According to an Amercian Bankers Association survey of its member banks, 67% of small-business loan applicants typically lack the documentation they need, the “Westchester County Business Journal” reported. According to James Ballentine, director of the ABA Center of Housing, Community and Economic Development, the survey also found that applicants have an incomplete business plan 43% of the time, lack collateral 27% of the time. Responding bankers had the chance to give tips to potential loan applicants, these fell into five categories: 1) Be prepared, 2) Know how much you need, 3) Have a backup plan, 4) Nurture management skills, 5) Establish relationships.