Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions.
Don't see what you're looking for? Reach out and we'll get you a straight answer.
Are you a lender?+
No. Branch Capital is a loan brokerage. We don't make credit decisions or set loan terms — those come from the funding lender. Our job is to match you to the right lenders and package your file so it has the best chance of getting approved.
How much do you cost?+
Our borrower fee is 0.25% of the funded loan amount. We also receive a separate fee from the funding lender. Both are only owed upon a successful closing. If you don't fund, you owe nothing. SBA borrower fees are disclosed on SBA Form 159 as required.
How long does it take?+
Equipment and working capital deals can close in days to a couple of weeks. SBA-funded deals (most new builds, expansions, acquisitions) typically take 30–90 days from application to funding, depending on the lender and the complexity of your file.
What credit score do I need?+
It depends on the deal type and lender. For SBA 7(a), we work with lenders comfortable with scores starting around 660 — though stronger scores open up better terms. For equipment and working capital, requirements vary widely.
Do I need a franchise to work with you?+
No. We finance independent businesses, acquisitions, and commercial real estate as well. Franchise finance is our area of focus, but it's not a requirement.
What documents do I need?+
It depends on your deal type, and we tell you exactly what's needed inside the application. Common items include the Personal Financial Statement (SBA Form 413), 2–3 years of personal tax returns, 2–3 years of business tax returns, P&Ls, balance sheets, a business debt schedule (if applicable), the FDD or signed franchise agreement, and government ID.
Where can I get the Personal Financial Statement form?+
We provide a downloadable copy of SBA Form 413 inside the application's upload step. You can also request it any time before starting.
Do you have a debt schedule template?+
Yes — we provide a downloadable Store Roster & Debt Schedule template inside the application. It's pre-formatted with the fields lenders need to see.
How many lenders do you send my file to?+
Typically 3–5, all pre-qualified for your specific deal type, franchise concept (if applicable), state, and loan size. We don't blast your file to a generic list.
Will lenders see my name and details?+
Yes — lenders need full borrower information to underwrite. On your side of the platform, however, lender names are hidden from you until you choose an offer, so you compare on terms alone.
Is my information secure?+
Yes. Documents are uploaded directly to encrypted, private storage. Only you and the partners at Branch Capital can see your file, and we only share it with lenders you authorize through the agreement step.
What's an FDD and do I need one?+
The Franchise Disclosure Document is the legally required disclosure a franchisor must provide to prospective franchisees. If you're financing a franchise new build or acquisition, the lender will need the current FDD plus your signed franchise agreement or LOI.
Can you help if I've already been declined?+
Often, yes. Decline reasons matter — a credit issue at one lender may not disqualify you at another. Get in touch and we'll be straight with you about whether we can help.