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Best Business Lines Of Credit Of 2026: Compare Top Lenders

Back to libraryEmily McNutt, Colin Beresford, Jordan TarverApr 25, 2026
Best Business Lines Of Credit Of 2026: Compare Top Lenders

A business line of credit is, in many cases, an essential part of managing your business’s cash flow, allowing you to cover unexpected expenses and invest in growth opportunities. But with so many options to consider and related factors to weigh, how do you choose the right business line of credit to cover your ongoing financial needs?

To find the best business lines of credit of 2026, our team of researchers compared 18 lenders and 17 data points. Loan costs, such as interest rates and fees, carried the most weight in each lender’s score and ranking. The second most important factor was our Consumer Sentiment Index, which gauges borrower satisfaction in areas such as application processes and funding speed. Read past the rankings for tips to learn how to choose among our best business line of credit lenders. 

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Advertisers do not and cannot influence our ratings. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the business loans methodology for the ratings below.

  • 18 lenders researched
  • 17 data points evaluated
  • Unbiased editorial team

Compare the Best Business Lines Of Credit of 2026

COMPANYFORBES ADVISOR RATINGLOAN AMOUNTSAPRLEARN MORE
5.0
$1,000 to $250,000
Interest rates start at 4.66%
On Fundbox’s Website
4.9
Up to $750,000
Starting at 6.25%
Via Forbes Advisor
4.6
$2,000 to $250,000
N/A
Via Forbes Advisor
4.5
$5,000 to $400,000
Varies by loan
Via Ondeck’s Website
4.3
$5,000 to $250,000
Simple interest starts at 7.8%
On Bluevine’s Website
4.0
$20,000 to $100,000
Variable, based on the Prime Rate
Via Forbes Advisor
3.9
$10,000 to $3 million
Prime + 1.75% to prime + 9.75%
Via Forbes Advisor

Best Business Lines Of Credit: A Closer Look

Best for Short Terms

Fundbox

5.0

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Loan amounts

$1,000 to $250,000

APR range

Interest rates start at 4.66%

Minimum Credit Score

600

Learn More Arrow

On Fundbox’s Website

$1,000 to $250,000

Interest rates start at 4.66%

600

Editor’s Take

Fundbox is an online lender that offers business lines of credit with accessible borrowing requirements and fast approval decisions.

Why We Like It

Fundbox’s line of credit comes with terms of 12 or 24 weeks, which is shorter than many competitors. The lender also sets low eligibility requirements, including three months in business and annual revenue of $30,000.

Why We Don’t Like It

Although the lender does clearly disclose requirements, it isn’t transparent about loan costs.

Who It’s Best For

Fundbox’s business line of credit is best for businesses looking for short credit line terms or that can’t qualify elsewhere.

Pros & Cons
  • Flexible eligibility criteria
  • Small and large loan amounts
  • Short repayment terms of 12, 24, 52, or 76 weeks

Loan Details

  • Minimum credit score: 600
  • Minimum annual revenue: $30,000
  • Minimum time in business: three months

Funding Speed

Funds may arrive within two business days of requesting a credit line draw.

Best for Large Amounts

Kapitus

4.9

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Loan amounts

Up to $750,000

APR range

Starting at 6.25%

Minimum Credit Score

650

Get Matched Now Arrow

Via Forbes Advisor

Up to $750,000

Starting at 6.25%

650

Editor’s Take

Kapitus offers qualifying businesses up to up to $750,000 in a line of credit.

Why We Like It

Kapitus’s maximum line of credit is larger than many competitors’, making it a good option for businesses that need access to large amounts of capital. The lender also offers next-day funding.

Why We Don’t Like It

Startups may not qualify because Kapitus requires at least two years in business and an annual revenue of at least $180,000.

Who It’s Best For

Kapitus lines of credit are best for businesses looking for access to large amounts of financing.

Pros & Cons
  • Large lines of credit up to $750,000
  • Next-day funding
  • Accepts fair credit scores starting at 650
  • Interest rates and fees are not disclosed
  • Requires at least two years in business
  • Looks for a minimum annual revenue of $180,000

Details

Eligibility

  • Minimum credit score: 650
  • Time in business: 2 years
  • Minimum revenue: $180,000
  • Turnaround time: Next day

Consumer Sentiment Index

  • Overall rating: 3.9/5 — Satisfied

Based on 6,300 customer insights and reviews for the entire category.

