What Is a Working Capital Loan? Definition & How It Works
Loan Types

What Is a Working Capital Loan?

Understanding working capital loans helps you choose the right financing to manage cash flow and support growth.

A working capital loan is financing designed to cover day-to-day business operations—payroll, inventory, rent, and other short-term expenses. Unlike equipment or real estate loans tied to specific assets, working capital loans provide flexible cash you can use for any business purpose. They're typically short-term (6-24 months) and help bridge cash flow gaps between when you pay expenses and when customers pay you.

How Working Capital Loans Work

Working capital loans provide cash to cover operational expenses when your business needs it most. Here's how they typically work:

1

Apply & Get Approved

Submit your application with financial documents. Most lenders approve within 24-72 hours if you meet requirements (600+ credit, $10k+/month revenue, 6+ months in business).

2

Receive Funds

Once approved, funds are deposited into your business account, usually within 1-3 business days. You can use the money immediately for any business purpose.

3

Make Payments

Repay the loan through fixed monthly payments over 6-24 months. Payments include principal and interest, typically deducted automatically from your business account.

Types of Working Capital Loans

Business Line of Credit

Revolving credit that lets you draw funds as needed, up to your credit limit. You only pay interest on what you use. Best for ongoing cash flow needs and seasonal businesses. Learn more about business lines of credit.

  • • Amounts: $25k-$500k
  • • Terms: Revolving (draw and repay as needed)
  • • Rates: 12-45% APR
  • • Best for: Ongoing cash flow management

Short-Term Term Loan

Lump sum with fixed monthly payments over 6-24 months. Best for one-time cash needs or specific projects. Faster approval than traditional bank loans.

  • • Amounts: $50k-$500k
  • • Terms: 6-24 months
  • • Rates: 8-35% APR
  • • Best for: One-time expenses or projects

Invoice Financing

Advance cash based on unpaid invoices. You get paid immediately instead of waiting 30-90 days for customers to pay. Learn more about invoice financing.

  • • Amounts: Based on invoice value (up to 90%)
  • • Terms: Until invoice is paid
  • • Rates: 1-5% per month
  • • Best for: B2B businesses with slow-paying customers

When to Use a Working Capital Loan

Working capital loans are ideal for these situations:

  • Seasonal Cash Flow Gaps: Cover expenses during slow seasons when revenue drops but costs remain constant.
  • Growth Opportunities: Take on new contracts, hire staff, or invest in marketing before revenue catches up.
  • Inventory Purchases: Buy inventory in bulk to get better pricing or prepare for busy seasons.
  • Emergency Expenses: Cover unexpected costs like equipment repairs, tax payments, or legal fees.
  • Slow-Paying Customers: Bridge the gap between completing work and receiving payment.

Pros and Cons of Working Capital Loans

Advantages:

  • Fast approval (24-72 hours)
  • Flexible use of funds
  • No collateral required (for smaller amounts)
  • Helps maintain cash flow
  • Can improve vendor relationships

Considerations:

  • !Higher rates than secured loans
  • !Short repayment terms (6-24 months)
  • !Personal guarantee usually required
  • !Not ideal for long-term capital needs
  • !Can be expensive if not managed carefully

Qualification Requirements

Requirements vary by lender, but generally you'll need:

Minimum Requirements:

  • ✓ 6-12 months in business
  • ✓ $10,000+ monthly revenue
  • ✓ 600+ personal credit score
  • ✓ No active bankruptcies

Helpful (Not Required):

  • ✓ 2+ years in business
  • ✓ $50,000+ monthly revenue
  • ✓ 650+ credit score
  • ✓ Positive cash flow

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a working capital loan and a line of credit?

A working capital loan is a lump sum you repay over time. A line of credit is revolving—you draw funds as needed and only pay interest on what you use. Lines of credit offer more flexibility for ongoing cash flow needs. Compare term loans vs lines of credit.

How much can I borrow with a working capital loan?

Amounts typically range from $25,000 to $500,000, depending on your revenue, credit, and time in business. Lenders usually cap loans at 10-30% of annual revenue.

How quickly can I get funded?

Most working capital loans are approved within 24-72 hours, with funding occurring 1-3 business days after approval. This is much faster than traditional bank loans, which can take weeks or months.

Do I need collateral for a working capital loan?

Smaller loans ($25k-$100k) are often unsecured, meaning no collateral required. Larger amounts may require a personal guarantee or business assets as collateral. Learn about personal guarantees.

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