Knowledge Hub

Expert answers to every question about business funding, merchant cash advances, equipment financing, and more.

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📚 Funding Basics

What types of business funding does Central Street Lending offer?+
Central Street Lending offers five core funding products: Merchant Cash Advances (MCA), Small Business Loans, Business Term Loans, Equipment Financing (up to $5M, ideal for construction and heavy equipment), and Business Lines of Credit up to $1,000,000. We also facilitate Merchant Processing enrollment through our partner Worldwide Merchant Services with rates as low as 0.25%.
What is the difference between a loan and a Merchant Cash Advance?+
A loan is a borrowed amount with interest repaid on a fixed schedule. A Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) is legally a purchase of future receivables: the funder buys a portion of your future revenue at a discount and collects repayment via daily or weekly ACH debits. MCAs use factor rates (not interest rates), have no fixed term, and approval is primarily based on revenue not credit score. They also fund in 24-48 hours versus weeks for traditional loans.
How much can my business qualify for?+
Funding ranges from $5,000 to $20,000,000+ depending on the product and your business profile. For MCAs, the amount is typically 1-1.5x your average monthly revenue. Term loans can reach $5M+. Lines of credit go up to $1,000,000. Equipment financing up to $5M per transaction. Our team will identify the maximum you qualify for across all products during your application review.
Is Central Street Lending a direct lender?+
No. Central Street Lending is a commercial funding broker, not a direct lender. We connect your business with our network of 100+ approved funding partners. This works in your favor — instead of one lender's criteria, you access a broad marketplace of options, maximizing your approval chances and optimizing terms. We only get paid when you get funded.
Does applying affect my credit score?+
Checking your eligibility does not impact your credit score. We perform a soft pull during initial pre-qualification. Hard credit inquiries may occur when a specific offer is formally underwritten by a funding partner, but this is always disclosed to you clearly before any hard pull. You will never be surprised by an inquiry you did not consent to.
What states do you serve?+
Central Street Lending serves businesses in all 50 U.S. states. While headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, our funding partners operate nationwide. We have funded businesses from coast to coast across virtually every industry.

💳 Merchant Cash Advances

What is a Merchant Cash Advance (MCA)?+
An MCA is a form of business financing where a funder purchases a portion of your future sales at a discount. You receive a lump sum upfront, and repayment is collected via automatic daily or weekly ACH debits from your business bank account. It is not a loan — it is a purchase of receivables, which means different regulations apply and approval is far more flexible than traditional lending.
What is a factor rate and how does it work?+
A factor rate is a multiplier applied to your advance to determine total repayment. Example: $50,000 at a factor rate of 1.35 = $67,500 total payback ($17,500 cost). Factor rates typically range from 1.10 to 1.55. Unlike interest, the cost is fixed regardless of how fast you repay — paying early does not reduce the total. Use our Funding Calculator to estimate your payments.
Can I get a second MCA while I have one outstanding?+
In some cases yes — this is called a second position advance. However, we take stacking seriously and only facilitate additional positions when it is financially sound. Having 3 or more existing advances is a significant concern. Be completely transparent on your application about existing advances so we can find the best path forward without over-leveraging your business.
How is an MCA different from a traditional business loan?+
Key differences: (1) An MCA is a sale of future receivables, not a loan. (2) MCAs use factor rates, not APR. (3) Repayment is automatic via daily or weekly debits, not monthly payments. (4) MCA approval is primarily revenue-based, not credit-based. (5) Funding can happen in 24-48 hours vs. weeks for bank loans. (6) MCAs generally do not require collateral.

🏠 Business Loans

What is a small business loan and how does it differ from a term loan?+
Both use fixed repayment schedules and stated interest rates. Small Business Loans at CSL typically range from $10,000 to $500,000 for growing businesses. Business Term Loans refer to larger financing from $500,000 to $20M+ for established businesses. Term loans usually require higher credit scores (600+) and longer time in business (12+ months).
What credit score do I need for a business loan?+
For MCAs: many partners consider 500+ FICO. Small business loans: 600+ typically required. Larger term loans: 650+ preferred. Equipment financing: more flexible since equipment serves as collateral. We work across a wide credit spectrum — even if banks have said no, there may be strong options available to you.
Do I need collateral for a business loan?+
For MCAs: no collateral required. For small business and term loans: requirements vary — some lenders require a personal guarantee, UCC lien, or real estate collateral for larger amounts. Equipment financing uses the equipment itself as collateral. All collateral requirements will be clearly disclosed before you sign anything.

