By Sam Johnson
Running a small business is a constant game of balancing cash flow, staying ahead of expenses, and jumping on opportunities when they show up.
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably run into a time when you needed capital fast—but didn’t want to wait around for a bank to review your life story.
That’s where Merchant Cash Advances (MCAs) come in.
Whether you’re in lawn care like I was when I started Sam Cuts Grass, or running a local shop, MCA funding can offer real flexibility when you need it most.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the main benefits of MCAs, especially for business owners who are still building their foundation but need cash to grow.
What is a Merchant Cash Advance?
A Merchant Cash Advance isn’t a loan. It’s technically an advance on your future revenue.
An MCA provider gives you a lump sum of cash up front, and in return, they take a small percentage of your daily or weekly sales until it’s paid back—plus a fee. It’s quick, flexible, and built for businesses with steady cash flow.
Now let’s get into the reasons why business owners like myself use them.
1. Fast Access to Capital
Banks take weeks. MCA providers take 24 to 48 hours.
When I needed to grab a new mower for a big commercial contract, I didn’t have time to wait. That’s when I learned just how fast MCA funding can hit your account.
If you’ve got a time-sensitive opportunity—equipment, payroll, marketing—this speed can make all the difference.
2. Flexible Repayments
Unlike a traditional loan with fixed monthly payments, MCAs take a percentage of your daily or weekly revenue.
So when business slows down (hello, rainy season), your payments adjust down too. You’re not locked into the same bill every month when cash flow dips.
For seasonal or service-based businesses, this flexibility is a game-changer.
3. No Collateral Required
MCAs are unsecured, meaning you don’t have to put up property, vehicles, or equipment to qualify.
When I first got started, I didn’t have assets to pledge. And that’s why this kind of funding is built for people like us—owners who are still growing and grinding.
4. Low Credit? Still Possible.
Banks love high credit scores. MCA providers? They care more about your revenue.
If you’ve had credit issues in the past but your business is bringing in steady deposits, you can still qualify for an advance. It’s one of the only options that’s truly accessible for owners in the real world.
5. Use the Funds However You Want
There are no restrictions on how you use the money.
You can invest in:
- Equipment
- Staffing
- Marketing
- Repairs
- Expansion
- Or just keeping the lights on
You know your business best. MCA providers don’t try to micromanage how you use your capital.
6. Higher Approval Rates Than Banks
If you’ve been turned down by banks or credit unions, don’t be discouraged. MCA providers approve a much higher percentage of applications.
Especially if you:
- Accept card payments
- Have regular deposits
- Have been in business at least 3–6 months
You’re in the ballpark.
Final Thoughts from Sam
Look—Merchant Cash Advances aren’t the cheapest form of capital, and they’re not for every situation. But if you’re running a business, generating sales, and need quick, flexible funding, they can be a powerful tool.
I used an MCA to scale Sam Cuts Grass from a backyard side hustle into something real—and now I help other business owners do the same.
Want help figuring out if an MCA is right for your business?
Feel free to reach out. No pressure, just real talk.
Sam Cut Grass 
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