Practical worksheet

Business finance application checklist

Gather the purpose, figures and records a lender may request before you apply.

Last reviewed 2 October 2026

Before you start

Requirements vary by lender and product. Share sensitive documents only through a verified, secure channel.

A complete, consistent application is easier to assess and lets you compare offers on the same basis.

Use after deciding that finance fits the business need and before submitting an application.

Gaps in records or affordability assumptions are worth resolving before comparing products.

Each prompt explains what to enter. The example is a guide, not a target for your business.

01. Purpose and amount

State exactly what the money will pay for and how you calculated the amount.

Replace a delivery van: quote $48,000 less $8,000 available cash.

02. Business identity

List structure, ABN, owners, trading history and contact details.

Company ABN and director details checked against current records.

03. Financial picture

Gather recent statements, returns, bank records, current debts and a cash forecast.

Two years of financial statements plus a 13-week forecast.

04. Security and obligations

Record proposed security, guarantees, existing charges and repayment obligations.

Equipment already financed; ask about payout and security release.

05. Compare and clarify

Record fees, repayment schedule, variable-rate risk, security and what happens if plans change.

Compare total cash out over the expected term, not only the advertised rate.

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This worksheet is general planning information. Ask a qualified accountant, tax agent or lawyer where your decision needs specialist advice.