When it comes to starting or growing a small business, access to capital is critical. One of the most popular options for small business owners is a business loan for MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises). These loans, provided by banks and financial institutions, can be used for a variety of purposes, including working capital, equipment purchases, and expansion. However, you need a list of documents to get a MSME business loan related to KYC, identity proof, proof of business, financials, etc. The documents required for business loans are usually consistent with banks and NBFCs, though there might be specific documentation for specific types of loans.The process of preparing the required documents for MSME loan can seem daunting, but it’s essential to ensure that your application is processed quickly and smoothly. Here in this guide, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to efficiently prepare the necessary documents for an MSME business loan, including details on the basic documents for an MSME loan, financial documentation, and tips for making your application as strong as possible, thereby ensuring that you secure the funding you need to grow your business.
What is a MSME business loan?
An MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) business loan is a type of loan specifically designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It is an important credit option for businesses to access the capital they need to grow and expand.
With the right documents in order, businesses can take advantage of this opportunity to secure the funding they need to thrive.
What all documents are required for an MSME loan?
Basic documentation requirements
To apply for an MSME loan, you’ll need to have certain basic documents in order. These include:
- Proof of identity and address: This could be your PAN Card, Voter ID, Aadhaar card, or passport.
- Proof of business existence and operations: This could include your GST registration certificate or a certificate of incorporation.
- Financial statements: You’ll need to provide current and historical financial statements, including a profit and loss statement and a balance sheet (usually previous 2-3 years)
Financial documentation requirements
In addition to the basic documentation, you’ll also need to provide financial documentation as part of your loan application. These include:
- Credit score and CIBIL report: MSME loans require a CIBIL score document as your CIBIL score is a measure of your creditworthiness and is used by lenders to evaluate your loan application. A score of 750 or higher is generally considered good.
- Income Tax Returns (ITR): You’ll need to provide your ITRs for the past two or three years, depending on the lender’s requirements.
- GST registration and returns: If your business is registered for GST, you’ll need to provide your GST returns for the past six months.
- Bank statements: You’ll need to provide your bank statements for the past six to twelve months, which will help the lender evaluate your cash flow and credit history.
- Collateral documents: If you’re using collateral to secure your loan, you’ll need to provide documents such as property papers, insurance papers, and market value certificates.
Additional requirements for specific types of loans
In addition to the basic and financial documentation requirements, there may be additional requirements for specific types of MSME loans. For example:
- Working capital loans: These loans are used to fund day-to-day operations and require details on the business, including information on the nature of the business, the market, and the competition. Apart from this, lenders may require additional financial statements such as profit and loss statements, and details of inventory and receivables. Most banks offer working capital loans for small amount without collateral, making it often convenient for MSMEs to avail it when required.
- Term loans: These loans are used for long-term investments, such as buying equipment, and typically require detailed project reports, including the cost of the equipment, the source of the funding, and the repayment schedule.
- Collateral-free loans: These loans do not require collateral and typically require details on the business’s financial health and profitability. These loans are usually offered on the basis of the borrower’s creditworthiness, and required further details on the borrower’s credit score, debt records, previous loans etc.
- Equipment financing: For equipment financing, lenders may require additional documentation such as quotes for the equipment being financed and a detailed equipment list.
- Start-up loans: For start-up loans, lenders may require a detailed business plan, a projected cash flow statement, and a projected income statement.
- Government-backed loans: For government-backed loans, such as MSME loans, there may be additional requirements such as registration with the relevant government scheme, proof of GST compliance, and compliance with other government regulations.
- Business continuation loans: For business continuation loans, lenders may require additional documentation such as a detailed succession plan and proof of ownership transfer.
- Technology upgradation loans: For technology upgradation loans, lenders may require additional documentation such as a detailed project report, a quotation for the proposed technology, and a certificate of technical feasibility.
- Microfinance loans: For microfinance loans, lenders may require additional documentation such as a detailed project report, and proof of income, such as bank statements or pay stubs.
By understanding all these documentation requirements for an MSME loan, you can ensure that your application is complete and accurate. Additionally, it’s important to note that, GST registration is mandatory for an MSME loan, and an ITR document is also a must-have for an MSME loan.
Note- These are some examples of additional requirements for specific types of MSME loans. It’s always a good idea to research the specific requirements of the type of loan you’re applying for and gather all the necessary documents in advance. Additionally, it’s also important to note that various banks, NBFCs and other financial institutions have different criteria and documentation requirements for MSME loans, so it’s best to enquire and get all the information before applying.
Also, considering that in most cases, the loan application process is carried out online, it is recommended to have all business loan eligibility documents in PDF format (or .png or .jpeg as required) for easy upload.
Key things to consider while preparing documents for an MSME business loan
- Gather all necessary documents: This includes basic identification and financial documents such as PAN card, GST registration certificate, GST returns, Income Tax returns, bank statements, Udyam registration certificate, etc.
- Keep your financial records updated: Lenders will want to see detailed financial information about your business, such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
- Maintain a good credit score: A good credit score is an important factor in getting approved for a loan, so ensure to pay bills on time and keep debt levels low.
- Have a clear and detailed business plan: Lenders will want to see how you plan to use the loan, how you plan to repay it, and how the loan will benefit your business.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your business: Lenders will want to know as much as possible about your business history, operations, management, and industry.
- Get professional help if needed: If you need clarification on the loan application process or have doubts, consider seeking help from an accountant, lawyer, or financial advisor.
- Keep all important certifications and licences ready: Depending on the nature of your business, you may be required to have certain licences and certifications on hand.
- Have GST registration ready: As per recent regulations, GST registration is mandatory for MSME loans, so make sure you have it ready before applying.
- Be honest and transparent: Be truthful and transparent throughout the process, and if you have any doubts or concerns, ask the lender for clarification.
Remember to always stay updated with the latest information and regulations to ensure you have all the necessary documents and information.