Kapitus’s borrowers often had positive experiences with the lender, noting the quick and efficient funding process and the helpful customer service. Nonetheless, there were some customers who had concerns about the high interest rates and fees.

Disclaimer: The Consumer Sentiment Index from Forbes Advisor uses a proprietary weighting system designed by our subject matter experts. It evaluates thousands of consumer insights and reviews from leading online forums to determine customer satisfaction at scale.

Best for Transparent Costs

American Express® Business Line of Credit

4.6

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Loan amounts

$2,000 to $250,000

APR range

N/A

Minimum Credit Score

660 FICO at the time of application

Get Matched Now Arrow

Via Forbes Advisor

$2,000 to $250,000

N/A

660 FICO at the time of application

Editor’s Take

American Express Business Line of Credit offers business owners lines of credit between $2,000 to $250,000.

Why We Like It

American Express is one of several lenders that clearly discloses the cost of borrowing. It charges fees of 3% to 9% for six-month loans, 6% to 18% for 12-month loans, 9% to 27% for 18-month loans and 12% to 18% for 24-month loans.

Why We Don’t Like It

American Express may take up to three business days to fund your loan, and not all applicants are eligible for loans up to the account maximum.

Who It’s Best For

American Express Business Line of Credit is best for borrowers who want a clearly-disclosed fee structure.

Pros & Cons
  • No prepayment penalty
  • Four different repayment options
  • Offers small to large lines of credit
  • Monthly fees on unpaid balances
  • Requires personal guarantee
  • Lines of credit over $150,000 are only available to borrowers who meet additional criteria

Details

Eligibility

  • Minimum credit score: 660 FICO at the time of application*
  • Time in business: At least one year**
  • Average revenue: at least $3,000 monthly

All businesses are unique and are subject to approval and review**. The required FICO score may be higher based on your relationship with American Express, credit history and other factors.*

Turnaround time

Once application is approved, funds can take up to three business days to appear in your account, depending on your bank.

Consumer Sentiment Index

  • Overall rating: 2.6/5 – Neutral

Based on 6,300 customer insights and reviews for the entire category.

American Express Business Line of Credit received mixed reviews from borrowers. Some appreciated the reasonable rates and the ease of getting funding, but there were issues with customer service and applications being denied for unclear reasons.

Disclaimer: The Consumer Sentiment Index from Forbes Advisor uses a proprietary weighting system designed by our subject matter experts. It evaluates thousands of consumer insights and reviews from leading online forums to determine customer satisfaction at scale.

Best for Flexible Repayment Terms

Bluevine

4.3

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Loan amounts

$5,000 to $250,000

APR range

Simple interest starts at 7.8%

Minimum Credit Score

625

Learn More Arrow

On Bluevine’s Website

$5,000 to $250,000

Simple interest starts at 7.8%

625

Editor’s Take

Bluevine has funded over $14 billion in working capital and offers weekly or monthly repayment structures for its business line of credit.

Why We Like It

Bluevine offers three-, six- or 12-month repayment plans for its line of credit. Debt can be repaid weekly or monthly, depending on what your business qualifies for.

Why We Don’t Like It

Businesses in Nevada, North Dakota, and South Dakota aren’t eligible for Bluevine’s line of credit.

Who It’s Best For

Bluevine’s line of credit is best for businesses looking for fast funding and considering a range of repayment options.

Pros & Cons
  • Receive a decision within five minutes and instant funding with a Bluevine business checking account, or receive funds within 24 hours
  • Lines of credit up to $250,000
  • Low credit score requirement
  • No mobile app for its line of credit
  • Monthly revenue requirement
  • Not available to businesses in Nevada, North Dakota, South Dakota, Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories

Details

Eligibility

Eligibility varies on the specific program a business owner chooses.

