Bridge Loan Definition

Learn more about what a Bridge Loan is in business.

Ready to start your dream business? Check the availability of your new company name to get started.

Starts at $49 + state fees and only takes 5-10 minutes

Excellent 4.7 out of 5 stars 13,175 reviews Trustpilot logo
Bridge Loan definition

A business owner might need the bridge loan definition in two distinct situations: funding a purchase or development of real estate or financing business obligations between capital funding rounds. The meaning of a bridge loan is a short-term, accessible financing option with higher interest rates.

Start Your Company

What is a bridge loan?

According to the bridge loan business definition, this type of financing is defined by its use as funding for immediate purchases. Commercial bridge loans can “bridge the gap” between a business’s current financing needs and a traditional, long-term financing solution. A bridge loan can be a fast, convenient way for a business to access funds. You should expect to pay higher interest rates in exchange for these short-term loans. Therefore, it’s a good idea to pay this kind of loan off quickly because they often don’t have repayment penalties.

Uses for Bridge Loans

Entrepreneurs might use a bridge loan in these examples:

While bridge loans are one way to get cash fast, a business owner who wants to apply for a bridge loan needs excellent credit, a low debt-to-income ratio, and equity of at least 20%. Additionally, a lender offering a bridge loan typically requires collateral to secure the loan. Because repayment on these loans is due quickly, most entrepreneurs expect to have a windfall or permanent financing before the bridge loan is due.

Need help managing finances?

ZenBusiness Money makes it easy.

START NOW

Bridge Loan Benefits

Bridge loans can provide quick, short-term financing to keep your business running or growing. The advantages of the bridge loan include: 

A bridge loan is an excellent option if you need a quick influx of cash to maintain operations or make a purchase.

What Are Bridge Loan Considerations I Need to Know?

In exchange for the bridge loan’s convenience, they typically have relatively short terms, high interest rates, and large origination fees. The other disadvantages of a bridge loan include:

While there is a right time for a small business to use a bridge loan, they’re not for everyone. It’s a good idea to consult your attorney or financial advisor before making any decisions that can affect your credit.

Other Names for a Bridge Loan

Other terms that match the definition of a bridge loan include:

No matter the term you use, a loan falls into this category if you use it for an immediate purchase and expect to repay the debt quickly. 

Thinking of starting a business?

We can help you form it.

START NOW

Summary

A bridge loan is a short-term, high-interest loan meant to finance an immediate purchase or fill a financing gap. While bridge loans can be an easy way to get cash quickly, they come with risks and costs unique to this type of loan.

We Can Help

Our team of business experts is here to help you understand your compliance requirements, like the bridge loan definition. Whether you run a sole proprietorship, limited liability company, or corporation, we have a product or service for you. Let us handle the details of taxes, annual reports, and legal entity formation with our Worry-Free Compliance Service. We aim to get you up and running quickly and back to focusing on your business.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.

Start New Company Today

Ready to get started?

This is it.

Create Your LLC in Minutes

Start Your LLC Today