Plain-English guide

Working capital for the gap between jobs.

Bridge payroll, fuel, and materials when revenue is lumpy but the work is real.

What it is

Working capital products are shorter-term funds for operations — not buying a specific machine. Think term loans, revenue-based advances, or draws on a line when you have one.

Who it fits

  • A restaurant bridging payroll between catering deposits.
  • A retailer stocking inventory ahead of a holiday push.
  • A services firm covering payroll between project milestones.

What many lenders look for

  • Many lenders look for about a year in business and roughly $8–10K+ average monthly revenue.
  • Many cite credit around 600–625+ for unsecured term options.
  • Clear use of funds and ability to handle payments from ongoing revenue.

Pros

  • Fixed purpose — keep the lights on and crews paid.
  • Can be faster than SBA when timing matters.

Cons

  • Unsecured options cost more than equipment-backed paper.
  • Daily or weekly payments on some products strain cash.

Questions to ask any provider

  1. What is the total payback, not just the rate?
  2. Are payments daily, weekly, or monthly?

FAQ

Working capital vs. line of credit?
A line is reusable; a term loan is one-time with fixed payments. Lines reward planning ahead.