Weekly plan

  • Minimum credit score: 625
  • Time in business: Less than one year
  • Minimum revenue: $40,000 monthly or $480,000 annually
  • Business type: Corporation or LLC
  • Bankruptcies: No past bankruptcies

Monthly plan

  • Minimum credit score: 700
  • Time in business: Three years
  • Minimum revenue: $80,000 per month or $960,000 annually
  • Business type: Corporation or LLC

Turnaround time

After you submit your application, you can receive a decision in as quickly as five minutes and instant funding with a Bluevine business checking account. Borrowers who don’t have a Bluevine business checking account can receive funds within 24 hours.

Consumer Sentiment Index

  • Overall rating: 2.4/5 — Neutral

Based on 6,300 customer insights and reviews for the entire category.

Bluevine’s borrowers reported quick application processes and funding times, but many were also disappointed with their experiences. Some customers noted that the customer service was unresponsive and that there were technical issues during the application process.

Disclaimer: The Consumer Sentiment Index from Forbes Advisor uses a proprietary weighting system designed by our subject matter experts. It evaluates thousands of consumer insights and reviews from leading online forums to determine customer satisfaction at scale.

Best for Extra Perks

PNC Unsecured Small Business Line of Credit

4.0

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Loan amounts

$20,000 to $100,000

APR range

Variable, based on the Prime Rate

Minimum Credit Score

Not disclosed

Get Matched Now Arrow

Via Forbes Advisor

$20,000 to $100,000

Variable, based on the Prime Rate

Not disclosed

Editor’s Take

PNC offers both an unsecured and secured business line of credit, which can come with an interest rate discount and overdraft protection.

Why We Like It

PNC’s borrowers can benefit from several unique perks to this lender. If your business is in a low- or moderate-income area, you could qualify for a 1% interest rate discount from PNC’s standard rates. Your line of credit can also provide overdraft protections for a PNC business checking account.

Why We Don’t Like It

PNC charges a monthly fee of annual fee of $175 on its business line of credit.

Who It’s Best For

PNC’s business line of credit is best for businesses that can utilize the lender’s unique perks.

Pros & Cons
  • Extra perks like an interest rate discount and overdraft protection
  • Both unsecured and secured line of credit options
  • Can access funds online, over the phone or via check
  • Annual fee of $175
  • Interest rates are not clearly disclosed
  • Borrowing requirements, such as minimum revenue and credit score, are not stated

Details

Eligibility

  • Minimum credit score: Not disclosed
  • Time in business: Not disclosed
  • Minimum revenue: Not disclosed
  • Turnaround time: Not disclosed

Consumer Sentiment Index

  • Overall rating: 2.4/5 — Neutral

Based on 6,300 customer insights and reviews for the entire category.

Many borrowers were disappointed with the customer service and had issues with communication, slow responses and unhelpful representatives. Many also noted technical challenges within PNC’s system, including a poor user interface and outages.

Disclaimer: The Consumer Sentiment Index from Forbes Advisor uses a proprietary weighting system designed by our subject matter experts. It evaluates thousands of consumer insights and reviews from leading online forums to determine customer satisfaction at scale.

Best for Traditional Banking

Wells Fargo Business Line of Credit

3.9

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Loan amounts

$10,000 to $3 million

APR range

Prime + 1.75% to prime + 9.75%

Minimum Credit Score

680

Get Matched Now Arrow

Via Forbes Advisor

$10,000 to $3 million

Prime + 1.75% to prime + 9.75%

680

Editor’s Take

Wells Fargo offers three different lines of credit, including one for businesses that have been in operation for over two years, another for those in operation for less than two years and a third for businesses with in annual sales.

Why We Like It

Business owners can apply for a line of credit in person. With various credit line options, the lender can tailor its financing to your business’s needs.

Why We Don’t Like It

Wells Fargo’s BusinessLine line of credit comes with a annual fee of $95 or $175.

Who It’s Best For

Wells Fargo’s business lines of credit are best for businesses that want to work with a traditional lender with physical locations.

Pros & Cons
  • Competitive APRs
  • Only requires six months in business
  • Flexible borrowing limits
  • Must be an established Wells Fargo customer to qualify
  • Annual fee of $95 or $175
  • Higher minimum credit limit than competitors

Details

Eligibility

  • Minimum credit score: 680
  • Time in business: Two years
  • Minimum revenue: Does not disclose
  • Minimum sales: $2-10 million for its Prime Line of Credit

Turnaround time

Wells Fargo does not disclose its approval and funding turnaround time.

