Frequently Asked Questions

Qualifications For A Merchant Loan
  • Eating and Drinking Places: Restaurants, Bars, Nightclubs, Coffee Shops, Donut & Bagel Shops, Bakeries
  • Other Categories: Medical Practices, Veterinary Services, Most Franchised Concepts, Theaters
  • Retail Businesses: Gift, Card & Novelty Stores, Clothing Stores, Auto Parts & Accessories, Hardware Stores, Liquor Stores, Florists, Pet & Pet Supply Stores, Hotels / Motels, Beauty & Barber Shops, Tobacco & Cigar Shops, Laundry & Dry Cleaning, Drug Stores
  • Additional: Landscaping Companies, Nurseries, Bike Shops, Sporting Goods Stores, Gym/Fitness Centers, Car Washes, Tanning Salons, Hobby Shops, Toy Stores, Pool & Spa Companies…and many, many more.
  • One year in business, with at least $20,000 in total monthly sales.
  • If time in business is one year, the minimum monthly sales required drops to $20,000.
  • Minimum credit score of 500.
  • No open bankruptcies. BK must be dismissed/discharged for at least one year.
  • No open foreclosures. Foreclosure must be dismissed/discharged for at least one year.
  • No open tax liens unless a payment plan has been established.
  • Must be current on mortgage and business rent. May be up to two months late, on case-by-case basis.
  • Existing advances do not disqualify the merchant
  • Do not need to be accepting Visa/MasterCard/American Express.
How Is The Loan Amount Determined?

We use actual annual gross sales to determine your loan amount. Potential loan amounts vary from 4% to 12% of gross annual sales (based upon current or projected sales) and credit worthiness.

Example: If your average monthly gross sales volume is $50,000/month and your annual total sales with cash, credit cards and checks is $600,000, then your potential loan amount is $24,000 to $72,000. If sales increase over time, you may qualify for additional cash. All loans are subject to First Working Capital’s underwriting criteria.

What Are The Terms Of A Merchant Loan?

Our program provides maximum flexibility with minimal hassles and loan amounts of up to $150,000 per location and up to $1,000,000 or more per business relationship. Pay Back Terms range from 6 months to 24 months, designed to provide your business with the best terms, most money funded, and optimal monthly cash flow. We have a streamlined application process, require minimal documentation, and fund quickly – often in as little as five to seven business days. We never require collateral, and we never interfere with your credit card stream.

Will The Payback With First Working Capital Be Tied To My Credit Card Sales?

No. Many cash advance companies receive their payback by deducting up to 30% from your daily Visa® and MasterCard® sales, and they may require you to change your credit card processor. First Working Capital requires no change in your credit card processor and does not interfere with your credit card stream.

Do I Have To Participate In Any Marketing Or Rewards Programs To Get Cash From First Working Capital?

No. We do not require you to sign up for any unwanted marketing or rewards type program that rely on a registered card platform or credit card transactions to receive working capital. Oftentimes, these types of programs have hidden costs involved like funding tax and tip, or they cannibalize your sales growth by simply repaying your cash advance back using existing customers. Why let some other company reap the benefits of your hard work? Our philosophy is simple. We offer you lower and more cost effective rates, with paybacks that are easy to understand, and provide you financing flexibility. Cheaper, simpler, more flexible financing is what we do!

How Do I Get The Money?

After your loan is approved, we typically wire transfer the loan funds directly to your business account. Disbursement options are available to pay vendors directly for equipment purchases. This enables you to free up cash for other important purchases and expenses.

How Does First Working Capital Get Paid Back?

Daily, weekly, or monthly payback options are available depending upon the loan. Every weekday we process an Automated Clearing House (ACH) debit from your authorized business checking account. This ACH debit remains the same over the term of your loan. You'll know what to expect and can set your budget accordingly. We don't require automatic renewals or continued commitments once your loan is paid, but if you choose to renew, the process is quick and easy.

How Do I Apply?

Apply now. Email or call us at (800) 725-1996 and you’ll speak to a First Working Capital finance professional in your area. From there, we can establish your loan needs and start the process. You’ll be asked to fill out a simple loan application form and provide 3 months of your most current credit card and bank statements to document sales. Once submitted, we will do the rest. Proceeds can be wired directly into your bank account. The whole process is easy and typically takes five to seven business days.

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