“Whether you think you can, or think you can’t… you’re right.”
—Henry Ford, Ford Motor Company founder
Recap of Our Articles and Reports Covering Advice on Business Finance & Strategy (Year-to-Date 2025)
This summary of articles and reports from Bernarsky Advisors highlight the challenges faced by small businesses in 2025, particularly in securing financing and managing cash flow.
Many businesses are struggling with debt, declining revenue, and increasing operational costs.
The firm emphasizes the importance of financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting to maintain financial stability.
They also warn against predatory lenders and the dangers of short-term, high-interest debt.
Bernarsky Advisors provides guidance on how to improve business credit scores, restructure debt and negotiate with creditors, as well as how to obtain the best business debt refinancing.
They also offer advice on how to identify and avoid common mistakes made by business owners. Ultimately, the firm aims to help businesses navigate these turbulent times and emerge stronger.
The interconnected themes of business cash flow management, business debt refinancing and restructuring, operational reorganization, financing options, cash flow planning and overall financial health are paramount for survival and sustainable growth.
(numbered Footnotes for your convenience to find our full articles related to the subject matter)
The Cash Flow Imperative: Mastering Liquidity and Avoiding Crises
Maintaining healthy cash flow is the lifeblood of any business, and in the potentially volatile economic climate of 2025, its importance is amplified. Businesses must be prepared to navigate periods of tight liquidity, understanding that a temporary crunch can quickly escalate into a severe crisis if not addressed promptly. The ability to manage the timing of cash inflows and outflows is critical for meeting short-term obligations and investing in future opportunities.
When a business experiences negative cash flow, where more money is leaving than coming in, it signals underlying issues that demand immediate attention.1 This situation can arise from various factors, including delays in customer payments, unforeseen expenses, overspending on operations or growth initiatives, seasonal fluctuations in revenue, or an overstock of inventory tying up valuable capital.1 Recognizing the warning signs of negative cash flow is the first step toward effective intervention. These signs can include a consistent struggle to pay bills on time, a reliance on personal savings or credit cards to cover business expenses, delays in payments to suppliers or employees, and an overarching feeling of anxiety regarding the company's financial stability. 1
Addressing negative cash flow requires a multifaceted approach focused on both increasing income and controlling expenses.1 Strategies to boost income might involve incentivizing early customer payments, actively pursuing new sales opportunities, exploring diverse revenue streams, and strategically adjusting pricing. On the expense side, businesses should implement a detailed budget and adhere to it diligently, negotiate better terms with suppliers, seek more competitive deals for essential services, and identify areas where overhead costs can be reduced.1 Effective management of working capital is also crucial, requiring optimization of inventory levels to avoid tying up excessive cash and the development of accurate cash flow forecasts to anticipate potential shortfalls.1 Seeking guidance from experienced financial advisors can provide invaluable support in analyzing the situation, developing a tailored plan, and navigating complex financial decisions.1
1. Negative Cash Flow: When Your Business is Running on Empty https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/negative-cash-flow-when-your-business-is-running-on-empty-and-how-to-fix-it
It is crucial to recognize that taking on more debt is generally not a viable long-term solution for underlying cash flow problems.2 While it might offer temporary relief, it often masks the fundamental issues and creates additional financial obligations in the form of repayments, interest, and fees, which can further strain already limited cash flow.2 Resorting to high-cost financing options can create a dangerous cycle of debt, hindering opportunities for sustainable growth and potentially leading to long-term financial instability.2 Instead, the focus should be on implementing sustainable strategies that address the root causes of the cash flow shortage, build an emergency fund to cushion against unexpected events, and explore alternative funding options if necessary, alongside professional financial guidance.2
2. Business Cash Flow Problems Are Not Solved by Taking on More Debt https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/business-cash-flow-problems-are-not-solved-by-taking-on-more-debt
Navigating the Debt Maze: From Easy Money to Predatory Lending
The accessibility of business debt has increased in recent years, but this ease of access comes with potential pitfalls that businesses must be acutely aware of in 2025.
