Key takeaways
- Incomplete packages are the #1 cause of delays. Gather everything before you apply.
- Every owner of 20% or more will need personal documents and will usually sign a personal guarantee.
- For acquisitions, you'll need the seller's documents too. Request them early.
- Make sure your license application and loan application tell the same story.
Personal documents (each owner of 20% or more)
- Government-issued photo ID
- Personal federal tax returns, last 3 years
- Personal financial statement (SBA Form 413 for SBA loans)
- Resume showing relevant business and retail experience
- Bank and investment statements (2–3 months) showing your down payment
- Source-of-funds documentation (gift letters, sale of assets, etc.)
- Explanations for any credit issues, past bankruptcies, or legal matters
- Statement of personal history, if applicable for SBA loans
Business documents (existing stores)
- Business federal tax returns, last 3 years
- Year-to-date profit and loss statement and balance sheet
- Business bank statements, last 6–12 months
- Business debt schedule (lender, balance, payment, maturity)
- Accounts payable and receivable aging, if applicable
- State liquor license and any local licenses
- Sales tax and excise tax filings
- POS sales reports by category
- Current lease or deed
- Entity documents: articles, operating agreement or bylaws, EIN letter
- Business insurance declarations
Additional documents for buying a store
- Signed letter of intent or purchase agreement
- Seller's business tax returns, last 3 years
- Seller's year-to-date financials and POS reports
- Distributor and wholesaler purchase history
- Equipment and fixtures list
- Most recent inventory count or estimate
- Lease and landlord consent to assignment (or real estate purchase contract)
- License transfer application and status
- Your business plan or transition plan
- Seller note terms (if any)
Additional documents for a new store
- Full business plan with 2–3 years of projections
- Sources and uses of funds
- Contractor bids and equipment quotes
- Lease or LOI (contingent on license approval)
- License application and status
- Opening inventory plan by category
Additional documents for real estate
- Purchase contract or current mortgage statement
- Property information: square footage, rent roll if multi-tenant
- Prior appraisal and environmental reports, if available
- Property tax bills and insurance
- Construction plans and budget, for new builds
Expert tip
Lenders often verify your tax returns directly with the IRS using Form 4506-C. Make sure the returns you submit are the exact returns you filed. Any mismatch is a serious problem.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do I need for a liquor store loan?
Typically 3 years of personal and business tax returns, current financial statements, bank statements, a personal financial statement, your liquor license, lease, and debt schedule. Acquisitions and startups require additional documents like the purchase agreement, seller financials, and a business plan.
Do I need tax returns to get a liquor store loan?
For SBA and bank loans, yes. Some alternative lenders approve smaller amounts based on bank statements alone, usually at a higher cost.
Sources
We cite primary sources: federal agencies, regulations, and official program rules. Rules vary by state and change over time.
General education, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Loan programs, state alcohol laws, and lender requirements change and vary by state. Disclosures.