Most lenders ask for your accounts, recent business bank statements, a cash flow forecast and a clear explanation of what the money is for. The exact list depends on the lender and the type of finance, and your advisor will tell you what's needed for your case.
What most lenders ask for
- Accounts: your latest filed accounts, or up-to-date management accounts.
- Business bank statements: recent statements, often for the last six months.
- A cash flow forecast showing how the business will repay.
- Your use of funds: what the money is for, in concrete terms. A business plan helps for larger or newer facilities.
- Directors' details: ID and address history.
- Existing borrowing: what you already owe, and to whom.
Sometimes needed
- Asset details for secured lending or asset finance, such as valuations or equipment quotes.
- Your debtor ledger for invoice finance.
- Subsidy history for a Growth Guarantee Scheme facility: details of other public support received in the last three years. See Am I eligible for the Growth Guarantee Scheme?.
- Group information if your business is part of a group.
Get it ready early
Having these to hand is one of the biggest things that shortens the process. See How long does a business growth loan take?.
Last reviewed: 8 October 2026