Merchant Cash Advance Calculator

What is a merchant cash advance?

A merchant cash advance is a loan repayment method. Instead of paying a fixed amount to a bank each month, the lender takes a percentage of your credit card sales. They may also be called a business cash advance, but it's the same thing.

Unlike a traditional loan, there's more flexibility as it depends on your business' sales. If your business sales increase, you can repay the loan faster. You aren't tied down to repaying a set amount each month.

How does a merchant cash advance work?

A merchant cash advance works by giving you instant access to cash and the flexibility to repay based on the point of sale - so it removes a lot of the hassle of repayment.

One of the major advantages is that the loan can be repaid quickly, and it's a scalable option that can grow with your business. It's also unsecured, so there aren't any risks to the business' assets. 

For example:

You wish to borrow £30,000 for your business. This might allow you to hire a new member of staff or buy more stock, which could allow you to increase your monthly sales. But you need quick access to cash, so you approach a merchant cash advance provider.

You have an average monthly card sales of £50,000. You decide that you can repay 26% of those sales as a daily payment. Based on the lender agreeing to a 1.3% factor rate, your loan would be repaid in 90 days. The total cost would be £39,000, with a daily repayment of around £433, which can make it an affordable option for retailers and hospitality businesses.

MCAs are typically repaid within 3-12 months, but the repayment term can vary depending on the lender and the terms of the loan agreement.

Benefits 

• Simple application process: Many lenders only look at a business' monthly card sales rather than their credit score.
• Unsecured: No risk to your fixed assets, and you don't have to be a homeowner to be approved.
• Hassle-free repayment method: You repay at the point of sale, not a fixed monthly lump sum.
• Build company credit: Repaying an MCA can build company credit so a larger credit line can be secured in the future.
• Flexible: Repayments are made in line with your card sales, so if there is a seasonal dip, the company only needs to repay the minimum amount.
• Short-term: Can be repaid quickly, especially if the business is growing.

Applying for a merchant cash advance

Here is a step-by-step overview of the application process for a merchant cash advance:

1. The business applies for an MCA and provides the lender with its credit card sales history and current sales volume.
2. The lender assesses the business's creditworthiness and calculates a factor rate.
3. The lender approves the loan and provides the business with a lump sum of cash. This is the advance amount.
4. The business repays the loan through a percentage of its credit card sales, plus fees.
5. The business repays the loan in full within 3-12 months.

There are many different MCA providers, and each of them will offer slightly different terms and conditions, with some offering more favourable rates.

Not sure which provider is right for you?

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Check if you're eligible for a merchant cash advance facility

Eligibility for a merchant cash advance facility typically depends on your business.

Firstly, businesses must have a consistent amount of debit and credit card sales to qualify. Some providers may request a forecast of future card sales.

To check whether your business is eligible, speak to our team for advice. Call 020 7458 4586 to talk to one of our advisors, who will be happy to help.

Apply for a merchant cash advance facility

Our intelligent matching service will match you with a merchant cash advance provider instantly. Plus, our dedicated team are on hand to give unparalleled support and advice throughout the process.

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