Editorial note: This review is independently researched and written by our editorial team. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or compensated by Chase for this content. Rates, terms, and products change frequently — always confirm current details directly with Chase before applying.
Chase is one of the largest banks in the U.S. and a major player in small business lending, offering a full suite of financing products backed by the stability and branch network of a national bank. Here’s an honest look at what Chase offers, who it’s a good fit for, and where it falls short.
Chase Business Loan Products
Chase Business Term Loans
Fixed-rate loans for equipment purchases, expansion, and other planned investments, with loan amounts and terms tailored to the borrower’s financial profile.
Chase Business Line of Credit (BusinessLine)
A revolving line of credit for managing cash flow, with credit limits determined by the business’s financial strength and banking relationship with Chase.
SBA Loans Through Chase
Chase is an active SBA lender, offering both SBA 7(a) and SBA 504 loans, which can offer more favorable rates and terms than Chase’s conventional products for qualifying businesses. See our full guide on [SBA loans for small businesses] for how these programs work in general.
Commercial Real Estate Loans
For businesses purchasing or refinancing commercial property, with terms suited to real estate-specific financing needs.
Chase Business Loan Requirements
While exact requirements vary by product and are determined by Chase’s underwriting, businesses applying should generally expect to need:
- Established time in business, typically 2+ years for conventional term loans and lines of credit
- Strong personal credit, generally in the 680+ range
- Solid business financials, including tax returns and financial statements
- An existing or new Chase business banking relationship, which can meaningfully strengthen an application
Chase Business Banking Relationship Benefits
One of Chase’s biggest advantages for small business owners is the ability to bundle banking and financing — businesses that already maintain a Chase business checking account often report smoother underwriting and, in some cases, more favorable terms, since Chase already has visibility into the business’s cash flow.
Pros of Chase Business Loans
- Large branch network, useful for business owners who value in-person banking relationships
- Active SBA Preferred Lender, which can speed up SBA loan processing compared to non-preferred lenders
- Full range of products under one roof: term loans, lines of credit, SBA loans, and commercial real estate financing
- Strong online and mobile banking tools, useful for managing day-to-day business finances alongside financing
Cons of Chase Business Loans
- Stricter qualification requirements than online lenders, making it a difficult fit for newer or lower-credit businesses
- Slower approval process than fintech alternatives, typically weeks rather than days
- Less transparent published rates compared to some online lenders, requiring direct application or a banker conversation to get specific pricing
- Best suited for businesses already banking with Chase or willing to establish that relationship, somewhat limiting its appeal for business owners who prefer working with multiple, unrelated financial institutions
Who Chase Business Loans Are Best For
Chase is a strong fit for established, creditworthy businesses that value the stability of a large national bank, want to consolidate business banking and financing under one relationship, and can tolerate a several-week approval timeline in exchange for competitive rates.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Businesses under 2 years old, with credit scores below the high-600s, or needing funding within days rather than weeks will likely find a better fit with an online lender — see our comparison in [best small business loans by lender] or [fintech vs. traditional bank: where is it easier to get financing].
How Chase Compares
| Factor | Chase | Typical Online Lender |
|---|---|---|
| Approval speed | 2–6 weeks | 24 hours–1 week |
| Minimum credit score | ~680+ | 600+ |
| Minimum time in business | 2+ years | 6–12 months |
| Relative rate | Lower | Higher |
| Relationship banking benefit | Yes | Rarely |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Chase business account to get a Chase business loan? It’s not always strictly required, but an existing relationship generally strengthens your application and may improve the terms offered.
Is Chase a good option for a new startup? Generally not for conventional term loans or lines of credit, given the typical 2-year time-in-business expectation — newer businesses are usually better served by an online lender or SBA microloan in the meantime.
How do Chase’s SBA loan rates compare to other SBA lenders? Since SBA loan pricing is largely standardized (Prime + a lender-set margin), rates across SBA Preferred Lenders like Chase tend to be broadly competitive with other major SBA lenders — the bigger differentiator is often processing speed and service.
Conclusion
Chase offers a solid, full-featured small business lending lineup best suited to established businesses with strong credit that value a national banking relationship and can accommodate a traditional bank’s approval timeline. If your business doesn’t yet meet that profile, it’s worth comparing against online lenders and SBA-focused alternatives before applying. For a full picture of how Chase stacks up against other major banks, see our guide on [best bank for small business financing: how to choose].