Merchant cash advance top-up: how to get additional funding
By Helm, Funding Specialists
- Top-up funding lets you access additional capital before fully repaying your first advance
- Most providers allow top-ups once you have repaid 50% to 70% of the original amount
- Repeat customers often qualify for larger amounts and better terms
- The application process for a top-up is usually faster than the initial advance
A merchant cash advance is rarely a one-time need. As your business grows, opportunities and challenges continue to arise. Top-up funding allows you to access additional capital without waiting to fully repay your existing advance.
This guide covers everything you need to know about how top-ups work, when you can apply, and what to expect.
What is a top-up advance?
A top-up advance is additional funding provided while you still have an existing merchant cash advance in place. Instead of waiting until your current advance is fully repaid, you can access more capital once you have made sufficient progress on your repayments.
The new advance effectively replaces your existing one. Your remaining balance is rolled into the new, larger advance, and a new repayment split is agreed.
When can you apply for a top-up?
Most providers require you to have repaid a certain percentage of your original advance before offering a top-up. The typical threshold is between 50% and 70%.
For example, if your original advance was £20,000 and you have repaid £12,000 (60%), you would likely be eligible for a top-up. The remaining £8,000 would be incorporated into your new advance.
| Original advance | Amount repaid | % repaid | Top-up eligible? |
|---|---|---|---|
| £20,000 | £8,000 | 40% | Usually not yet |
| £20,000 | £10,000 | 50% | Possibly |
| £20,000 | £14,000 | 70% | Yes, very likely |
| £20,000 | £20,000 | 100% | Yes, new advance |
How the top-up amount is calculated
Your top-up amount is calculated based on your current card turnover, which may have changed since your first advance. If your card sales have grown, you could qualify for a larger total advance.
The remaining balance from your first advance is deducted from the new total. So if you qualify for £30,000 and still owe £8,000, you would receive £22,000 in new funds.
Benefits of top-up funding
There are several advantages to using top-up funding rather than seeking a completely new facility from a different provider.
- Faster application process since your provider already knows your business
- Often better terms based on your proven repayment track record
- No need to set up new payment arrangements or switch providers
- Potential to access larger amounts as your business has grown
- Continuity of relationship with a provider you trust
Things to consider
While top-ups are convenient, it is worth considering a few things before applying.
First, understand that rolling your remaining balance into a new advance means you are paying a factor rate on a larger total amount. Make sure the additional funding genuinely adds value to your business.
Second, check whether the new terms are comparable to your original advance. Your factor rate may change based on current market conditions and your updated business profile.
How to apply for a top-up with Helm
If you are an existing Helm customer, applying for a top-up is straightforward. Contact us or check your eligibility through our platform. We will review your current repayment progress and updated card turnover to make you a new offer.
The process is typically faster than your initial application because we already have your business information on file. Many top-ups are approved and funded within 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a top-up from a different provider?
Yes, but it is usually simpler and faster to stay with your current provider. If you do switch, the new provider will typically settle your existing balance as part of the new advance.
Will a top-up cost more than my original advance?
Not necessarily. Your factor rate may be the same or even lower if your business has performed well. However, you will pay the factor rate on the total new advance amount, including any rolled-over balance.
How many top-ups can I have?
There is no fixed limit. Many businesses take multiple advances over several years as their funding needs evolve. Each top-up is assessed on its own merits.
Do I need to provide new documentation for a top-up?
Usually, minimal additional documentation is needed. Your provider may request updated card processing statements to confirm your current turnover levels.