While various online lenders and alternative financing solutions have emerged, it is imperative for businesses to exercise caution and thoroughly evaluate the terms and costs associated with such debt.3
Certain types of "easy-to-get" business debt warrant particular scrutiny.3 Merchant Cash Advances (MCAs), for instance, are advances based on future sales or receivables, repaid through a percentage of daily or weekly revenue along with a fee. While seemingly flexible, the fixed percentage deduction can significantly strain cash flow during slow sales periods. Short-term business loans, often offered by online lenders with less stringent qualification criteria, typically come with higher interest rates and repayment terms ranging from a few months to two years, necessitating larger and more frequent payments. High-interest online loans from fintech platforms are known for their rapid approval processes but carry significantly higher interest rates compared to traditional bank or SBA loans.
The hidden costs associated with these seemingly convenient financing options can be substantial.3 MCAs often utilize a "factor rate" which can translate to alarmingly high Annual Percentage Rates (APRs), sometimes ranging from 60% to 350% or even higher, in addition to administrative, underwriting, and origination fees. Short-term business loans can also have high APRs, potentially reaching 99.9% or more, and may include origination fees. High-interest online loans are often characterized by triple-digit APRs and significant fees, leading to considerable repayment burdens. Businesses facing urgent cash flow shortages, lacking financial literacy regarding loan terms, having limited access to traditional funding, or being drawn in by the speed and simplicity of online applications might be tempted by these options.3 However, defaulting on such unaffordable debt can have severe consequences, including damage to both business and personal credit scores, legal actions, frozen bank accounts, disrupted operations, and ultimately, business failure and bankruptcy.3
3. Beware of Easy Money Offered by Business Funding Brokers https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/beware-of-easy-to-get-business-debt-that-comes-with-payments-you-likely-cannot-afford
The landscape of small business lending is also fraught with deceptive practices, particularly concerning short-term loans and MCAs.4 Some lenders and brokers employ misleading tactics that can severely harm businesses. One common tactic involves quoting factor rates instead of the APR, significantly understating the true cost of financing.
Hidden fees are often downplayed or not clearly disclosed, and the focus on small daily or weekly payments can mask the large cumulative cost. Furthermore, MCAs are legally structured as a purchase of future receivables, not a loan, allowing lenders to bypass usury laws and federal lending regulations.
Salespeople often mislabel MCAs as "loans" or "working capital" to make them sound less risky, and while they are often marketed as flexible due to being tied to credit card sales, many now utilize fixed daily or weekly ACH debits. Aggressive sales tactics and the creation of false urgency are also common, pressuring business owners into signing agreements without adequate review.
Independent brokers, incentivized by high commissions, may push the most expensive products regardless of their suitability for the borrower, sometimes lacking proper training and oversight. Contractual traps such as Confessions of Judgment (though now restricted) and mandatory personal guarantees can further disadvantage borrowers. The aggressive push for renewals or additional advances ("stacking") before the initial advance is paid off can create a continuous cycle of high-cost debt.4
This predatory ecosystem thrives due to regulatory loopholes, the allure of speed, information asymmetry, the desperation of business owners with limited options, and industry lobbying against stricter regulations.4 To protect themselves, small business owners must be hyper-vigilant, always calculate the APR, read agreements meticulously, reject high-pressure tactics, explore all alternative funding options first (such as SBA programs and Community Development Financial Institutions), and report any predatory experiences to relevant authorities.4
4. Destruction of U.S. Small Businesses: Short-term Business Debt, Lies and Deception https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/destruction-of-us-small-businesses-short-term-business-debt-lies-and-deception
The potential for conflicts of interest when working with business loan brokers also necessitates careful consideration.5 Many brokers operate as independent contractors, and their income is directly tied to the commissions they earn.
This compensation structure can incentivize brokers to steer businesses towards loans with shorter terms, higher interest rates, and larger fees, as these often yield bigger payouts for the broker, even if they are not in the best financial interest of the business.
Deceptive tactics employed by some brokers might include pressuring for quick decisions, downplaying risks, presenting a limited selection of lenders (often those offering higher commissions), being vague about commission structures and loan terms, and using "bait and switch" tactics.
To navigate this, businesses should directly inquire about the broker's commission structure, conduct independent research on lenders and loan options, seek advice from objective financial professionals, consider the long-term costs of a loan, and prioritize transparency in all dealings.5
The consistent warnings against easily accessible, short-term debt underscore the significant risk it poses to small business sustainability in 2025, emphasizing the critical need for financial literacy and careful due diligence.
