Start Your Business
How to Start a Lending Business
Everything you need to know about launching a lending company. From capitalization to licensing to your first loan origination.
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Building a Lending Business from the Ground Up
Starting a lending business typically involves significant capital, comprehensive licensing, and a deep understanding of both state and federal regulations. This guide covers the general steps involved in launching a properly licensed lending operation. Consult with an attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
How We Work
Our Process
Business Model & Capitalization
Define your lending products, target market, and secure the capital needed to fund loans and meet state net worth requirements.
Entity Formation
Form your business entity, obtain your EIN, and establish your corporate governance structure.
State Licensing
Apply for consumer or commercial lending licenses in your target states through NMLS and direct state filings.
Technology & Infrastructure
Implement loan origination systems, underwriting tools, payment processing, and filings management platforms.
Filings Program
Build out your filings management system including policies, procedures, training, and monitoring.
Funding & Capital Markets
Establish warehouse lines, capital market relationships, or balance sheet funding strategies for your lending operations.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
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Licensing regulations by state
Licensing regulations by state
Where you operate shapes what you file
52 of 52 jurisdictions documented. Pick a state to see the regulator, the license rule, and the bond.
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Tools and references our customers use most.
Stay Ahead of the Rules
Recent rule changes, deadline announcements, and state agency updates we are tracking for you.
No regulatory updates to report right now. Our team is monitoring the agencies and will surface changes here as soon as they land.
Ready to Launch Your Lending Business?
Let Cornerstone handle the licensing complexity while you focus on building your lending platform. Contact us for a free consultation.