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If you’re trying to get a business loan from a bank or financing from an investor, they may ask you for a personal financial statement.

A personal financial statement is a snapshot of your personal financial position at a specific point in time.

It lists your assets (what you own), your liabilities (what you owe), and your net worth.

To get your net worth, subtract liabilities from assets. Your net worth can be either positive (if you have more assets than liabilities) or negative (if you have more liabilities than assets).

Examples of personal assets include:

• Cash
• Stocks and bonds
• Real estate
• Retirement accounts
• Personal property such as jewelry or cars

Examples of personal liabilities include:

• Outstanding loans
• Mortgage
• Credit card debt

Don’t include business assets or liabilities in your personal financial statement.

When Do You Need a Personal Financial Statement?

When you’re seeking a business loan or other outside financing, you may need to share information about your personal financial data with the financing source. If you’re pledging any of your personal assets as collateral for a loan, lenders want to see details about those assets.

Financing sources may also want to assess your personal financial situation to see how well you manage your finances. For instance, if you have few assets and a lot of outstanding debt, it can indicate you might have trouble repaying a loan.

You might also need a personal financial statement if you’re buying an existing business. The business broker and the business owner will want to see evidence that you’re financially able to purchase the business.

If you’re planning to lease commercial office, retail, or other types of business space, the landlord may request a personal financial statement before they approve your tenancy.

Do you need help preparing your personal financial statement? Talk to a SCORE mentor online or in person to get free assistance and advice.