5. Why Some Brokers Steer You Wrong in Business Lending: The Commission Conundrum https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/why-some-brokers-steer-you-wrong-in-business-lending-the-commission-conundrum
Strategic Financing: Exploring Options and Overcoming Obstacles
Despite the potential challenges in the financing landscape, the Small Business Administration (SBA) remains a vital resource for small business owners seeking funding in 2025.6
While some business owners may be hesitant to apply for SBA loans due to perceived complexity, lack of awareness, a preference for faster alternatives, fear of rejection, or a general reluctance to engage with government programs, the advantages of SBA financing are significant.6
These advantages include typically lower interest rates and extended repayment terms compared to other financing options, reducing the burden of debt servicing and freeing up capital for reinvestment. The SBA often has more flexible down payment and collateral requirements, making financing accessible to startups and businesses with limited assets.
The government backing of SBA loans reduces risk for lenders, encouraging them to approve loans for businesses that might otherwise be considered too risky, thereby expanding the lending network. Furthermore, the SBA offers a comprehensive suite of loan programs tailored to diverse needs, including 7(a) loans for general purposes, 504 loans for acquiring fixed assets, microloans for very small businesses, and disaster loans for recovery.
Beyond funding, the SBA also provides access to valuable mentorship, training, and networking opportunities.6 To navigate the SBA loan application process successfully, thorough documentation and preparation are essential, along with a clear understanding of eligibility criteria and personal guarantee requirements.6
6. Why the Small Business Administration (SBA) Remains a Cornerstone for Business Financing https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/why-the-small-business-administration-sba-remains-a-cornerstone-for-business-financing
Facing rejection for business financing is not uncommon, but it is crucial to view it as an opportunity to learn and improve.7 The first step is to understand the reasons for the denial by requesting feedback from the lender and reviewing both personal and business credit reports for any errors or red flags.7
Analyzing financial statements can also reveal potential weaknesses, such as inconsistent revenue or high debt levels.
Addressing these identified issues is paramount.
This might involve improving credit scores by ensuring timely bill payments and reducing credit utilization, strengthening financial statements through better bookkeeping and increased profitability, and refining the business plan to clearly articulate the loan's purpose and repayment strategy.7
When traditional financing is declined, exploring alternative options is vital. These alternatives can include other SBA loan programs, online lenders, microloans offered by non-profit organizations, invoice factoring to access funds tied up in receivables, business credit cards, crowdfunding platforms, seeking funding from friends and family, or even bootstrapping through careful management of existing resources.7
Preparing a strong loan application for any future attempts involves gathering all required documents, crafting a compelling loan proposal that highlights the business's strengths and growth potential, and maintaining patience and persistence throughout the process.7
7. DECLINED: Business Financing Rejection and How to Bounce Back from a “No” https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/declined-business-financing-rejection-and-how-to-bounce-back-from-a-no
Understanding business credit scores is also fundamental in securing favorable financing terms.8 These scores, such as the FICO Small Business Scoring Service (SBSS), Dun & Bradstreet PAYDEX, and scores from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, play a significant role in lenders' assessment of a business's creditworthiness.
The challenges in finding good business financing in 2025 underscore the need for businesses to be proactive in strengthening their financial profile and exploring a diverse range of funding options.9
The current economic climate, characterized by rising interest rates, inflation, and economic uncertainty, has led to tightened lending standards and increased competition for limited funding.9
To overcome these obstacles, businesses should focus on maintaining meticulous financial records, creating realistic budgets, demonstrating healthy cash flow, exploring alternative lenders like online platforms, credit unions, and CDFIs, seeking guidance from financial advisors, considering equity financing, and exploring creative bootstrapping strategies.9
Despite these challenges, opportunities exist through government programs like the SBA, innovations in fintech lending, a growing focus on sustainable businesses, and by cultivating strong relationships with lenders.9
8. Understanding Business Credit Score and How it Affects Business Financing - FICO Small Business Scoring System (SBSS), Dun & Bradstreet Paydex, Experian, Equifax, Transunion https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/understanding-business-credit-score-and-how-it-affects-business-financing-fico-small-business-scoring-system-sbss-dun-bradstreet-paydex-experian-equifax-transunion
9. Small Business Financing Challenges in 2025: Navigating the Funding Maze https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/small-business-financing-challenges-in-2025-navigating-the-funding-maze
Debt Management and Restructuring for Long-Term Stability
Effective management of existing business debt is crucial for long-term financial stability. This involves implementing best practices for tracking, prioritizing, and repaying obligations. When a business faces overwhelming debt, exploring options for corporate debt restructuring can be a viable path to regaining stability and avoiding bankruptcy.10
Debt restructuring involves renegotiating the terms of a company's existing debt with its creditors, reorganizing operations, and potentially refinancing short-term debt with longer-term debt to improve cash flow.