🔄 Line of Credit

How does a business line of credit work?+
A business line of credit gives you access to a capital pool up to a set limit (up to $1,000,000 through CSL). You only draw what you need, only pay interest on what you draw, and can repay and re-borrow as needed — like a credit card but with much higher limits and lower rates. Ideal for managing cash flow gaps, payroll, supplier discounts, or unexpected expenses.
What is the maximum line of credit available?+
Lines of credit up to $1,000,000 are available through CSL. The actual amount depends on your annual revenue, credit profile, time in business, and industry. Most businesses qualify for 10-20% of their annual revenue as a starting point. Lines can often increase over time as your business grows and repayment history improves.
Is a line of credit better than an MCA?+
It depends. A line of credit is generally more cost-effective for qualifying businesses — you only pay for what you use and rates are lower than MCA factor rates. An MCA is better when you need capital in 24-48 hours or do not meet the credit or time-in-business requirements for a line. Our advisors will compare both options for you at no cost.

🚜 Equipment Financing

What types of equipment can be financed?+
We finance virtually all commercial and industrial equipment: construction equipment (excavators, bulldozers, cranes, dump trucks, skid steers), HVAC systems, commercial vehicles and fleets, restaurant and kitchen equipment, medical and dental equipment, manufacturing machinery, technology and IT equipment, and farm equipment. Both new and used equipment qualify.
How much can I finance for equipment?+
Equipment financing through CSL goes up to $5,000,000 per transaction, with terms from 12 to 84 months (7 years). The minimum is generally $10,000. For larger construction companies or fleets, multiple items can often be financed under a single facility. Use our Funding Calculator to estimate monthly payments.
Should I buy or finance equipment?+
For most growing businesses, financing makes more sense: (1) Preserve working capital for operations. (2) Equipment payments are often tax-deductible — under Section 179 you may deduct the full cost in the year it is placed in service. (3) Fixed payments make cash flow predictable. (4) You can upgrade equipment more frequently. Consult your CPA for specifics.

✅ Qualifying for Funding

What does my business need to qualify?+
General requirements: (1) U.S.-based business with an active business bank account. (2) At least 3-6 months in business (some products require 12+ months). (3) Minimum $10,000/month revenue for MCAs, $15,000+ for loans. (4) No open bankruptcy. (5) Owner is a legal U.S. resident or citizen. A low credit score does not automatically disqualify you — many of our MCA partners look primarily at revenue performance.
My business has bad credit. Can I still qualify?+
Absolutely. Many of our MCA and alternative funding partners evaluate your business primarily on revenue and bank statement performance, not credit score alone. Even with scores in the 500-580 range, many businesses qualify for meaningful funding. Key factors: consistent monthly revenue, healthy bank account (limited NSFs), and time in business. Do not let a bad credit score stop you from applying.
My business was just denied by my bank. Will you also deny me?+
Not necessarily. Banks have strict regulatory requirements that force them to decline many creditworthy businesses. Our alternative funding network uses different criteria — focusing on cash flow and revenue performance. Many of our most successful clients were turned down by traditional banks. Let us take a fresh look — a bank denial is not the end of the road.
Do I need a business plan or financial projections?+
For most products, no — especially MCAs and smaller loans. We primarily look at your last 3-6 months of bank statements. For larger term loans ($500K+), a more formal financial package may be needed, but our team will guide you through exactly what is required. We keep the process as simple as possible.

