SOS Capital Review

About SOS Capital

SOS Capital, an Alternative Finance provider, was founded in 2014 with a mission to address the financial constraints faced by small businesses seeking funding. This New York-based company has successfully helped businesses across all 50 states, offering faster and more reliable funding alternatives compared to traditional financing sources.

Utilizing industry-leading technology, SOS Capital provides a consultative approach, allowing small business owners to access the desired capital with a seamless and tailored process. Understanding the nuances of the applicant's present cash flow and financial health allows SOS Capital to provide targeted and relevant funding options.

Key Features

1. Industry Veterans at the Helm. Founded by industry veterans, SOS Capital brings a wealth of experience to the table, ensuring that small business owners benefit from the insights and expertise of seasoned professionals.

2. No Interference in Business Operations. With a belief in the autonomy of business owners, SOS Capital refrains from interfering in the day-to-day operations of the businesses it funds. Clients have the freedom to utilize the capital as they see fit.

3. Flexible Use of Capital. SOS Capital imposes no restrictions on the use of funds. Whether for expansion, inventory, or operational needs, small businesses have the flexibility to allocate capital where it's needed most.

4. Client-Centric Support. SOS Capital prides itself on customer service, accommodating the diverse needs and requirements of its clients. The customer-centric approach ensures that businesses receive the SOS Team support, tailored to their unique circumstances.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Reliability

SOS Capital has garnered a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness, solidified by its impressive credentials and positive reviews from satisfied clients. The company's commitment to transparency and client satisfaction is reflected in its Trustpilot rating of 4.9 stars out of 198 total reviews. This exceptional rating on a widely recognized review platform underscores the consistent and positive experiences of businesses that have engaged with SOS Capital for their financing needs.

How to Apply for a SOS Capital Loan?

1. Complete the Simple Application. Start by filling out the easy-to-navigate online application on the SOS Capital website. The application form typically requests basic information about your business and ownership details. There is no application fee, making it accessible for businesses exploring funding options.

2. Upload Statements or Connect to Your Bank. After completing the application, you'll need to provide supporting documents. SOS Capital allows you to either upload the three most recent months of your business bank statements or connect your bank directly using Plaid, a read-only bank verification tool. This step helps the underwriting team evaluate your business's financial health.

3. Undergo the Underwriting Process. Once the application and supporting documents are submitted, SOS Capital's underwriting team swings into action. They assess various factors, including your business's cash flow, industry, length of time in operation, and personal credit score, using a proprietary scoring model. The tailored underwriting approach aims to maximize approval chances.

4. Receive Same-Day Approval. SOS Capital's efficient process often leads to same-day approvals. Within six hours of submission, you will be informed of the underwriting decision. This swift turnaround time is a testament to the company's commitment to providing timely financial solutions.

5. Review and Sign Contracts. Upon approval, SOS Capital generates contracts, which are then sent to you via an e-sign link. Take the time to review the terms and conditions carefully. Once you're satisfied, electronically sign the agreements.

6. Finalize Funding and Confirm Wire Instructions. After signing the contracts, an underwriter from SOS Capital will contact you to finalize the funding details and confirm wire instructions. This step ensures a smooth and transparent process from approval to disbursement.

7. Access Funds Within 24 Hours. Thanks to SOS Capital's efficient procedures, funds can be wired directly to your business account within 24 hours of file submission. This quick turnaround time empowers small business owners to address their financial needs promptly.

Conditions and Requirements

Conditions

1. Flexible Use of Funds. SOS Capital distinguishes itself by providing businesses with the flexibility to utilize funds as needed. There are no restrictions on the purpose of the capital, allowing entrepreneurs to allocate resources based on their specific business priorities.

2. Generous Funding Range. Small businesses can access a substantial funding range with SOS Capital, ranging from $25,000 to $10,000,000. This broad spectrum caters to various financial needs, accommodating both modest enterprises and those with ambitious growth plans.