The primary goal is to restore liquidity and operational viability. Common debt restructuring mechanisms include debt reduction (where creditors forgive a portion of the principal), interest rate reduction, maturity extension, debt-for-equity swaps, debt-for-debt swaps (refinancing), asset sales to pay down debt, and the injection of new capital.10
The business debt restructuring process typically involves assessing the financial distress, hiring specialized advisors, developing a restructuring plan, negotiating with creditors, reaching an agreement, and implementing the changes.10
While out-of-court restructuring is generally faster and cheaper, it requires near-unanimous consent from creditors. Chapter 11 bankruptcy offers legal protection and tools to compel compliance but is more expensive and carries a public stigma.10
10. Options for Corporate Debt Restructuring: Creating a Plan and Strategy for Turnaround https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/options-for-corporate-debt-restructuring-creating-a-plan-and-strategy-for-turnaround
In situations where refinancing business debt proves challenging, a business balance sheet restructuring plan might be a more effective strategy.11 Lenders may be hesitant to offer favorable terms to businesses already struggling with cash flow.
A balance sheet restructuring plan focuses on lowering monthly obligations, slowing down cash outflow, and stabilizing the business.
Key steps include direct communication with creditors to negotiate better terms, prioritizing the restructuring or elimination of high-payment debt, slowing down cash outflow by negotiating better terms with vendors and tightening accounts receivable collections, and considering professional assistance from a business finance advisor.11
Taking proactive control of business finances and acting before it is too late is crucial in such situations.11
11. Struggling to Refinance Business Debt? Time for a Business Balance Sheet Restructuring https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/struggling-to-refinance-business-debt-take-control-with-a-business-balance-sheet-restructuring-plan
A vital tool for assessing a business's ability to manage its debt obligations is the Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR).12
This ratio, calculated by dividing the Net Operating Income by the Total Debt Service, indicates whether a business generates enough income to comfortably meet its debt payments, including both principal and interest.
A strong DSCR is essential for securing business loans and financing, maintaining financial well-being and stability, strategic planning for future growth, attracting investors, and navigating economic uncertainty.12
Businesses can enhance their DSCR by boosting revenue and profitability, controlling expenses and optimizing efficiency, strategically managing debt through refinancing or consolidation, and ultimately enhancing their Net Operating Income.12
Consistent monitoring of the DSCR is crucial for tracking financial progress and identifying potential problems early.12
12. Is Your Business Truly Healthy? Unlocking the Power of the Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/is-your-business-truly-healthy-unlocking-the-power-of-the-debt-service-coverage-ratio-dscr
Identifying and Avoiding Common Business Financial Mistakes
Many businesses inadvertently make financial mistakes that can hinder their profitability and long-term success.13 One common oversight is the lack of a comprehensive financial plan, which is essential for informed decision-making regarding funding needs and the utilization of funds.
Over-reliance on business debt financing without a clear repayment strategy is another frequent error. Businesses also often fail to explore all available financing options, limiting themselves to traditional bank loans and missing out on alternatives like venture capital or government grants.
Not thoroughly understanding loan terms before signing an agreement can lead to unexpected costs and repayment burdens.
Maintaining accurate financial records is paramount for effective financial management, yet many businesses fall short in this area. Extending credit to customers without a well-defined credit policy and failing to monitor credit and collections can also negatively impact cash flow.
