Get started by answering a few simple questions.
Score & Go™ is a great fit if you’re:
✅ Looking to grow your team, but want to protect your cash flow✅ Investing in marketing without relying on high-interest credit
✅ Preparing for a busy season and need to stock up on inventory or supplies
✅ Managing seasonal cash flow or smoothing out revenue gaps
✅ Ready to act on new opportunities — and want capital that works on your terms
What you’ll need to qualify for a Score & Go™ loan.
Looking to grow your business? If you're considering a Score & Go™ loan through First Bank of the Lake, here are the minimum requirements we’ll review during the application process:
You Must Meet SBA Eligibility
To qualify, you'll need to meet the SBA’s standard requirements. This includes operating a for-profit business located in the U.S., being a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and showing responsible credit and financial history.
2 Years of Business Tax Returns
Score & Go™ is designed for established businesses. You’ll need to provide at least two years of business tax returns to show consistent operations and revenue history.
A Credit Score of 700 or Higher
We typically look for a personal credit score of 700 or above. This helps us assess your overall financial picture and repayment ability.
Use Funds for Working Capital
This loan is intended for everyday business needs — not large purchases or real estate. Eligible uses include payroll, hiring and recruiting, marketing, inventory, supplies, accounts payable, and other day-to-day operating expenses.
We’ll Help You Figure It Out.
Check your eligibility today. No credit pull. No commitment.
* Score & Go™ is an SBA-guaranteed business term-loan made by First Bank of the Lake in connection with the SBA 7(a) small loan program. All Score & Go™ loans must qualify for the SBA 7(a) small loan program. Other terms and conditions apply. Score & Go™ loan amounts are limited to $25,000 minimum and a $150,000 maximum.
| Feature | Score & Go™ Loan | Merchant Cash Advance |
Business Credit Card |
| Loan Amount | ✅ $25,000 - $150,000 | ❌ Varies widely | ❌ Typically $10K - $50K |
| Interest Rate | ✅ As low as 13.5% | ❌ Often 35%–100%+ effective APR | ❌ Often 20%+ APR |
| Repayment Terms | ✅ Fixed 10-year term | ❌ Short term (3–18 months) | ❌ Monthly revolving balance |
| Payment | ✅ Predictable payments | ❌ Daily or weekly payments | ❌ Varies, based on balance |
| Fees | ✅ No hidden fees | ❌ High origination fees, factor rates, early payoff penalties | ❌ Annual fees, late fees, cash advance fees |
| Credit Limit Increases | ✅ One-time approval for full loan amount | ❌ Requires a new advance, with new fees | ❌ Not guaranteed, requires reapplication |
| Best For | ✅ Larger investments and steady cash flow | ❌ Urgent cash needs but limited options | ❌ Short-term, smaller expenses |
Smarter Funding Starts Here.
Choose smarter capital with longer terms, lower payments, and real support.
Smart Funding Starts with a Clear Path
Applying for a loan shouldn’t feel like a black hole. With Score & Go™, you’ll get straight forward steps, expert support, and full transparency from your first click to funding.
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Step 1: Tell Us What You Need
Open or Close
Start by filling out a quick form about your business and how you plan to use the funds. Whether you’re hiring, stocking up, or investing in marketing—we’ll match you with a lending specialist.
✔ Takes just minutes to complete
✔ No credit pull
✔ Helps us understand your goals -
Step 2: Connect with Your Lending Expert
Open or Close
You’ll get paired with a real human—someone who knows SBA loans and will walk you through next steps. No pressure. No sales pitch. Just honest, helpful guidance.
✔ Personal support from start to finish
✔ Clear next steps tailored to your goals
✔ Answers to all your questions -
Step 3: Check Your Eligibility
Open or Close
We’ll help you review key qualifications—like credit score, ownership percentage, and business history—to make sure Score & Go is the right fit for you.
✔ At least 2 years in business
✔ Strong credit and responsible ownership
✔ We’ll tell you exactly where you stand -
Step 4: Share a Few Key Details
Open or Close
Unlike a traditional SBA loan, Score & Go has minimal document requirements. We’ll guide you through what’s needed—and nothing more.
✔ Basic business financials and tax returns
✔ Info on how you’ll use the funds
✔ We keep it simple, so you can focus on running your business -
Step 5: Apply with Confidence
Open or Close
Once everything’s in place, we’ll help you submit your application and keep you in the loop the entire time. No guesswork. No disappearing acts.
✔ We help package and submit your file
✔ You’ll always know where things stand
✔ Real updates from real people
Ready to take the first step?
We’re here when you are and we’ll be with you the whole way.
All loans are subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations may apply. First Bank of the Lake does not provide tax, legal or investment advice. All decisions concerning these matters should be made in conjunction with your professional advisors.
*Ranked in top 1% as 15th largest SBA 7(a) lender by approval amount during SBA fiscal year 2024. Top 5 SBA franchise lender by approval count during SBA fiscal years 2024 and 2023.
Approved to offer SBA loan products under SBA's Preferred lenders Program.