3. Transparent Process. Transparency is a cornerstone of SOS Capital's operations. The company maintains clear communication throughout the funding process, ensuring clients are well informed at every stage – from application and approval to the final disbursement of funds.

4. Tailored Underwriting Approach. SOS Capital employs a tailored underwriting approach, evaluating each application on a case-by-case basis. Factors considered include business cash flow, industry, length of time in operation, and personal credit score. This personalized strategy enhances the likelihood of approval.

5. No Interference in Business Operations. Entrepreneurs benefit from SOS Capital's hands-off approach, allowing them to maintain full control over their daily business operations. The company refrains from interfering in the day-to-day running of businesses funded through its platform.

6. Automatic ACH Pulls for Repayments. To facilitate convenient and timely repayments, SOS Capital sets up automatic ACH (Automated Clearing House) pulls for both weekly and daily payment schedules. This automated process adds efficiency to the repayment structure.

7. No Pre-payment Penalties. SOS Capital offers the advantage of no pre-payment penalties. This means businesses can repay their loans ahead of schedule without incurring additional fees, providing financial flexibility and potential cost savings.

Requirements

1. Personal Credit Score of 600 or Above. SOS Capital typically works with businesses whose owners have a personal credit score of 600 or above. This requirement ensures a certain level of financial stability for borrowers.

2. Minimum 51% Ownership. To qualify for financing with SOS Capital, businesses need to have a minimum of 51% ownership. This ownership threshold is a standard criterion in the application process.

3. Business Bank Statements. Borrowers are required to provide the three most recent months of their business bank statements as part of the application process. This documentation helps the underwriting team assess the financial health of the business.

4. Application Submission. The application process involves filling out a simple online form on the SOS Capital website. This step initiates the underwriting process and provides the necessary details for the evaluation of the loan request.

5. Responsive to Additional Document Requests. In some cases, SOS Capital may request additional documents for a more comprehensive assessment. Being responsive to such requests is integral to expediting the underwriting process.

Ways to Receive the Money

1. Wire Transfer. Once the underwriting process is complete and the loan is approved, SOS Capital initiates the disbursement of funds through a wire transfer. This electronic transfer method ensures the swift and secure delivery of funds directly to the business's designated bank account.

2. Direct Deposit. Businesses have the option of receiving funds through direct deposit into their business bank account. This method eliminates the need for physical checks and accelerates the accessibility of funds, providing a seamless and efficient way to access the approved capital.

3. Automated Clearing House (ACH) Transfer. SOS Capital facilitates automated ACH transfers for repayment purposes and can also leverage this electronic transfer system for fund disbursement. ACH transfers provide a reliable and automated way to transfer funds between bank accounts, ensuring both security and efficiency.

Products

Term Loans (from $25,000 to $10,000,000). SOS Capital provides term loans, which are lump sums of money that businesses can access to support various financial needs. These loans come with a predetermined repayment schedule, providing stability and predictability for businesses planning their financial commitments.

Other Loans

• Best Business Loans

Reasons for Getting Rejected for a SOS Capital Loan

1. Low Credit Score. One of the primary factors SOS Capital considers is the personal credit score of the business owner. A credit score below the company's threshold (typically 600 or above) may lead to a rejection, as it is often indicative of a higher risk for the lender.

2. Insufficient Business Cash Flow. SOS Capital assesses the cash flow of a business to determine its ability to meet repayment obligations. If the underwriting team identifies inconsistent or insufficient cash flow, it may result in a rejection, as it poses a risk to the successful repayment of the loan.

3. Short Time in Business. Businesses that have been in operation for a very short period may face challenges in securing funding. SOS Capital often looks for a track record of stability and success, and a relatively short time in business might be a reason for rejection.

4. High Industry Risk. Certain industries are perceived as riskier than others. If a business operates in an industry with a high level of risk, SOS Capital may be more cautious in approving a loan, as the potential for financial instability may be greater.

5. Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation. Providing accurate and complete documentation is crucial during the application process. Incomplete or inaccurate information can lead to delays and may contribute to the rejection of the loan application.

