Back to Basics: Financial Planning for Your ABA Business

Posted 4 months ago      Author: 3 Pie Squared Marketing Team

Meet Our Guest

Shep Harris

Back to Basics: Financial Planning for Your ABA Business

In this episode of the ABA Business Leaders Podcast, Stephen and April sit down with Shep from Live Oak Bank to break down the essential financial steps every ABA practice needs to understand. Whether you are opening your first clinic or preparing for long-term expansion, this discussion clarifies how banks evaluate ABA practices and what you need for stable, sustainable growth.

How Live Oak Bank Supports ABA Practices

Specialized Lending for ABA Providers

Shep explains how Live Oak Bank partners with ABA practices at every stage of development. Their team focuses...

on understanding the unique operations of ABA services so they can provide financing solutions that align with clinical and business goals.

What Banks Look For

  • Your professional background
  • Your financial history
  • The stability of your income sources
  • The quality of your business plan and projections

These factors help determine whether your ABA practice is set up for financial success.

Preparing Your ABA Practice for Funding

Why Financial Planning Matters Early

Many ABA practice owners underestimate how much capital they need in the beginning. Shep shares how important it is to build realistic projections and understand the true operating costs of launching a clinic.

Understanding ABA Funding Options

The episode breaks down:

  • The difference between a loan and a line of credit
  • When SBA loans are the right choice
  • Why new practices often benefit more from term loans
  • How to avoid overextending yourself too early

This helps new owners choose the funding structure that best supports their ABA practice.

Personal Guarantees and When They May Not Be Required

As your ABA practice grows and becomes more independent from your day-to-day involvement, lenders may consider reducing or removing personal guarantees. Shep explains the conditions required for banks to rely on business strength alone when approving loans.

Real Estate and Smart Financial Decisions

Avoiding Oversized Spaces

Shep highlights the importance of choosing real estate that fits your actual needs. Taking on too much space too early can drain resources and limit your ability to focus on delivering quality care.

Planning for Scalable Growth

Thoughtful financial planning allows your ABA practice to grow at a healthy pace without unnecessary strain.

Final Thoughts

If you are building or expanding an ABA practice, this episode offers clear guidance on ABA finance, bank loans, SBA lending, and long-term financial planning. Understanding how lenders evaluate your business and preparing your financial foundation early sets you up for sustainable success.

Have a question for Stephen and April? Call the ABA Business Leaders Hotline: (737) 330-1432

Resources & Links

Sponsored by Live Oak Bank

Live Oak Bank offers specialized loan solutions for ABA practices. Whether financing acquisitions, real estate, construction, expansion, or partner buyouts, their team helps you craft financial solutions that align with your business goals.

Learn more about Live Oak Bank