How are merchant cash advance repayments collected?
By Helm, Funding Specialist
- Repayments are deducted automatically from your card transaction settlements
- The split percentage is agreed before you sign the agreement
- Two collection methods exist: split and holdback
- You do not need to make manual payments or remember deadlines
- The process is handled between your MCA provider and payment processor
One of the most common questions about merchant cash advances is exactly how the repayments are taken from your business. Understanding the mechanics helps you plan your cash flow and ensures there are no surprises.
This guide explains the technical process in plain language.
The two collection methods
There are two main ways MCA repayments are collected. The method used depends on your provider and your card processing setup.
| Method | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Split collection | Your payment processor splits each settlement, sending the agreed percentage directly to the MCA provider | Businesses whose processor supports split payments |
| Holdback or ACH | Your full card settlement goes to your bank account, then the MCA provider collects the agreed percentage via direct debit | Businesses using processors that do not support splits |
How split collection works
With split collection, your card payment processor is the key player. When your daily card settlements are processed, the processor automatically divides the funds. The agreed repayment percentage goes directly to your MCA provider, and the remainder goes to your business bank account.
This is the most common method and the most seamless for business owners. You do not need to do anything manually, and the split happens before the funds reach your account.
How holdback collection works
With the holdback method, your full card settlement is deposited into your bank account as normal. The MCA provider then collects the agreed repayment amount via a direct debit or ACH transfer, usually the following business day.
This method requires you to ensure sufficient funds are in your account for the collection. It is slightly less seamless than split collection but works well for businesses whose payment processor does not support automatic splits.
What percentage is typically deducted?
The repayment percentage, sometimes called the split or holdback rate, typically ranges from 10 to 25 percent of your daily card sales. The exact percentage depends on several factors.
- The size of your advance relative to your monthly card revenue
- Your business sector and risk profile
- The factor rate applied to your advance
- Your overall financial health and card transaction consistency
Step-by-step: what happens each day
Here is what happens on a typical trading day with split collection:
- Your customers pay for goods or services using their cards
- Your card terminal or payment gateway processes these transactions
- At the end of the day, your payment processor calculates your total card sales
- The processor splits the settlement: the agreed percentage goes to your MCA provider
- The remaining amount is deposited into your business bank account
- This happens automatically every trading day until the advance is fully repaid
What you see in your bank account
With split collection, the amount deposited into your bank account is already net of the MCA repayment. You will see a slightly lower settlement than your total card sales, with the difference being the repayment.
Most providers supply a dashboard or regular statements so you can track your repayments and see how much of the advance remains outstanding.
Can you change the collection method?
This depends on your provider and your card processing setup. If you switch card processors or terminals during your advance, you should notify your MCA provider immediately. They will need to set up the repayment collection with your new processor.
Switching card processors without informing your MCA provider could be a breach of your agreement, so always communicate changes promptly.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to change my card processor to get an MCA?
Not usually. Most MCA providers work with all major UK card processors. However, check with your provider before applying to confirm compatibility.
What if my card processor has a settlement delay?
Some processors settle funds with a one or two day delay. The repayment is taken when the funds are settled, not when the transaction takes place. This is normal and accounted for.
Can I see my repayments in real time?
Most providers offer an online dashboard or regular statements showing your daily repayments, total repaid, and remaining balance.
What happens if I switch card terminals?
Notify your MCA provider immediately. They will need to set up the repayment collection with your new terminal provider to ensure continuity.