A merchant cash advance (MCA) isn't technically a loan — it's an advance against your future sales. You get a lump sum up front and repay it as a small, fixed percentage of your daily or weekly revenue. When sales are strong you pay a bit more; when they slow, you pay less. That built-in flexibility, plus lightning-fast approval, makes it one of the most popular funding options for revenue-strong businesses.
Why owners choose an MCA
- Easy to qualify — high approval rates and no minimum credit score on many programs.
- Fast — approved in hours, funded the same or next business day.
- Flexible repayment — a percentage of sales, so payments breathe with your revenue.
- No collateral — based on your sales, not your assets.
- Use it for anything — inventory, payroll, equipment, marketing, a gap.
Best for revenue-strong businesses that need speed. Because MCAs price for convenience, they're ideal for short-term needs with a clear payoff — a bulk-inventory discount, a big order, or covering a gap. For lower cost with more time, a working capital loan or line of credit may fit better.
How to qualify
| Requirement | Typical minimum |
|---|---|
| Time in business | 4+ months |
| Monthly revenue | $10,000+ in deposits |
| Credit score | No minimum on many programs |
| Documents | 1-page application + 4 months bank statements |
Frequently asked questions
What is a merchant cash advance?
An advance against future sales — you get a lump sum and repay it as a small percentage of daily or weekly revenue, so payments flex with sales.
How easy is it to qualify?
Very — high approval rates and no minimum credit score on many programs, because approval is based on your revenue.
How fast is funding?
Often approved in hours and funded the same or next business day.