Finally, not seeking professional financial advice when facing uncertainty can lead to poor decisions.13
13. Mistakes Most Businesses Continue to Make Without Even Knowing It https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/mistakes-most-businesses-continue-to-make-without-even-knowing-it
Becoming overly reliant on borrowing can create a "business borrowing treadmill" where a company constantly needs to borrow to stay afloat.14 This dependence can stem from inconsistent revenue, poor financial management, overspending, unexpected expenses, over-reliance on short-term debt, lack of sufficient working capital, or even rapid growth that outpaces available resources.
The perils of perpetual borrowing include erosion of profitability due to high-interest payments, constriction of cash flow from managing multiple loan payments, elevated financial risk making the business vulnerable to economic downturns, damage to the credit score from missed payments, increased stress for business owners, and limitations on growth by diverting resources to debt repayment.14
Escaping this trap requires financial discipline, strategic planning, and proactive management, including conducting a thorough analysis of financial statements, aiming to build a financial reserve, developing a long-term financial plan, mastering cash flow management, exploring debt consolidation and refinancing, seeking expert consultation, prioritizing profitability, and ensuring that borrowing for growth generates a justifiable return.14
14. Business Borrowing Treadmill: Why Your Business Can't Seem to Get Ahead https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/business-borrowing-treadmill-why-your-business-cant-seem-to-get-ahead
It is also important to debunk common myths about business debt.15 Not all business debt is inherently bad; when used st
rategically and responsibly, it can fuel growth. Taking on business debt can indicate confidence and ambition rather than weakness.
Completely avoiding debt might be as harmful as over-borrowing, as strategic debt can be necessary to seize opportunities or bridge cash flow gaps.
Even profitable businesses may need debt for major expansions.
Finally, short-term debt is not always the best option, as it often carries high-interest rates; considering long-term implications and alternatives like SBA loans is crucial.15 Understanding the purpose, affordability, terms, and risks associated with any debt is essential before taking it on.15
15. Business Debt Deception: Debunking Myths About Business Borrowing https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/business-debt-deception-debunking-myths-about-business-borrowing
Turning Around a Struggling Business: A Comprehensive Action Plan
Recognizing the early warning signs that a business might be heading toward a financial crisis is crucial for timely intervention.16 When a business is facing difficulties such as negative cash flow, overwhelming debt, or declining revenue, immediate action is necessary.17
The first step is an honest and thorough assessment of the situation to identify the root causes of the distress.
Common issues include a severe cash flow shortage, excessive debt (especially high-interest loans and MCAs), stagnant or declining revenue, poor financial management practices, operational inefficiencies, declining employee morale, and the significant personal toll on the business owner.17
16. Is Your Business Heading Down a Slippery Slope? Recognize the Potential Crisis https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/is-your-business-heading-down-a-slippery-slope-recognize-the-potential-crisis
17. If Your Business is Having Troubles, Here's What to Do https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/if-your-business-is-having-troubles-heres-what-to-do
Developing a strategic roadmap for recovery is essential.17 This includes taking immediate financial first aid by getting an accurate picture of the financial situation and engaging a qualified accountant or financial advisor.
Debt deconstruction and management involve prioritizing high-interest debts, negotiating with creditors, and exploring debt refinancing options like SBA loans.
Revenue revitalization requires developing a comprehensive sales and marketing strategy and identifying new income streams. A close examination of expenses to cut costs without affecting essential operations is also critical.
Operational optimization involves streamlining processes and implementing efficiency measures. Engaging a financial advisor specializing in business turnaround and seeking legal counsel if necessary can provide invaluable support.
In some cases, strategic restructuring or reinvention of the business model might be necessary. Finally, developing a long-term financial plan, including budgeting and cash flow forecasting, is crucial to prevent future crises.17
Addressing critical business challenges requires a focus on cash flow crisis management through assessing the damage, communicating transparently with stakeholders, prioritizing essential expenses, and exploring emergency funding options.18
Preventing future crises involves analyzing the root causes and implementing better financial controls. Turnaround strategies should include an honest assessment of the business, setting clear and measurable goals, and a strategic focus on operational improvements, cost reduction, and revenue generation.
