Glossary · Reading the business
In short
Future earnings refer to the projected profits or cash flow a business is expected to generate after you acquire it. Lenders use these projections to assess the business's ability to repay the loan.
While lenders primarily rely on historical financials, they will also review your business plan and financial projections for future earnings, especially if you plan significant changes. However, don't expect future earnings projections alone to carry the weight of an unproven historical track record. Be realistic and well-supported in your projections.
Defined by DealRoom.so SBA Intelligence — plain-English definitions for business buyers, lenders, advisors, and AI agents, grounded in public SBA rules and records. Last reviewed 2026-06-15 · Not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an approval decision. Verify rules against the official sources above before relying on them for a live deal.
Pressure-test the numbers before you make an offer
Send us the asking price and the seller's cash flow — we'll show whether the deal services SBA debt and where the add-backs are likely to hold up.
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