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Banks are usually the cheapest source of money and the slowest, with the most paperwork.
✓ Checking what you qualify for does not affect your credit score.
At Merchant Fund Express, we compare structures on total dollars repaid and the rhythm of payments, and we publish our own terms so you can do the same.
Banks are usually the cheapest source of money and the slowest, with the most paperwork. Alternative lenders are faster and read your file differently, at a higher price. The honest question is which matters more right now.
| Bank loan | Alternative lender | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Usually lowest | Higher; often a factor rate or fees |
| Speed | Weeks to months | Same-day decision possible |
| Paperwork | Tax returns, statements, business plan | Bank statements and owner and business details |
| Who qualifies | Strong credit, profitable, collateral | Broader: reads revenue and bank activity |
| Best for | Planned, profitable growth | Speed, uneven revenue or thinner files |
A common pairing: These are illustrative figures to show the arithmetic, not an offer; your offer shows the amount, schedule and total cost before you sign.
| Item | Figure |
|---|---|
| Timeline | Start the bank application if you can wait 30 to 90 days |
| Bridge | Use a faster product only for the gap, and tell the bank |
Compare any offer on total dollars repaid and the rhythm of payments, not on a single rate. Use the factor-rate calculator and how much can I borrow to test your numbers. The minimum FICO is 500, and the better your credit, the better your offer.
Source: Merchant Fund Express. Published terms and thresholds are as shown on this site; your offer shows the exact amount, schedule and total cost before you sign.
Banks lend against strong credit, collateral and profits; many healthy small businesses do not fit those boxes yet. Merchant Fund Express shows the exact amount, schedule and total cost in your offer before you sign.
Yes. Many owners start the bank process and use a faster product for the immediate need. Merchant Fund Express publishes its terms and thresholds before you apply.
Apply with Merchant Fund Express: same-day decision, and applying takes a few minutes without affecting your credit score.
