Guides & Resources

Line of Credit Approvals with Losses On Tax Returns

Matthew Elling

March 7, 2025

Line of Credit works with many different Lenders, we have the ability to approve Lines of Credit even if the owners does not show profitability.

MYTH BUSTED
Think your business needs to be profitable to get a line of credit? Not true! Even with losses under $100K, approval is possible. At Line of Credit Depot, we find lenders who say 'yes' when others say 'no.'

A common misconception is that your business must show profitability to receive a line of credit. Although banks tend to only approve credit lines for businesses that are profitable, there are in fact banks that do issue revolving credit lines to businesses that are showing losses.

Why do banks want to approve lines of credit for a business with profits?

When a bank analyses a credit application, they consider the risk of the applicant and the likelihood of repayment. Each bank has different credit requirements and risk tolerance. For example, one bank may weigh their risk analysis more heavily on an owner's FICO score, while another bank may take business industry or time in business as more important.

Why are we able to get approvals with a business showing losses?

Even though most banks require a business to show profitability, a handful of banks allow for losses. Generally, the losses on the last tax return can not be greater than $100,000. This allows for businesses to still get approved for a line of credit, even if there were reported losses.

Did your bank decline your credit request?

Apply for a Non-Committal Pre-Approval

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What to know about the losses a business reports on a tax return.

Losses that are shown on a tax return does not necessarily mean that the business is not profitable. A business tax return is not the best financial report to understand profitability, it is a report that shows the business’ tax liability. For example, depreciation which allows for the lowering of value of hard assets owned by the business is shown on a tax return. Depreciation is not a bill (expense) that a business pays cash for. So, some banks can understand that this depreciation and potential ‘losses’ on a return do not mean the business will be unable to pay their potential new debt obligations.

Why would losses not mean an auto decline for a business line of credit?

When looking for credit, I urge business owners to apply with us. LineofCreditDepot.com works with many different banks, so even though your bank may have declined your business for credit, we can look at other options. Losses do not mean an auto decline for credit, if losses are under $100,000 a business credit line is still doable. If losses exceed $100,000 and a credit line is not possible, we can look at other options like an SBA Term Loan.

Navigating the intricacies of each bank’s unique underwriting criteria is what we specialize in here at LineofCreditDepot.com

🏗️ New York Construction Company Secures $150K Line of Credit Despite $82K Loss!

🔍 The Challenge:

In early 2024, a New York-based construction company was struggling to secure financing. Despite strong cash flow and a solid client base, their 2023 tax return showed an $82,000 loss, which led to multiple rejections from traditional banks. The owner needed a line of credit to cover payroll, purchase materials, and take on new projects, but the losses on their tax return seemed like an insurmountable hurdle.

💡 How LineofCreditDepot.com Helped:

  • ✔️ Expert Guidance: We analyzed the company’s financials and identified that the reported loss was primarily due to non-cash expenses like depreciation, not actual cash flow issues.
  • ✔️ Lender Matchmaking: We connected the business with a bank that specializes in underwriting credit lines for businesses with losses under $100,000.
  • ✔️ Streamlined Process: Within weeks, the construction company was approved for a $150,000 revolving line of credit at competitive rates.

🎉 The Result:

  • Funding Secured: The construction company now has access to the capital they need to grow, even with $82,000 in reported losses.
  • Cash Flow Stability: The line of credit ensures they can cover payroll, purchase materials, and take on new projects without delay.
  • Future Growth: With the financial flexibility provided by the LOC, the company is positioned to scale and take on larger contracts.

💡 Ready to Secure Your Line of Credit?

Even with losses, approval is possible. Let us help you find the right lender.

Before you apply, check to see if you qualify.

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