Are you a lender or a broker/introducer, and do you charge any fees to applicants?
Short answer
Best Business Loans is not a lender. We act as an independent introducer and AI-powered matching platform that connects established UK businesses with suitable lenders and commercial finance brokers. We do not charge applicants any fees to submit an enquiry or to be introduced to a finance provider.
Who we are, what we do, and where we fit in
BestBusinessLoans.ai helps UK companies explore commercial finance options quickly and confidently. We use data-led matching and a vetted network of lenders and brokers to introduce you to providers that may be able to help. You stay in control and decide whether to proceed with any offer.
We are not a bank or direct lender, and we don’t underwrite credit. We are an introducer and information service that simplifies the search and connects you with relevant funding providers. We do not provide regulated financial advice or recommend specific products as a personal recommendation.
Our platform is designed for established businesses across sectors such as construction, manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. If you operate in transport and distribution, you may find our sector page on logistics business loans helpful. Read more here: logistics business loans.
We focus on commercial finance for trading businesses rather than property finance or start-up funding. We currently do not support start-ups, sole traders, franchises, commercial mortgages, or property investment. This helps us stay focused on areas where our network is strongest and most active.
Every lender and broker in our network applies its own criteria, processes, and pricing. Our role is to save you time, improve fit, and help you compare your options more efficiently. There is no obligation to accept any proposal you receive.
How we present information
We aim to be fair, clear and not misleading, in line with FCA guidance for financial promotions. We do not guarantee approval, lowest rates, or specific outcomes. All funding is subject to provider assessment, eligibility, and terms.
Do you charge any fees, and what costs might apply?
You will not be charged any fees by Best Business Loans to submit an enquiry, be matched, or receive introductions. There is no cost for our Quick Quote, eligibility check, or being connected with potential providers. You can walk away at any time before you enter into an agreement with a provider.
Third-party fees may apply if you proceed with a lender or broker we introduce. These costs are not set by us, and they will be disclosed to you by the relevant provider before you commit. Always review all documents and charges carefully before you sign.
Common third-party costs could include arrangement fees charged by the lender. Some brokers may charge a broker fee, typically payable only on successful drawdown. There can also be valuation or legal costs for certain asset-backed facilities.
What you pay us
You do not pay Best Business Loans any direct fee as an applicant. Enquiries and introductions via our platform are free to you. If that position changes, we will make it clear and get your consent before any charge is incurred.
What you might pay a provider
Lenders may charge an arrangement fee, interest, or early settlement fees. Brokers may charge a separate broker fee depending on the product and complexity. Any such costs are set by the relevant provider and disclosed before you proceed.
Clear disclosure comes first
We encourage you to request a full written breakdown of all costs from any provider you engage. Ask for APR, total amount repayable, fees, and any conditions. If something is unclear, request clarification in writing before you sign.
How we get paid, and how that affects your options
We may receive a commission, referral fee, or similar remuneration from lenders or brokers when we introduce an applicant who successfully completes a finance agreement. This means you do not pay us for the matching and introduction service. The commission is part of the commercial arrangements between us and the provider.
Our priority is to connect you with relevant providers that are actively lending to businesses like yours. We do not guarantee to find the cheapest rate on the market. We focus on suitability, likelihood of success, and operational fit for your needs.
Provider pricing, including interest and fees, is determined by the lender or broker. Commission arrangements may vary by provider and product. You will always have the opportunity to compare offers and make an informed choice.
Commission we may receive
Commission may be fixed or a percentage, depending on the provider’s standard model. It is only payable to us if your application completes and funds are drawn. This does not create any obligation on you to accept an offer.
Managing potential conflicts
We strive to minimise conflicts by prioritising relevance and eligibility in our matching. Where providers require, additional disclosures on commission may be provided. If you want to know if we may receive commission for a particular introduction, ask us and we will explain.
Transparency and your decision
We encourage you to compare multiple offers and assess total cost, structure, and terms. Consider how repayments align with your cash flow and risk profile. Only proceed if you are comfortable with the full picture.
What to expect from the process, checks, and timelines
Submitting a Quick Quote takes minutes, and there is no obligation to proceed. Our AI reviews your details and identifies suitable funding categories and providers. We then introduce you to lenders or brokers who may be able to help.
Providers may conduct credit checks as part of their assessment. Early-stage checks may be “soft” and not impact your credit score, but “hard” searches can appear on your file. You will be informed by the provider when a credit search is required.
Timelines vary by product and complexity. Unsecured working capital facilities can be faster, subject to underwriting and data availability. Asset-backed or multi-facility arrangements may take longer due to valuations and legal work.
Your 4-step journey
- Complete a Quick Quote with your business details and funding need.
- Our AI maps your profile to relevant options in our network.
- We introduce you to providers aligned to your sector and requirements.
- You review offers, ask questions, and decide whether to proceed.
What lenders may check
- Filed accounts, management information, bank statements, and trading history.
- Credit profile, Companies House data, director background, and security position.
- Purpose of funds, affordability, cash flow resilience, and sector dynamics.
Documents to have ready
- Last 6–12 months of business bank statements and latest filed accounts.
- Up-to-date management accounts and aged debtor/creditor reports (if relevant).
- Asset lists, equipment details, or invoice schedules for asset/invoice finance.
All funding is subject to provider criteria, affordability checks, and terms. Security may be required, including guarantees or asset charges. Read all pre-contract information carefully and seek independent advice if needed.
Our compliance promise, key takeaways, and how to start
We aim to ensure our content and introductions are fair, clear and not misleading. We align our approach with the spirit of UK guidance from the FCA and ASA. We also aim to meet Google’s policy expectations for financial services advertisers.
Best Business Loans is an independent introducer platform serving established UK SMEs. We do not guarantee approval, the cheapest deal, or specific timelines. We never charge applicants a fee for submitting an enquiry or being introduced.
Providers in our network may charge their own fees, which they must disclose. We may receive commission from providers if your finance completes. You are under no obligation to accept any offer you receive through our introductions.
Key takeaways
- We are not a lender; we are an introducer and matching platform.
- We do not charge applicants any fees for enquiries or introductions.
- Providers may charge their own fees, disclosed before you proceed.
- We may receive commission from providers if a deal completes.
- No obligation to accept any offer; eligibility and terms apply.
Start your Quick Quote
It’s fast, free, and without obligation to submit your details. Our AI will connect you with relevant lenders or brokers who are actively supporting UK businesses. Check your options now and decide what’s best for your cash flow and goals.
Questions before you begin? Email hello@bestbusinessloans.ai and we’ll point you in the right direction. For general information on finance options for UK SMEs, see the British Business Bank’s resources and always consider seeking independent advice.
Updated: October 2025. Information is general in nature and may change. Always rely on the provider’s current documents and disclosures.