Consumer Sentiment Index

  • Overall rating: 2.1/5 — Neutral

Based on 6,300 customer insights and reviews for the entire category.

Some borrowers said they appreciated that a line of credit is included in Wells Fargo’s offerings, while others were disappointed with the approval process and the terms and conditions, such as the personal guarantee.

Disclaimer: The Consumer Sentiment Index from Forbes Advisor uses a proprietary weighting system designed by our subject matter experts. It evaluates thousands of consumer insights and reviews from leading online forums to determine customer satisfaction at scale.

Most Popular is calculated from the number of times each affiliate product was selected by Forbes Advisor users over a six month time period.

How To Choose a Business Line of Credit

Business lines of credit offer ongoing access to a line of credit that can be borrowed against as needed and may be a good option for small businesses or larger commercial or corporate borrowers with multiple or ongoing expenses to cover. However, not all business lines of credit are the same. To find the best business line of credit for your needs, compare all features before accepting financing, including: 

  • Fees. Business line of credit fees vary between lenders. Lenders charge origination, draw, maintenance and inactivity fees. Consider all of the costs of borrowing before accepting financing.
  • Credit limit. Your credit limit is how much you can draw from a line of credit. This limit can vary between lenders, so be sure you choose a lender that offers a credit limit that will cover all of your expenses.
  • Interest rates. Interest on a line of credit starts accumulating once you draw from the credit line. Interest rates vary between lenders, so shopping around can help you find the lowest business line of credit rates. 
  • Draw periods. The draw period is the time you have to borrow from your line of credit. Once you know how long you’ll need to cover expenses with your credit line, determine the draw period you’ll need and the lender that will offer it to your business.
  • Repayment periods. Repayment periods function similarly to the repayment term for a traditional loan. Once the repayment period starts, you’ll repay your debt, and you won’t be able to borrow any more from your line of credit. Repayment periods vary by lender, so be sure your lender offers terms that work for your business.
  • Collateral. Some business lines of credit require collateral, such as business assets, to qualify for financing. Depending on your desired credit limit and terms, you may need to consider if you have sufficient collateral to back a line of credit.
Pro Tip

Pros and Cons of Business Lines of Credit 

Before accepting a business line of credit, consider the pros and cons of this kind of financing.

PROSCONS
Can be drawn from as needed
May have high rates and short repayment terms
Can borrow exactly as much as you need
Various fees can add to the cost of borrowing
Can be used for any legal business-related expense
May require collateral

Types of Business Lines of Credit

There are four common types of business lines of credit: secured, unsecured, revolving and nonrevolving.

Secured Business Lines of Credit

Unsecured Business Lines of Credit

Revolving and Nonrevolving Business Lines of Credit

How To Get a Business Line of Credit

Although each business line of credit lender may have a different application process, the steps are often similar. Here’s how to get a line of credit to maintain a healthy level of working capital, scale operations or otherwise support your business: 

  1. Check your credit. Before applying for a business line of credit, check your personal and business credit scores. Ensure there are no errors on your credit reports, and use this information to help understand which lenders may work with you. If your business has bad credit, research online lenders, which often offer more flexible lending criteria.
  2. Estimate financial need. As you consider which lender to work with, determine how much funding your business will need. If you have ongoing financial needs, a line of credit is likely the best fit. Each lender has different minimum and maximum credit amounts, so use your estimate to help determine which lender may offer you financing.
  3. Collateral. Opting for a secured business line of credit will often mean you’ll have access to lower interest rates and higher credit limits. To qualify for a secured credit line, you’ll need collateral with enough value in your possession.
  4. Shop around. Each lender sets different borrower requirements, including time in business, minimum revenue, minimum credit score and industry type. Find lenders where you meet the minimum eligibility requirements. If possible, prequalify to see the rates and terms you may be offered. This doesn’t impact your credit score. 
  5. Prepare documentation and apply. Business loan lenders can require a range of documentation when you apply, including a business license, tax returns, bank statements, a business plan, and profit and loss statement. Once you’ve gathered the necessary information, apply for your credit line. 
  6. Await a decision. Some lenders may make a decision within hours of an application, while others may take weeks. Watch for any communication from your potential lender in case more information is needed. 