Strong leadership, effective communication, and diligent progress monitoring are vital for successful implementation of a turnaround plan.18
For businesses battling severe cash flow issues and overwhelming debt, a rescue plan should involve an honest assessment of the financial situation, exploring debt restructuring options, optimizing cash flow by increasing revenue and reducing expenses, seeking professional guidance, exploring alternative financing, and prioritizing the business owner's well-being.19
18. Addressing Critical Business Challenges: How to Turnaround Your Business Cash Flow and Operations https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/addressing-critical-business-challenges-how-to-turnaround-your-business-cash-flow-and-operations
19. A Rescue Plan for Businesses Battling Cash Flow Issues: Sinking Under the Weight of Business Debt https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/a-rescue-plan-for-businesses-battling-cash-flow-issues-sinking-under-the-weight-of-business-debt
Protecting Your Business and Ensuring Long-Term Health
Evaluating the overall financial health of a business requires examining key financial indicators such as cash flow, debt, equity, assets, and liabilities.20
Simple methods to measure business debt include comparing the total debt to the total equity and assessing the affordability of monthly debt payments based on operational earnings.
Financial statements, including the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement, serve as a "business report card" and can help identify patterns and potential problems early on.
Warning signs of unmanageable debt include consistent struggles to pay loans on time, taking out new loans to pay off old ones, relying on high-interest credit cards for daily expenses, difficulty in obtaining new funding, frequent contact from lenders regarding late payments, strained relationships with employees or suppliers due to late payments, and declining sales or profits.20
Simple steps to improve financial health include creating a spending plan, communicating with lenders to explore better terms, consolidating loans, and shopping for loans with better interest rates.
Seeking advice from a business finance advisor can provide expert guidance in tackling debt and making informed financial decisions.20
20. Evaluating Your Business Financial Health: Cash Flow, Debt, Equity, Assets & Liabilities https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/evaluating-your-business-financial-health-cash-flow-debt-equity-assets-liabilities
It is crucial to avoid falling for business debt settlement scams, particularly those that require escrowing funds.21
This practice can severely harm a business by choking its cash flow, damaging relationships with creditors, and failing to address the underlying debt issues.
Alternatives to debt settlement escrow include direct negotiation with creditors, debt restructuring, cash flow optimization, seeking professional help from financial advisors, boosting revenue, and selling non-essential assets.21
Maintaining consistent payments to creditors is generally advisable to avoid further financial deterioration.22
21. Do Not Fall for the "Business Debt Settlement" Scam: Never Escrow Money to Settle Business Debts https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/do-not-fall-for-the-business-debt-settlement-scam-why-you-should-never-escrow-money-to-settle-business-debts
22. Why Your Business Should NEVER Stop Paying Its Creditors - Unless You Want to Watch Everything Crumble, https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/why-your-business-should-never-stop-paying-its-creditors-unless-you-want-to-watch-everything-crumble
Key Takeaways for Small Business Financial Success in 2025
In the dynamic financial landscape of 2025, small business success hinges on a proactive and informed approach to financial management.
Mastering cash flow is paramount, and businesses must resist the temptation to rely on short-term, high-cost debt as a primary solution for liquidity issues.
Vigilance is crucial when navigating the complexities of business debt, particularly concerning brokers and the dangers of predatory lending practices like Merchant Cash Advances.
Exploring SBA loan programs and understanding the reasons for financing rejection are essential steps in securing necessary capital. Effective debt management, including considering restructuring options and monitoring the Debt Service Coverage Ratio, contributes significantly to long-term stability.
Avoiding common financial mistakes through sound planning and seeking professional advice can prevent many challenges.
When facing financial distress, a comprehensive turnaround plan that addresses both immediate and underlying issues is critical.
Finally, continuously evaluating financial health and avoiding detrimental practices like debt settlement scams are vital for ensuring long-term survival and growth.
Small business owners who prioritize financial literacy, strategic planning, and proactive management will be best positioned to navigate the currents of 2025 and achieve sustainable success.