6. Excessive Outstanding Debt. High levels of existing debt can affect a business's capacity to take on additional financial obligations. SOS Capital may reject a loan application if the business is deemed to have an unsustainable debt load.

7. Inadequate Collateral. While SOS Capital often focuses on future receivables rather than traditional collateral, some form of security may still be considered. If a business lacks adequate collateral, it may impact the lender's confidence in the ability to recover funds in case of default.

How to Repay a SOS Capital Loan?

1. Understand the Repayment Terms. The first step is to thoroughly understand the terms of the loan. This includes the amount borrowed, the interest rate, the repayment schedule, and any other pertinent details. These terms are typically outlined in the loan agreement.

2. Automatic ACH Pulls. SOS Capital typically sets up automatic ACH (Automated Clearing House) pulls for repayments. ACH is an electronic funds transfer system that allows automatic deductions from the business's bank account. This automated process ensures timely and consistent repayments.

3. Weekly or Daily Payments. Depending on the agreed-upon terms, businesses may have either weekly or daily repayment schedules. This frequency is often tied to the business's revenue cycle, to align repayments with the natural cash flow of the company.

4. Maintain Sufficient Funds. It's essential to maintain sufficient funds in the business bank account to cover the scheduled repayments. Insufficient funds may result in additional fees and could negatively impact the business's relationship with SOS Capital.

5. No Pre-payment Penalties. SOS Capital does not impose pre-payment penalties. If a business is in a position to repay the loan before the maturity date, it can do so without incurring additional costs. This flexibility provides businesses with the option to settle their obligations ahead of schedule.

6. Communication with SOS Capital. If there are any challenges or changes in the business's financial situation that may impact the ability to make repayments, it's crucial to communicate with SOS Capital promptly. Open communication allows for potential solutions and prevents unnecessary complications.

7. Regularly Check the ISO Portal (for Partners). For Sales Partners working with SOS Capital, regularly checking the ISO Portal can provide insights into the status of the portfolio and submissions. This portal offers a comprehensive view of deals, allowing partners to track progress and monitor the performance of their portfolios.

Alternatives

Credibly stands out for its swift working capital loans, providing funding in under 24 hours, catering to urgent needs such as payroll or inventory expenses. Even with a minimum credit score requirement of 500, Credibly may be open to considering applicants with a less-than-perfect credit history, given a healthy annual revenue. Beyond working capital loans and merchant cash advances, Credibly collaborates with lenders offering a variety of financing options, including business lines of credit, equipment financing, SBA loans, and invoice factoring, providing a comprehensive suite of solutions for small businesses.

Taycor Financial distinguishes itself by offering equipment loans at affordable rates and flexible terms, with the added benefit of no prepayment penalties. The use of the equipment as collateral makes these loans accessible to various business owners, including startups or those with lower revenues. Furthermore, Taycor Financial's accommodating minimum required credit score makes it a potential choice for individuals seeking equipment loans despite having a less-than-perfect credit history.

For quick startup business loans, Fundbox provides a business line of credit that extends up to $150,000. With a relatively accessible qualification threshold for new companies—requiring six months of operation and at least $100,000 in annual revenue—Fundbox allows businesses to withdraw funds as needed, with interest payments applicable only to the utilized amount. Upgrading to Fundbox Plus offers additional benefits, including potential fee discounts of up to 20%.

Fora Financial addresses the need for bad credit business loans by considering credit scores as low as 500, eliminating the requirement for collateral. Businesses facing credit challenges could secure funds ranging up to $1,500,000 within 24 to 72 hours after approval, showcasing Fora Financial's commitment to providing accessible and timely financial solutions to businesses with less-than-ideal credit profiles.

Loans like SOS Capital

OnDeck

OnDeck stands out as an excellent choice for short-term business loans, offering the flexibility of borrowing substantial amounts, even for businesses with a minimum credit score. What makes OnDeck particularly attractive is its ability to provide funds swiftly, with same-day approval and disbursement for qualifying applicants. Moreover, OnDeck emphasizes the opportunity to build and strengthen business credit by consistently making on-time payments. The loan terms range from 18 to 24 months, with loan amounts spanning from $5,000 to $250,000. While the starting interest rate is 35.40% for a portion of customers, the accessibility and speed of funding make OnDeck a notable player in the short-term business loan landscape.