Is a Line of Credit Right for Your Business?

A business line of credit can be an effective source of business financing, but it may not be right for every business—or every financial goal.

If your business has ongoing and unpredictable expenses, a line of credit may be the best financing option, as it allows you to draw from it as needed. However, if your business needs to cover a one-time expense, such as purchasing equipment, a term loan will likely be a better option due to its lower cost.

Term loans are just one business financing alternative to lines of credit. Considering all of your options can help you find the best financing option for your business.

Alternatives to Consider

Before accepting any financing, consider a few popular alternatives to business lines of credit:

  • Term loans. A term loan can be a better funding option if your business only needs a one-time lump sum. Small business loans can come with more predictable payments compared to lines of credit, and in some cases, they help prevent your business from over-borrowing. 
  • Business credit cards. While a line of credit and a business credit card are both revolving credit lines, they have different uses. If your business needs to borrow money for many small purchases, a business credit card can be a more efficient and sometimes cheaper option due to utilization fees on lines of credit. 
  • Merchant cash advances. For businesses that may not qualify for a line of credit and generate revenue through frequent credit card sales, a merchant cash advance may be a good option. This form of financing allows a business to borrow against future sales, and that debt is then repaid as a portion of those sales. 
  • Invoice factoring. Invoice factoring can be a good option for businesses with outstanding invoices that may not qualify for other financing. With invoice factoring, a lender will give you a portion of our outstanding invoices, which they will collect. Once those invoices are paid, your business will receive the rest of the invoice, minus fees. 
  • Equipment financing. Equipment financing is a way to acquire new equipment for your business. This financing functions as secured loans, with the equipment your business is purchasing serving as the collateral. 
  • Savings. If you have the savings to cover your financial needs, this can be a more cost-effective way to cover expenses. 

Methodology

We reviewed 18 popular lenders based on 17 data points in the categories of loan details, loan costs, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and the application process. We chose the best lenders based on the weighting assigned to each category:

  • Loan cost. 35%
  • Consumer Sentiment Index. 30%
  • Loan details. 20%
  • Application process. 10%
  • Eligibility and accessibility. 5%

Within each major category, we also considered several characteristics, including available loan amounts, repayment terms and applicable fees. We also looked at minimum credit score and time in business requirements and the geographic availability of the lender. Finally, we evaluated each provider’s customer support tools, borrower perks and features that simplify the borrowing process—like online applications and funding time.

Where appropriate, we awarded partial points depending on how well a lender met each criterion.

To learn more about how Forbes Advisor rates lenders, and our editorial process, check out our Business Loans Rating & Review Methodology.

¹The required FICO score may be higher based on your relationship with American Express, credit history, and other factors. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a good interest rate for a business line of credit?

A good interest rate for a business line of credit is typically between 7% and 10%, but this depends on factors like the lender, the borrower’s creditworthiness and the borrowing limit. The most competitive interest rates are usually reserved for established businesses with strong credit scores and a longer record of financial stability.

If you plan to apply for a business line of credit, check your business and personal credit scores to evaluate your approval odds. Then, gather your business’s financial documents, including tax returns, bank statements and other relevant records. When you’re ready to apply, prequalify with several lenders before choosing the best option.

Can an LLC get a business line of credit?

An LLC can get a business line of credit if it meets the qualification requirements set by each lender. In general, business borrowers must have a strong credit history, demonstrate a minimum monthly or annual revenue and have been operating for at least six months to two years.

What is the minimum credit score for a business line of credit?

There’s no standard minimum credit score for business lines of credit, but a personal credit score of at least 700 can increase your approval odds. Lenders may also consider your business credit score, with some forms of financing requiring a score of at least 155.

Is it worth getting a business line of credit?

Getting a business line of credit can be worth it for many businesses, but it’s not always the right choice. Business lines of credit provide flexible access to funds as needed instead of in a lump sum. This means you can cover operating expenses, manage cash flow or handle unexpected costs as they arise, and only pay interest on the amount you draw against your borrowing limit.

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