Business Funding Guide
MCA vs. Business Line of Credit
March 13, 2026
A merchant cash advance (MCA) funds based on your revenue in 24-48 hours: up to $500,000. A business line of credit (SLOC) funds based on your credit score in 2-4 weeks: up to $150,000. The right choice depends on your timeline, your credit, and your revenue.
Quick Summary
- MCA: revenue-based, $15K+/month required, all credit types, funds in 24-48 hours
- SLOC: credit-based, 720+ personal credit required, no revenue or business history, funds in 2-4 weeks
- MCA = lump sum repaid via daily revenue percentage; SLOC = revolving credit, draw and reuse
- SLOC has 0% intro period (12-24 months); MCA uses a factor rate (costs more overall)
- You can qualify for both simultaneously if you meet both criteria
How Each Product Works
Merchant Cash Advance (MCA)
- Funding up to $250,000
- Based on business revenue, not credit score
- Repayment comes as a percentage of daily sales
- Funds in 24-48 hours
Syndicated Line of Credit (SLOC)
- Funding $50K-$150K
- 0% interest for the first 12 to 24 months
- Based on personal credit score (720+ required)
- Revolving line: draw, repay, draw again
- Funds in 2-4 weeks
Qualification Requirements
To qualify for an MCA:
- $15,000+/month in business revenue
- 6+ months in business
- No minimum credit score
To qualify for a SLOC:
- 720+ personal credit score
- No business history required
- No collateral required
When to Choose MCA
Choose an MCA if you need money fast and your business has consistent revenue. The 24-48 hour timeline is hard to beat when cash flow is the issue. It's also the better option if your credit score is below 720.
When to Choose a SLOC
Choose a SLOC if you have a 720+ credit score and want a revolving line you can draw from over time. The 2-4 week timeline is longer, but you get flexibility: borrow what you need, repay it, and access it again without reapplying.
What If You Qualify for Both?
If your credit is 720+ and your revenue is $15K+/month with 6+ months in business, you may qualify for both products. An unsecured business line of credit can provide long-term revolving access while an MCA covers immediate needs. Our qualifier routes you to the best fit: or both options: based on your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between an MCA and a business line of credit? An MCA is revenue-based with fast funding (24-48 hours). A business line of credit is credit-score-based with a revolving draw structure and a 2-4 week timeline.
How much can I get with an MCA? Up to $250,000, depending on your monthly revenue.
How much can I get with a business line of credit? $50K-$150K, depending on your credit profile.
Do I need collateral for either product? No. Both the MCA and SLOC are unsecured: no assets required.
Can I have both at the same time? Yes. If you qualify for both, using an MCA for immediate needs and a SLOC for longer-term access is a viable strategy.
Ready to See Your Options?
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