Works cited
Negative Cash Flow: When Your Business is Running on Empty https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/negative-cash-flow-when-your-business-is-running-on-empty-and-how-to-fix-it
Business Cash Flow Problems Are Not Solved by Taking on More Debt https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/business-cash-flow-problems-are-not-solved-by-taking-on-more-debt
Beware of Easy Money Offered by Business Funding Brokers https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/beware-of-easy-to-get-business-debt-that-comes-with-payments-you-likely-cannot-afford
Destruction of U.S. Small Businesses: Short-term Business Debt, Lies and Deception https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/destruction-of-us-small-businesses-short-term-business-debt-lies-and-deception
Why Some Brokers Steer You Wrong in Business Lending: The Commission Conundrum ttps://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/why-some-brokers-steer-you-wrong-in-business-lending-the-commission-conundrum
Why the Small Business Administration (SBA) Remains a Cornerstone for Business Financing https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/why-the-small-business-administration-sba-remains-a-cornerstone-for-business-financing
DECLINED: Business Financing Rejection and How to Bounce Back from a “No” https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/declined-business-financing-rejection-and-how-to-bounce-back-from-a-no
Understanding Business Credit Score and How it Affects Business Financing - FICO Small Business Scoring System (SBSS), Dun & Bradstreet Paydex, Experian, Equifax, Transunion https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/understanding-business-credit-score-and-how-it-affects-business-financing-fico-small-business-scoring-system-sbss-dun-bradstreet-paydex-experian-equifax-transunion
Small Business Financing Challenges in 2025: Navigating the Funding Maze https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/small-business-financing-challenges-in-2025-navigating-the-funding-maze
Options for Corporate Debt Restructuring: Creating a Plan and Strategy for Turnaround https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/options-for-corporate-debt-restructuring-creating-a-plan-and-strategy-for-turnaround
Struggling to Refinance Business Debt? Time for a Business Balance Sheet Restructuring https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/struggling-to-refinance-business-debt-take-control-with-a-business-balance-sheet-restructuring-plan
Is Your Business Truly Healthy? Unlocking the Power of the Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/is-your-business-truly-healthy-unlocking-the-power-of-the-debt-service-coverage-ratio-dscr
Mistakes Most Businesses Continue to Make Without Even Knowing It https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/mistakes-most-businesses-continue-to-make-without-even-knowing-it
Business Borrowing Treadmill: Why Your Business Can't Seem to Get Ahead https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/business-borrowing-treadmill-why-your-business-cant-seem-to-get-ahead
Business Debt Deception: Debunking Myths About Business Borrowing https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/business-debt-deception-debunking-myths-about-business-borrowing
Is Your Business Heading Down a Slippery Slope? Recognize the Potential Crisis https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/is-your-business-heading-down-a-slippery-slope-recognize-the-potential-crisis
If Your Business is Having Troubles, Here's What to Do https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/if-your-business-is-having-troubles-heres-what-to-do
Addressing Critical Business Challenges: How to Turnaround Your Business Cash Flow and Operations https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/addressing-critical-business-challenges-how-to-turnaround-your-business-cash-flow-and-operations
A Rescue Plan for Businesses Battling Cash Flow Issues: Sinking Under the Weight of Business Debt https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/a-rescue-plan-for-businesses-battling-cash-flow-issues-sinking-under-the-weight-of-business-debt
Evaluating Your Business Financial Health: Cash Flow, Debt, Equity, Assets & Liabilities https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/evaluating-your-business-financial-health-cash-flow-debt-equity-assets-liabilities
Do Not Fall for the "Business Debt Settlement" Scam: Never Escrow Money to Settle Business Debts https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/do-not-fall-for-the-business-debt-settlement-scam-why-you-should-never-escrow-money-to-settle-business-debts
22. Why Your Business Should NEVER Stop Paying Its Creditors - Unless You Want to Watch
Everything Crumble, https://www.bernarskyadvisors.com/updatesandinformation/why-your-business-should-never-stop-paying-its-creditors-unless-you-want-to-watch-everything-crumble
We can help you Navigate through the Small Business Financing maze.
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Bernarsky Advisors
Business Finance and Strategy Advice
Refinance. Restructure. Reorganize.
(See more of our articles about Business Finance and Strategy below…)
WHAT IS THE BEST AND SAFEST WAY FOR YOUR BUSINESS TO DEAL WITH HIGH BUSINESS DEBT PAYMENTS?
It is NOT by stopping ACH payments.
It is NOT by taking on another business loan.
It is NOT ALWAYS a Refinancing
It is NOT by entering into a debt settlement program.
Find out the BEST strategies to get your Business back to where it was
Setup a meeting with a business finance & strategy expert to discuss all of your options!
Read some other recent Business Finance and Business Strategy articles:
