Key takeaways
- Recent bank statements are the core of most small business funding decisions.
- Funders check deposits, average daily balance, negative days and existing debt payments.
- Send complete PDF statements and avoid overdrafts before applying.
Why statements come first
For most small business funding, your recent business bank statements are the core of the decision. They show what the business really earns and how it manages cash — information a credit score alone can't provide. Most providers ask for the last 3 to 4 months.
What funders check
- Total monthly deposits and the trend over recent months
- Number of deposits — many small deposits signal steady sales
- Average daily balance — how much cushion the account keeps
- Negative balance days and overdraft or NSF fees
- Recurring debits to other lenders or funders
- Large one-time deposits (transfers, loans) that aren't real revenue
How to prepare
- Send complete statements as PDFs downloaded from your bank — all pages, not screenshots
- Keep business and personal finances in separate accounts
- Avoid negative days in the months before you apply
- Be ready to explain unusual deposits or dips (seasonality, a large one-time job)
Sources
BFG Funds is not a lender. We connect businesses with independent lenders and funding providers. Amounts, rates, terms and timing are set by each provider after its own review of your business (bank statements, revenue, time in business, credit profile and more) and are not guaranteed.