal, but it prevents your balance from growing, making your eventual payoff faster.

5. Stick to the Standard 10-Year Repayment Plan

Federal loans default to a 10-year standard repayment plan, which pays off your debt fastest. Income-driven plans lower monthly payments but extend repayment to 20-25 years, increasing total interest paid.

If you can afford it, sticking to the standard plan is the best way to pay off student loans fast. Use the government’s loan simulator to compare payment amounts and total costs across plans.

6. Refinance for Lower Interest Rates (If It Makes Sense)

Refinancing replaces your existing loans with a new private loan, ideally at a lower interest rate and shorter term. This can save you thousands in interest and speed up payoff — but it’s best for borrowers with good credit, steady income, and private loans.

Be cautious refinancing federal loans, as you’ll lose access to federal protections like income-driven plans and forgiveness programs. If you qualify for those benefits, refinancing might not be the best choice.

7. Use “Found” Money to Make Extra Payments

Got a raise, tax refund, bonus, or side hustle income? Put some or all of that extra cash toward your student loans. Even small lump sums can reduce your principal and cut interest costs. Also, check if your employer offers student loan repayment assistance — it’s an increasingly popular employee benefit.

Final Thoughts

The fastest way to pay off student loans combines multiple strategies: making extra principal payments, enrolling in autopay, switching to biweekly payments, and refinancing when appropriate. Staying disciplined and proactive can help you become debt-free years ahead of schedule.

Dreaming of a bigger paycheck? The idea of living in a state without income tax can seem like an instant raise. As of 2025, eight states fit this description: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wyoming. An additional state, Washington, doesn't tax earned income but does levy a 7% tax on long-term capital gains over $270,000. But before you pack your bags, it's crucial to understand how these states keep the lights on and what it means for your wallet.

How Do States Without Income Tax Make Money?

if a state isn't collecting income tax, how does it fund schools, roads, and public services? The answer lies in a diversified approach to revenue generation. These states have become creative in how they finance their operations, ensuring they can still provide for their residents.

The Power of Sales and Property Taxes

One of the primary ways states without an income tax make up for the revenue is through higher sales and property taxes. For instance, Texas is known for having some of the highest property tax rates in the nation. Similarly, states like Florida and Tennessee rely heavily on sales tax to fund state services. So, while you might be saving on income tax, you could end up paying more when you buy a new home or go shopping.

Tapping into Natural Resources and Tourism

Some states have unique economic advantages that they leverage. Alaska, for example, funds a significant portion of its government through taxes on its vast oil and gas production. In fact, the state even provides an annual dividend to its residents from the Alaska Permanent Fund.    Nevada, on the other hand, leans on its booming tourism and gaming industries to generate revenue.

Other Revenue Streams to Consider

Beyond sales and property taxes, states without an income tax utilize a variety of other fees and taxes to fill their coffers. These can include:

Excise Taxes: These are taxes on specific goods like gasoline, alcohol, and tobacco. Corporate Taxes: While they may not tax personal income, some of these states, like Florida, do have a corporate income tax. Wyoming, however, has neither an individual nor a corporate income tax. Fees for Government Services: This can include everything from vehicle registration to fees for state parks.

The Pros and Cons of Living in US States Without an Income Tax

The most obvious benefit of living in a state without an income tax is that you keep more of your hard-earned money. This can be especially advantageous for high-income earners.  Additionally, retirees can benefit as their retirement income, including pensions and Social Security, often isn't taxed at the state level.  

However, the lack of an income tax doesn't automatically translate to a lower cost of living. As mentioned, higher property and sales taxes can offset the savings. Furthermore, some of these states may have fewer public services or less funding for education and infrastructure due to revenue limitations. It’s also worth noting that the cost of home and auto insurance can be significantly higher in some of these states, such as Florida and Texas.

Is a Move to a State Without an Income Tax Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision to move to a state without an income tax depends on your individual financial situation and lifestyle. It's essential to look at the complete tax picture, not just the absence of an income tax. Consider your spending habits, whether you plan to own property, and the importance of public services in your decision-making process. For instance, a high-earner who rents may find significant savings, while a family with children might prioritize states with better-funded public schools.

Before making a move, do your research and consider visiting the state to get a feel for the culture and cost of living.

If you're looking to learn more about managing your finances, whether you live in a state with income tax or not, exploring educational resources can be a great first step.

If you're a small business owner wondering what banks do SBA loans or who does SBA loans, you're in the right place. SBA loans are a popular financing option backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, but the loans themselves come from approved lenders like banks, credit unions, and specialized financial institutions. Choosing the right SBA lender can make a big difference in your loan approval process, interest rates, and overall experience.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover the best SBA lenders for 2025, explain how SBA loans work, and give you tips on finding the best banks for SBA loans that fit your business needs.