Funding Circle

Funding Circle distinguishes itself in the realm of long-term business loans by offering competitive rates, extended repayment terms, and a lack of prepayment penalties. This lending option caters to businesses seeking larger loan amounts, ranging from $25,000 to $500,000, with a reasonable starting interest rate of 11.29%. Beyond financial support, Funding Circle prioritizes efficiency, enabling businesses to access funds in as little as two business days. Notably, Funding Circle also showcases its commitment to diversity by providing funding options specifically tailored for women-owned businesses and minority entrepreneurs. The loan terms extend from 6 to 84 months, making Funding Circle a favorable choice for businesses with a more extended financial horizon.

Credibly

Credibly positions itself as a reliable source for working capital loans, particularly for businesses requiring quick funding to address immediate operational needs like payroll or inventory expenses. Notably, Credibly's working capital loans boast a rapid approval process, often providing funds in less than 24 hours. The lender exhibits flexibility by considering applicants with a minimum credit score of 500 and a willingness to look beyond a less-than-perfect credit history, provided there is a healthy annual revenue. Beyond working capital loans, Credibly collaborates with a network of lenders to offer a diverse range of financing options, including merchant cash advances, business lines of credit, equipment financing, SBA loans, and invoice factoring.

Fundbox

For startups in need of swift financing, Fundbox presents an appealing option with its business line of credit, offering up to $150,000. What sets Fundbox apart is its relatively lenient eligibility criteria, allowing new companies to qualify after just six months of operation and a minimum annual revenue of $100,000. The business line of credit provides the flexibility to withdraw funds as needed, and businesses only pay interest on the amount utilized. Additionally, Fundbox offers perks such as up to 20% off fees through its Fundbox Plus upgrade. With competitive starting interest rates ranging from 4.66% for 3-month terms to 8.99% for 6-month terms, Fundbox addresses the financial needs of emerging businesses seeking quick and accessible startup loans.

Editorial Opinion

Important

How to Choose a Lender

1. Make sure to confirm whether the lender is licensed to operate in your state. You can verify this information with your state regulator or attorney general.

2. Check if the lender is a member of a reputable association, such as the Community Financial Services Association of America. Membership in such organizations may provide an extra level of reliability.

3. Carefully review all the terms and conditions of your payday loan contract.

4. Thoroughly examine the interest rates on payday loans and ensure that your contract includes a detailed breakdown of the total cost of the loan.

5. Take advantage of your right of rescission. Usually, you can rescind the loan within three days after signing the agreement. Alternatively, there is typically a "cooling-off" period, which allows you several days to thoroughly review the contract before making an informed decision to enter into a consumer loan agreement based on the terms specified by the lender.

6. Choosing a payday lender is a significant decision that demands careful consideration and a good understanding of how such organizations operate.

Methodology

At Finanso, we've carried out a comprehensive analysis of over 50 business lenders, assessing them based on 35 different parameters across six key categories: accessibility of loans, customer relations, quality of service, interest rates, and transparency of conditions.

In each category, we carefully considered the most critical factors in selecting a lender. These factors include the interest rates, available loan amounts, minimum credit score, minimum income, application fees, and the speed at which funds are transferred.

At Finanso, we highly value our users, which is why we also focus on the quality of customer service, user reviews, and additional features that can aid our users in making a well-informed decision.

Our ultimate goal is to provide insightful recommendations and expert advice to assist you in selecting a lender that best caters to your specific needs.

Additional Resources

• GoKapital Account Review
• How to Apply for GoKapital Loan
• How to PayOff GoKapital Loan
• GoKapital Mobile Apps
• GoKapital Reviews

Sources

• SOS Capital
• Frequently Asked Questions