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What to Do If Your Score Is Too Low
Turn loan denials into approvals by fixing your SBSS score in 90 days.
Key Points
  • Multiple loan applications hurt your credit score - each inquiry drops it 3-5 points while raising red flags with lenders
  • Follow a structured 90-day plan: fix credit errors first, then stabilize finances, then strengthen your lender profile before reapplying
  • Strategic timing matters - wait 90 days between applications so improvements show, then target lenders matched to your business profile

Getting denied for financing can feel like hitting a brick wall—especially when you don't know why or how to fix it. At SBAScore.com, we've helped hundreds of business owners turn low SBSS scores into loan approvals. Here's exactly what to do if your score isn't where it needs to be.

The Hidden Cost of Multiple Loan Declines

Many business owners make a critical mistake: they apply to multiple lenders hoping one will say yes. But each denial creates two problems:

  1. Credit Damage - Every hard inquiry knocks 3-5 points off your credit score
  2. Application Fatigue - Too many recent declines make lenders wary

"I applied to five banks before finding SBAScore.com. By then, my credit had dropped 22 points from all the inquiries—making approval even harder."

— James R., HVAC Business Owner

Step-by-Step SBSS Improvement Plan

1. Credit Cleanup (0-30 Days)
  • Get free credit reports from AnnualCreditReport.com
  • Dispute errors (34% of reports contain mistakes)
  • Pay down credit cards below 30% utilization
  • Avoid new credit applications
2. Cash Flow Stabilization (30-60 Days)
  • Build 3-6 months of operating reserves
  • Smooth out revenue spikes with retainers/subscriptions
  • Reduce discretionary spending to show stronger margins
3. Strategic Positioning (60-90 Days)
  • Add a credit tradeline (like a small business credit card)
  • Document explanations for any financial dips
  • Prepare collateral options (equipment, real estate, etc.)

How SBAScore.com Guides You to Approval

We don't just tell you your score—we give you a roadmap:

✔ Personalized Improvement Plan based on your exact weak points

✔ Lender Matching to institutions most likely to work with your profile

✔ Document Preparation so you present your business in the best light

One client increased their SBSS from 142 to 167 in just 11 weeks using our system—then secured a $425,000 SBA loan at 8.5% interest.

Building Your Approval Timeline

Timeframe Action Items Expected SBSS Boost
First 30 Days Credit cleanup, dispute errors +10-15 points
30-60 Days Build cash reserves, stabilize revenue +5-10 points
60-90 Days Add tradelines, prepare documents +5-8 points


Next Steps When You're Ready

  1. Get your current SBSS score (free at SBAScore.com)
  2. Follow your customized improvement plan
  3. Re-check your score before reapplying
  4. Get matched with your ideal lenders

Remember: A low score today doesn't mean no financing forever. With the right approach, we've seen business owners increase their SBSS by 30+ points in just one quarter. The key is taking strategic action—not just crossing your fingers on another application.