What Are Short Term Loans?

Short term loans provide fast business funding, typically repaid in 3 to 24 months. They’re ideal for addressing immediate cash flow needs or seizing time-sensitive opportunities. These loans are often easier to qualify for and are approved faster than traditional long-term financing.

If your business needs quick capital - whether to make payroll, restock inventory, or cover urgent expenses - a short term loan could be the answer.

What Are Short Term Loans? - AmeriFirst Finance

Short Term Loans Highlights

payments

Loan Amounts

$5,000 - $500,000

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Repayment Terms

3 to 24 months

speed

Funding Timeline

As fast as 1-3 days

Common Use Cases

Short term business loans are versatile by design. Whether you're facing an unexpected challenge or jumping on a time-sensitive opportunity, these loans are built to help you move quickly. Here are some of the most common ways businesses put short term funding to work:

  • Bridge Short-Term Cash Flow Gaps - Manage periods where expenses outpace incoming revenue, like waiting on invoice payments or seasonal slowdowns.
  • Purchase Inventory or Supplies in Bulk - Take advantage of supplier discounts or prepare for high-demand seasons without draining existing reserves.
  • Cover Payroll or Operational Costs - Ensure employees are paid and essential services stay running during times of temporary cash strain.
  • Launch Time-Sensitive Campaigns - Fund marketing initiatives or product launches that require fast capital to meet deadlines and maximize ROI.
  • Handle Emergency Repairs or Equipment Issues - Quickly fix or replace broken machinery, vehicles, or facilities that are critical to operations.
How Can Short Term Loans Help My Business? - AmeriFirst Finance

How Can Short Term Loans Help My Business?

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Inventory & Supply

Restock shelves fast to meet demand without cash flow concerns.

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Payroll Support

Cover payroll on time, even during slow months or transitions.

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Marketing Campaigns

Invest in advertising that produces ROI without draining reserves.

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Unexpected Repairs

Fix equipment or facilities fast without derailing operations.

Pros & Cons of Short Term Loans

Pros
  • ✔ Fast funding (1-3 days typical)
  • ✔ Easier approval than traditional bank loans
  • ✔ Great for managing short-term needs
  • ✔ Minimal documentation required
Cons
  • ✘ Shorter repayment period = higher payments
  • ✘ Higher interest rates than long-term loans
  • ✘ May include daily or weekly payments
  • ✘ Not ideal for long-term investments

Final thoughts about Short Term Loans

If your business needs fast, flexible funding - and you can repay quickly - short term loans offer a powerful option. Whether you're facing seasonal dips, taking on a new opportunity, or just keeping things running smoothly, short term financing gives you the working capital you need to stay in control. Need help comparing your options? Talk to one of our funding advisors today.

Short Term Loans - FAQs

A short term business loan is financing that’s typically repaid within 3 to 24 months. It’s designed for quick access to capital and is ideal for covering urgent expenses or short-lived opportunities.

Most short term loans are approved and funded within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your documentation and lender requirements.

Common uses include covering payroll, purchasing inventory, bridging cash flow gaps, launching marketing campaigns, or handling emergency repairs.

Not necessarily. Many short term loans are unsecured and credit-flexible. Approval is often based on revenue and business history rather than just credit score.

Payments are typically made on a daily or weekly basis, with fixed amounts over a set term. It’s important to understand the repayment schedule before committing.

Why businesses choose AmeriFirst Financing

Real business owners on speed, service, and outcomes with AmeriFirst - straight from our customers.

“When our printer lease fell through, we needed fast equipment financing. AmeriFirst got us approved the same day and funds were in our account by morning. Great communication and no surprises. We're now fully operational again thanks to them.”

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Lamar J.
Co-Founder | NextGen Print | Atlanta, GA

“We applied for a line of credit and had multiple offers within hours. The rep helped us compare terms and select the one that made the most sense for our cash flow needs. We've already used it twice and it's been seamless.”

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Tyler B.
Operations Manager | Southpoint Delivery Co. | Phoenix, AZ

“AmeriFirst took the time to understand our business. We weren't a cookie-cutter client, but they found a funding solution that worked for us. Their referral program also gave us an unexpected bonus when we sent another business their way.”

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Henry L.
Managing Member | TriState IT Solutions | Newark, NJ

“I was skeptical at first, but the team at AmeriFirst was professional and didn't pressure me into anything. They explained everything clearly and gave me time to decide. I took a small working capital loan and it helped me hire a part-time tech.”

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Marcus V.
Founder | Prime Auto Detailers | Charlotte, NC

“We had a large event contract coming up and needed quick access to funds. AmeriFirst's process was smooth, and we were funded in under 48 hours. Their team answered all our questions and followed up after. Top-notch experience all around.”

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Tanya S.
Co-Owner | Blue Horizon Events | Seattle, WA

“I appreciated how AmeriFirst didn't treat us like just another number. As a childcare business, it's hard to get approved — but they worked with us, explained our options, and delivered. The funding let us renovate two classrooms and increase capacity.”

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Denise H.
Owner | Bright Minds Learning Center | Orlando, FL

“We were hesitant about taking on funding, but AmeriFirst's team was helpful without being pushy. They walked us through every option and answered every question. The process was transparent and the funding helped us expand our seating and hire two more staff.”

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Sierra D.
Managing Partner | Urban Bistro | Austin, TX

“AmeriFirst made the entire funding process incredibly easy. From the first call to the final approval, everything was clear and fast. We received the working capital we needed within 24 hours and were able to take on more contracts almost immediately.”

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Alex M.
Owner | Redwood Landscaping | Denver, CO

“Getting started as a beauty brand, I needed startup funds for inventory and packaging. AmeriFirst came through when my bank didn't. They were fast, responsive, and made me feel confident every step of the way. I've already referred two friends!”

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Jasmine T.
Owner | Glow & Go Cosmetics | Chicago, IL

“As a seasonal business, cash flow dips can be brutal. AmeriFirst helped us secure a merchant cash advance that covered marketing costs during our slow period. We hit record bookings this summer and paid it back early. Great service and flexible terms.”

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Rachel K.
CEO | Coastline Spa Services | San Diego, CA