What Are SBA Lenders and How Do SBA Loans Work?

SBA lenders are financial institutions authorized by the SBA to offer loans partially guaranteed by the government. This guarantee reduces the lender’s risk, allowing them to offer more favorable terms such as lower down payments, longer repayment periods, and competitive interest rates.

The SBA doesn’t lend money directly; instead, it partners with these lenders to help small businesses access capital. SBA loans come in various types, with the most common being:

• SBA 7(a) loans: The most popular loan type, used for working capital, equipment, real estate, and debt refinancing.
• SBA 504 loans: Designed for purchasing fixed assets like real estate or large equipment, often involving a Certified Development Company (CDC) alongside a bank.
• SBA Microloans: Smaller loans (up to $50,000) offered through nonprofit intermediaries to help startups and small businesses.

Who Are the Best SBA Lenders in 2025?

Based on loan volume, approval rates, and borrower experience, here are some of the top SBA lenders to consider:

1. Newtek Bank

Newtek Bank is currently the most active SBA lender by total loan amount, having issued over $1 billion in SBA 7(a) loans in fiscal year 2025. They serve U.S.-based, for-profit businesses with at least two to three years of tax returns. Newtek offers personalized service with a dedicated lending specialist who guides you through the entire process.

2. Huntington National Bank

Huntington approved the most SBA 7(a) loans in fiscal year 2024 and continues to be a top lender in 2025. They offer loans up to $5 million with down payments as low as 10%, along with SBA Express loans for faster access to smaller amounts. Huntington also runs the Lift Local Business Program, supporting minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses with financial education and SBA loan assistance.

3. Northeast Bank

Northeast Bank is a top lender by number of loans approved and total loan amount. Based in Maine, it offers SBA 7(a) loans up to $500,000 and streamlines the application process through online tools, making it easier for borrowers to apply with fewer documents.

4. Readycap Lending

Readycap Lending, a subsidiary of Ready Capital, has issued over $550 million in SBA 7(a) loans in 2025. They provide loans ranging from $350,000 to $5 million for business expansion, equipment purchase, working capital, and refinancing.

5. Live Oak Banking Company

Live Oak Bank is the second-most active SBA 7(a) lender by dollar amount and offers an online-based application process nationwide. They provide loans up to $5 million with up to 90% financing and typically require a 10% down payment. Live Oak also offers SBA 504 loans for larger projects.

6. JPMorgan Chase Bank

JPMorgan Chase, one of the largest banks in the U.S., offers SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million and SBA Express loans up to $500,000. They provide SBA 504 loans for equipment and real estate purchases, with dedicated loan officers to assist borrowers.

7. Lendistry

Lendistry is a minority-led community development financial institution that focuses on underserved communities. They offer SBA 7(a) loans between $25,000 and $5 million with an entirely online application process and personalized customer support.

8. TD Bank

TD Bank ranks among the top SBA lenders by loan approval count and offers SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million, SBA 504 loans, and SBA Express loans up to $350,000.

9. BayFirst National Bank

BayFirst offers a fast funding SBA Bolt Loan program with amounts up to $150,000 and funding within days. They also provide standard SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million.

10. Celtic Bank

Celtic Bank offers SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million, Express loans up to $150,000, construction loans, and SBA loans over $5 million. They are a preferred SBA lender headquartered in Utah.

How to Choose the Best SBA Lender for Your Business

Finding the right SBA lender depends on your business needs and preferences. Here are some tips:

• Start with your current bank or credit union: Existing relationships can speed up approval.
• Use the SBA Lender Match tool: Answer a few questions on the SBA website to get matched with lenders suited to your needs.
• Compare loan terms: Interest rates, fees, repayment terms, and down payment requirements vary by lender.
• Ask about the application process: Does the lender assign a dedicated loan specialist? How long does approval typically take?
• Check if the lender is SBA Preferred: Preferred Lenders can approve loans faster without SBA review.

What Do SBA Lenders Look For?

To qualify for an SBA loan, lenders typically require:

• A credit score of at least 640.
• A solid business plan and financial statements.
• Proof of ability to repay the loan.
• Collateral for larger loans.
• Usually two or more years in business (some exceptions for microloans).

Final Thoughts on SBA Lenders

SBA loans can be a lifeline for small businesses, offering affordable financing with flexible terms. Choosing the right SBA lender is crucial to getting the best deal and a smooth application experience. Whether you go with a big bank like JPMorgan Chase or a specialized lender like Live Oak Bank, make sure to shop around, prepare your documents, and understand your options.