⚡ The Application Process

How do I apply and what is the process?+
Step 1: Complete our short online application (under 5 minutes). Step 2: A dedicated advisor contacts you within hours to review your profile and collect documents (typically 3 months of bank statements and a government ID). Step 3: We submit to best-matched funding partners. Step 4: Receive an offer — usually within 24-48 hours. Step 5: Review, sign, and receive funds — often same or next business day. No cost to apply, no obligation to accept.
What documents do I need to provide?+
For most applications: (1) Completed signed funding application. (2) Last 3-6 months of business bank statements (all pages). (3) Government-issued photo ID of the owner(s). (4) Voided check or bank letter. For larger amounts: last year's business tax return and proof of business ownership may also be needed. We tell you exactly what is required — no surprises.
How long does the process take?+
MCA products: application to funding within 24-72 hours. Term loans and lines of credit: typically 3-7 business days. Equipment financing: 2-5 business days. The timeline depends largely on how quickly you submit complete documents. The faster you provide accurate paperwork, the faster you get funded.
Is there a fee to apply?+
No. There is absolutely no fee to apply, no cost to check eligibility, and no obligation to accept any offer. We earn compensation from the funding partner only when a deal is successfully funded — our interests are fully aligned with yours. We only get paid when you get funded.

💰 Repayment

How does MCA repayment work?+
MCA repayment happens automatically via ACH debits from your business bank account. You choose between daily (business days) or weekly repayment. The debit amount is fixed and does not change based on sales volume. Repayment continues until the full total payback amount has been collected.
What happens if I cannot make a repayment?+
Contact your funding partner immediately — do not ignore the issue. Most funders prefer to work with you on a modified arrangement rather than have a default. Some offer hardship modifications or temporary payment reductions if you communicate proactively. Defaulting can result in legal action, collection activity, or bank levies. Always communicate early — surprises are far harder to resolve than honest conversations.
Can I pay off my funding early?+
For MCAs: yes, but early payoff typically does not reduce your total repayment since cost is based on a fixed factor rate. Some funders offer early payoff discounts — ask specifically when reviewing your offer. For term loans and lines of credit: early payoff can save significant interest and some lenders allow prepayment without penalty. Review prepayment terms before signing.

💻 Merchant Processing

What is the Cash Discount Program and how does it work?+
The Cash Discount Program allows businesses to eliminate credit card processing fees by displaying two prices: a standard price for cash customers and a slightly higher price for card customers (the difference covers the processing fee). Customers paying cash receive a discount. This is legal in all 50 states with proper signage — which our partner Worldwide Merchant Services provides at no cost. For many businesses, this reduces processing costs to near $0.
How low are your merchant processing rates?+
Rates through Worldwide Merchant Services start as low as 0.25% for qualifying businesses on interchange-plus pricing — significantly lower than Square (2.6-2.9%) or most traditional banks (2.5-3.5%). Your actual rate depends on industry, card mix, and monthly volume. We offer a free rate analysis — send us your last 3 months of processing statements to see exactly what you would save.
Do you work with high-risk businesses?+
Yes. Worldwide Merchant Services specializes in high-risk merchant accounts and has relationships with banks willing to work with businesses that traditional processors often decline — including certain healthcare, legal, subscription, and other high-risk industries. Contact us for a fast pre-approval assessment.
How long does it take to switch processors?+
Most switches complete within 3-5 business days. We handle all transition logistics — including checking if your existing hardware is compatible. If new hardware is needed, you may qualify for a free terminal or POS system worth up to $1,200. Switching can happen over a weekend to minimize disruption. No downtime required.

🏠 About Central Street Lending

Who is Central Street Lending?+
Central Street Lending is operated by Neovisionary Systems LLC, a Florida-based commercial funding company headquartered at 7901 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL. We connect small and mid-sized businesses across all 50 states with the right funding solutions. Our CEO Ennio Hadzic founded the company on the belief that opportunity should never be slowed by a lack of access to capital.
How do I contact Central Street Lending?+
Phone: +1 (727) 275-2370 | Email: Info@centralstreetlending.com | Address: 7901 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL | Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST. You can also apply online at any time and a funding advisor will contact you within hours.
How does Central Street Lending make money?+
We earn referral fees and broker commissions from funding partners when a deal is successfully funded. This means we only get paid when you get funded — our incentives are fully aligned with yours. There is no cost to you to apply and we do not charge upfront fees. The broker fee is typically paid by the funding partner, not deducted from your proceeds.
Is my information safe with Central Street Lending?+
Yes. All sensitive information is protected with 128-bit TLS encryption. We do not sell your personal information to third parties. Your information is shared only with funding partners as necessary to evaluate your application. See our full Privacy Policy for complete details.

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