Your English level does not decide your loan. Your numbers, your plan and your preparation do. These tips help you walk in confident.
Prepare before the meeting
- Write a one-page summary of your business in English: what you do, how long, how much you need, what for, how you will repay. Read it aloud a few times.
- Bring your documents organized in the order of our checklist. A complete folder speaks for you.
- Learn 20 key words. Our glossary has them.
Useful phrases
| You want to say | In English |
|---|---|
| Necesito un préstamo de… | I need a loan of [amount] for [purpose]. |
| ¿Me lo puede explicar más despacio? | Could you explain that more slowly, please? |
| ¿Me lo puede dar por escrito? | Can I have that in writing? |
| ¿Cuál es la tasa y los fees? | What is the interest rate, and what are all the fees? |
| ¿Cuánto sería el pago mensual? | What would the monthly payment be? |
| Necesito revisarlo antes de firmar. | I need to review this before I sign. |
| ¿Tienen a alguien que hable español? | Do you have someone who speaks Spanish? |
During the meeting
- It is fine to say “I don’t understand, can you repeat that?” Bankers would rather explain than have you sign something you misunderstood.
- Take notes, or ask if you can record a summary at the end.
- Ask for every important number in writing.
Bring help
- A trusted family member or friend can come with you.
- SBDC advisors sometimes join or prepare you for lender meetings. See free help in Spanish.
- Or look for a Spanish-speaking lender.
Never sign what you don’t understand
Take documents home. Translate them, ask questions, and sign only when you are sure.
Frequently asked questions
Will my English level affect my loan?
No. Lenders decide based on your numbers, plan and documents, not your accent.
What should I bring to my first meeting?
A one-page summary in English, your organized documents and our bilingual glossary of loan terms.
Is it okay to ask the banker to repeat?
Yes. Bankers prefer to explain again rather than have you sign something you misunderstood.
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Educational information, not legal or financial advice. We are not a lender and are not affiliated with the SBA. Disclaimer