How much can I borrow with a merchant cash advance?
By Helm, Funding Specialists
- Most providers offer between 50% and 150% of your average monthly card turnover
- Typical advance amounts range from £10,000 to £500,000 for UK businesses
- Your offer is based on card sales history, not credit score or assets
- You can often access additional funding once you have repaid a portion of your first advance
One of the first questions business owners ask about merchant cash advances is: how much can I actually get? Unlike traditional loans where the amount depends on credit scores, business plans, and collateral, merchant cash advances are based on something much simpler: your card sales.
This guide explains exactly how providers calculate your advance amount and what factors influence how much you can borrow.
How advance amounts are calculated
The core calculation is straightforward. Providers look at your average monthly card turnover over the last three to six months and offer a multiple of that figure.
Most providers offer between 50% and 150% of your monthly card sales. Some will go higher for established businesses with strong, consistent trading histories.
| Monthly card turnover | Minimum offer (50%) | Typical offer (100%) | Maximum offer (150%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| £10,000 | £10,000 | £10,000 | £15,000 |
| £25,000 | £12,500 | £25,000 | £37,500 |
| £50,000 | £25,000 | £50,000 | £75,000 |
| £100,000 | £50,000 | £100,000 | £150,000 |
| £250,000 | £125,000 | £250,000 | £375,000 |
What factors influence your offer
While monthly card turnover is the primary factor, several other elements can influence the amount you are offered.
- Consistency of card sales: steady revenue is valued more than occasional spikes
- Length of trading history: longer histories give providers more confidence
- Existing debt: outstanding funding commitments may reduce your available amount
- Business type: some sectors are considered lower risk than others
- Previous funding history: a good track record with advances can increase your limit
Minimum and maximum amounts
Most UK providers have a minimum advance of around £10,000 and a maximum that can reach £500,000 or more for larger businesses. The exact range varies between providers.
If your card turnover is below £10,000 per month, you may find it difficult to qualify. At the upper end, businesses processing several hundred thousand pounds per month in card sales can access substantial funding.
Can I get more than my monthly turnover?
Yes. Many providers offer advances of up to 150% of your monthly card turnover, and some go even higher for businesses with strong track records. The key consideration is whether the repayment split remains comfortable at the higher amount.
A larger advance means a longer repayment period or a higher daily split. Your provider should model this for you so you can see the impact on your daily cash flow before accepting.
Top-up funding and repeat advances
Once you have repaid a significant portion of your first advance, typically 50% to 70%, many providers will offer top-up funding. This allows you to access additional capital without completing a full new application.
Repeat customers often qualify for larger amounts and better rates because the provider now has direct evidence of your repayment reliability.
How to maximise your advance amount
If you want to access the highest possible amount, there are several things you can do.
- Ensure all card payments are processed through your terminal, not cash
- Provide at least six months of card processing statements
- Clear any existing small debts before applying
- Be transparent about your business finances and trading history
- Consider timing your application after a strong trading period
Frequently asked questions
Can I borrow more than £100,000 with an MCA?
Yes. Businesses with high monthly card turnover can access advances well above £100,000. Some providers offer up to £500,000 or more for qualifying businesses.
Does the amount I can borrow depend on my credit score?
Your credit score is not the primary factor. Providers focus on your card sales history. Businesses with lower credit scores can still access significant funding if their card turnover is strong.
Can I choose to borrow less than the full amount offered?
Yes. You are not obligated to take the full amount. If you only need £15,000 but are offered £25,000, you can accept a lower amount and pay a lower total cost.
How quickly can I get a top-up after my first advance?
Most providers allow top-ups once you have repaid 50% to 70% of your first advance. Depending on your repayment speed, this could be within a few months.