Whether you’re an entrepreneur planning to start a business, a current business owner looking to expand, or somewhere in between, you’ll need funding. That’s where business loans come into play.

How do you get a loan? The Small Business Administration (SBA) is a great place for entrepreneurs and small business owners to start. The SBA offers loan programs and can help provide resources, support, and funding for small business owners. Certain businesses, such as women-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned, and others, can look to the SBA for resources, too.

Another essential first step is to contact banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Before choosing a lender, speak with several financial institutions and brokers. Compare their offerings, ask what loan type is best for you, and determine which lender has the best interest rates, term financing, and conditions that meet your business’s needs and long-term goals. Online lenders may offer higher rates than banks and credit unions.

Different types of small business loans are available, like traditional term loans, business lines of credit, commercial real estate loans, SBA loans, and more.

What do you need to qualify and apply for a business loan? Every loan differs, and its application requirements may depend on your unique business. Before getting started with your loan application, review the criteria.

According to NerdWallet, most loan applications will require you to provide information about your business’s annual revenue and current debts, how many years you’ve been in business (it’s okay if your business is just getting started!), your business industry and size, and your personal and business credit scores.

Several different documents may also be required to submit, like a business plan, a loan proposal, and other financial documents and records.

How can you get a reasonable rate on your business loan? The most common tip to secure a great rate on a loan is to have a higher credit score (both your personal and business credit scores). In addition, a lender may ask you to pledge collateral if you default on the loan or require a personal guarantee. If you can pledge collateral, this could demonstrate to lenders that you are a serious borrower. This could help increase your chances of securing a loan at a lower rate.

If your business has not been operating for a long time or is just getting off the ground, your business plan and future financial projections will play a vital role in your application. Lenders will look at these documents heavily and may use them to determine your loan rate. Have a solid plan in place.

How can you ensure you find a lender you can trust? As a small business owner or an entrepreneur just getting started, choosing a lender for financing is a crucial part of your business’s story. Before deciding on a lender, do your research. Ask for references, preferably from other small businesses or startups, and ask about their experience working with the lender.

When talking with lenders, look for the BBB Seal. BBB Accredited Businesses are vetted and adhere to BBB’s Standards for Trust and will operate with your best interests in mind.

Find more tips on finance and running all aspects of your business at BBB’s BizHQ. For new business owners, check out BBB’s New Business HQ.