Typical uses
- Stocking up on inventory ahead of busy periods
- Paying supplier invoices or unexpected expenses
- Upgrading equipment without dipping into reserves
- Funding short-term marketing or staffing needs
Merchant cash advance for small businesses
A merchant cash advance gives your business quick access to capital, with repayments tied to your daily sales. You pay more when business is going well, and less when it’s not.
Requesting a quote has no impact on your Credit Score.
What is a merchant
cash advance?
A merchant cash advance (MCA) is an alternative business funding solution that allows you to unlock future sales today. Unlike a traditional business loan, an MCA isn’t repaid in fixed installments. The lender takes a fixed percentage of your daily EFTPOS or credit card transactions until the advance is repaid in full.
It’s designed for Australian small businesses with consistent card-based turnover and a need for quick finance.
More about merchant cash advances
Eligible assets
Common industries
MCAs are well-suited to businesses with steady turnover and card-based sales, including:
- Hospitality
- Retail
- Beauty salons and barbers
- Online businesses
- Gyms and personal training studios
Eligibility
To qualify for a merchant cash advance in Australia, most lenders require:
- A minimum of 3–6 months trading history
- Consistent weekly or monthly card sales
- Minimum monthly turnover (usually from $5,000)
- An ABN and active business status
Specific criteria can vary between lenders and products.
Get a quote
Requesting a quote has no impact on your credit score.
The benefits of a merchant cash advance
Flexible repayments
Pay as you earn, based on your daily card sales
Fast access to funds
Approvals and funding often within 24–48 hours
Simple application
Fewer documents and fast online processing
Cash flow-friendly
Repayments fluctuate with your takings, easing pressure during quieter periods
Flexible repayments
Pay as you earn, based on your daily card sales
Fast access to funds
Approvals and funding often within 24–48 hours
Simple application
Fewer documents and fast online processing
Cash flow-friendly
Repayments fluctuate with your takings, easing pressure during quieter periods
Flexible repayments
Pay as you earn, based on your daily card sales
Fast access to funds
Approvals and funding often within 24–48 hours
Simple application
Fewer documents and fast online processing
Cash flow-friendly
Repayments fluctuate with your takings, easing pressure during quieter periods
Things to consider before applying
Potential drawbacks to be aware of
- Effective interest rates can be higher than traditional loans
- Short repayment periods. MCA’s often need to be repaid within 3–12 months
- Sales dependency: Lower card sales = slower repayment
Questions to ask yourself
- Is a short-term, higher-cost solution the right fit for your funding needs?
- Am I comfortable with daily deductions from sales?
- Is my revenue steady enough to handle the repayments?
- Have I compared the total cost to other funding options?
At a glance
MAXIMUM LOAN AMOUNT
$150,000
MINIMUM LOAN AMOUNT
$10,000
SPEED
Fast
INTEREST RATE
Percentage of sales
MAXIMUM LOAN TERM
MINIMUM LOAN TERM
Requesting a quote has no impact on your Credit Score.
Potential lenders
How to apply for a merchant cash advance
STEP 1: GET A QUOTE
Tell us about your business loan needs and immediately receive quotes from over 90+ bank and non-bank lenders.
STEP 2: GET APPROVED
Confirm your quote and we handle your business loan approval so you can focus on what matters—your business.
STEP 3: GET FUNDED
Sign your finance documentation and receive funding. It is that simple.
Get a quote
Requesting a quote has no impact on your credit score.
What sets us apart
DIY business loans
Lender access
Access to 90+ lenders matched to your business profile
Limited to the lenders you can find
Expert guidance
A lending expert is with you every step of the way
No expert help- you're on your own to understand requirements and loan options
Time investment
One single application
Multiple applications and follow-ups with different lenders
Matching accuracy
Our product-matching software combined with human insight pairs you with best-fit lenders
Trial and error- may apply to several lenders who aren't suitable
Application process
Streamlined, digital, and guided
Manual and varies across lenders
Approval speed
Funding in as little as 24 hours
Slower, as each lender has its own process
Chances of approval
Higher chance of approval with tailored lender matching
Risk of rejection when applying with the wrong lender or product
Understanding loan terms
Our lending experts make sure you fully understand the terms before you say yes
You’ll need to interpret lender jargon and fine print yourself
How we help fuel your business growth
ONE APPLICATION TO 90+ LENDERS
We simplify business finance by handling the hard work. Complete a quick form or speak with a specialist, and we’ll match you with the right solution from 90+ lenders—often within 24 hours.
PERSONALISED SUPPORT
Our expert brokers cover all areas of commercial finance. From your first quote to settlement and beyond, you’ll have a dedicated broker by your side—ready to support your funding needs now and in the future.
BUILT FOR AUSTRALIAN SMEs
Since 2015, we’ve helped over 20,000 Australian SMEs across every industry access $2.5+ billion in funding—supporting them through challenges and unlocking new opportunities.
Learn more about merchant cash advances
FAQ's
What is a merchant cash advance?
How quickly can I access MCA funds?
How are MCA repayments calculated?
How do repayments work if my sales go up and down with an MCA?
Hear from our clients
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Awards & key milestones
Our milestones are a testament to the amazing people behind Valiant.
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